A review of the rehearsal space at Ghyllside School was carried out on 7th March 2007 to audit compliance with the Disability Act 1995 as applicable to Westmorland Orchestra activities on the premises, and a report was prepared. The school has a fully documented Disability Access Plan.

A review of the orchestra’s performance venue, Lakes Leisure Kendal, has also been carried out.

Westmorland Orchestra

Equal Opportunities Policy

1 Policy Statement

The Westmorland Orchestra is committed to the equal and fair treatment of all individuals, including members of the orchestra, professional performers and members of our audiences, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, colour, race, ethnic or national origin, religious or political beliefs or opinions. We will endeavour to make our activities inclusive and the Committee will maintain an awareness of possible discrimination in the planning of our activities.

2 Membership

Membership of the Orchestra shall be in accordance with the current version of the ‘Constitution of the Westmorland Orchestra’. (see section 3 ‘Membership and Subscriptions’). Subject to the above, no one shall be refused membership of the Orchestra, or of the Committee, or of our audiences, or be debarred from working with us, on any of the grounds listed in para 1 above.

3 Responsibility

The Chairman of the Orchestra is responsible for implementing this policy, through the normal management processes of the Committee. All members of the committee shall be kept fully informed of this policy and shall receive instruction in best practice where appropriate.

4 Marketing and Publicity

The society’s marketing and publicity material shall reflect this policy and project it positively, so that people from all sections of the community are encouraged to attend and participate.

5 Financial concessions

To encourage all socio-economic groups, the orchestra may, where appropriate, provide reduced membership subscriptions and ticket prices.

6 Premises and Equipment

All reasonable steps shall be taken to ensure that the premises used for concerts, rehearsals and meetings are chosen to provide suitable facilities for people with disabilities.

7 Service Provision

The orchestra shall make reasonable adjustments to the way it delivers services, so that disabled people can use them.

8 Monitoring and Review

The Chairman of the Society is responsible for monitoring the implementation of the policy at least annually and for a formal review of the policy every three years.