Culture & Belonging Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to promote a positive organisational culture where individuals feel respected, welcomed, valued, and able to participate meaningfully.

The organisation is committed to creating an environment built on respect, trust, collaboration, inclusion, and a shared sense of belonging.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all board members, directors, committee members, officers, employees, members, volunteers, contractors, consultants, and representatives of the organisation.

It applies to organisational activities, meetings, events, programmes, communications, and other interactions connected to the organisation.

3. Organisational Culture

The organisation seeks to foster a culture that:

Promotes respect, integrity, and professionalism.
Encourages collaboration and constructive communication.
Welcomes different perspectives and experiences.
Supports participation and meaningful contribution.
Promotes accountability and responsible conduct.
Provides an environment where individuals can raise concerns safely.

4. Belonging and Inclusion

Every individual should have a reasonable opportunity to participate in organisational activities and feel that their contributions are respected.

Individuals are encouraged to:

Listen to and respect different perspectives.
Include others in discussions and activities.
Avoid behaviour that unnecessarily excludes or isolates others.
Recognise and appreciate different experiences and contributions.
Address disagreements respectfully and constructively.

5. Respectful Conduct

The organisation expects individuals to interact with one another with dignity and respect.

Discrimination, harassment, bullying, intimidation, threats, hostility, or other inappropriate conduct are not consistent with the organisation’s culture and may be addressed under applicable policies.

6. Communication and Collaboration

Open, constructive, and respectful communication is encouraged across the organisation.

Individuals should:

Communicate professionally and respectfully.
Allow others reasonable opportunities to contribute.
Address disagreements constructively.
Avoid personal attacks or disrespectful behaviour.
Use appropriate organisational channels to resolve concerns.

7. Participation and Engagement

The organisation encourages members and stakeholders to participate in activities, programmes, committees, discussions, and initiatives where appropriate.

Leaders and representatives should seek to create opportunities for meaningful participation and encourage constructive contributions from individuals with different perspectives and experiences.

8. Reporting Concerns

Individuals who experience or witness conduct that is inconsistent with this policy are encouraged to raise their concerns through the organisation’s appropriate reporting channels.

Concerns may be addressed under the Grievance Policy, Whistleblower Policy, Non-Discrimination & Harassment Policy, or other applicable procedures.

9. Confidentiality and Protection

Concerns will be handled as confidentially as reasonably possible.

The organisation does not tolerate retaliation against individuals who raise genuine concerns or participate in an investigation in good faith.

10. Responsibilities

All individuals covered by this policy are expected to:

Treat others with dignity and respect.
Contribute to a positive organisational environment.
Support inclusive participation.
Communicate constructively.
Follow applicable organisational policies.
Raise serious concerns through appropriate channels.

Leaders and organisational representatives have an additional responsibility to model respectful behaviour and support a healthy organisational culture.

11. Non-Compliance

Conduct that breaches this policy may result in appropriate corrective or disciplinary action in accordance with the organisation’s applicable policies and procedures.

12. Related Policies

This policy should be read together with the organisation’s:

Constitution and/or Bylaws
Code of Conduct
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Policy
Non-Discrimination & Harassment Policy
Grievance Policy
Whistleblower Policy
Confidentiality Policy
Member in Good Standing Policy