The concept of diversity encompasses acceptance and respect, understanding that each individual is unique with individual differences. This is at the heart of Weaverham High School values Safe.Ready.Respect.
The Equality Act 2010 introduced 9 Protected Characteristics that are protected under law in terms of discrimination:
- Race
- Disability
- Gender Reassignment
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
- Pregnancy and Maternity
- Marriage and Civil Partnership
- Age
- Religion and Belief (this includes no religion or belief)
With the increasing need to challenge and address hate motivated/targeted behaviour among communities, in particular young people, this part of our website signposts parents to expert organisations who can provide information, advice and resources to support work relating to specific protected characteristics.
The information and resources offered aim to support parents with educating children and young people about respecting individual differences, exploring these in a safe, positive, and nurturing environment to help them better understand each other and move beyond ‘simple tolerance’ to respect, embrace and celebrate the diverse society they are growing up in.
Understanding the law and the risks
Incidents which involve acts of violence or hostility directed at people because of who they are, or who someone thinks they are, dealt with by police as a ‘Hate Crime’ or ‘Hate Incident’.
Any act which amounts to a criminal offence can be a hate crime if it was carried out because of hostility or prejudice based on disability, race, religion, transgender identity or sexual orientation.
Incidents related to other personal characteristics, such as age or belonging to an alternative subculture, are not classified as hate crimes under the law. Such incidents can still be reported and will be dealt with in accordance to the offence committed, but will not be prosecuted as hate crimes by the police and the Crown Prosecution Service.
When an incident is classified as a hate crime, the criminal justice system can impose a tougher sentence on the offender under the Criminal Justice Act 2003.
Weaverham High School does not tolerate Hate Crime and will work tirelessly to educate pupils in the importance of our core values.
The following websites can support you as parents in talking to your child about Diversity
Is an easy to navigate website that supports parents and young people access relevant information about how to talk to your child about LGBT Hate crime
Supports parents and pupils in understanding the impact of hate crime.
A parent and young person’s guide to considering the use of prejudicial language
Support, advice and guidance suitable for children to view with parents.