Welcome to  the Equality and Diversity section of the website.

We hope that you are able to find the information you are looking for and see that we are working hard to address equality and diversity in everything we do.

If you cannot find the answer you are looking for, or would like to make a comment about these pages, please click here to contact the Diversity Manager.

Find out more about equality and diversity

Click here to read the YHN Equality Plan 2007 - 2010

Why have equality and diversity?
What do we mean by equality and diversity?
Our equality and diversity policy statement
External help and advice

YHN’s Strategic Independent Advisory Group

The Strategic Independent Advisory Group has a key role.

To provide a ‘critical friend’ for YHN in appraising our approach to equalities and diversity, especially at a strategic level on all new significantly changed policies, procedures, housing services and functions.

Membership of the SIAG is based on individual’s experience and knowledge of a wide range of diversity issues and not necessarily on the basis of being a formal representative of a particular community group. 

Role of SIAG members

The role of SIAG members is appraise YHN’s approach to equality and diversity by advising at a strategic level on policies, procedures and practices.  YHN aims for the SIAG to involve and include all sections of the community, who meet our requirements, who have specific knowledge, abilities or awareness of issues affecting those communities.  Our intention is to provide a fair and equitable delivery of services to all.

The SIAG will consist of people who reflect the diversity of the Newcastle area. 

The SIAG gives members the chance to make a positive contribution to the development of housing services at YHN within advisory and consultation processes.  It will be a unique opportunity to ensure that community issues and needs are addressed and that trust and confidence continues to be built between YHN and the diverse communities within Newcastle upon Tyne.

Membership of the Strategic Independent Advisory Group will be on a voluntary basis.  However, YHN will refund reasonable out of pocket expenses .  YHN is committed to meeting access requirements and arrangements we will provide any reasonable assistance to ensure that people can participate fully.  We are sorry to advise that tenants of YHN are not applicable to apply for membership. 

Dates of meetings:

3^rd March 2009
2^nd June 2009
8^th September 2009
8^th December 2009