The charter underlines the Council’s responsibility to promote these values for all of the area’s citizens when undertaking its responsibilities as a service provider and employer.
Councillors approved the publication of the charter at a recent meeting (11 November) of the Community Planning and Regeneration Committee.
Convener of the Committee, Cllr Chris Kane said: “I’m incredibly proud of our commitment to our citizens and that we recognise and celebrate the vast tapestry of backgrounds that make up our communities.
“Everybody who lives and works in Stirling is deserving of respect and equality of opportunity. We as a local authority and employer have a duty to those who rely on our services to ensure that equality is integral to our decision making. It’s up to us now to follow up the publication of the Diversity Charter with actions that back it up.”
The Diversity Charter states: “Stirling Council believes every citizen and employee, or prospective employee, has the right to receive fair and equal treatment, and is committed to promoting fairness, dignity and respect for all who live in, work in or visit the Stirling area.
“The Council is committed to equality of opportunity, elimination of discrimination and promotion of good relations between all people regardless of age, disability, ethnic or national origin, gender identity, income, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity status, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.”
Vice Convener, Cllr Scott Farmer said: “This is a significant statement of intent from Stirling Council reaffirming our commitment to challenge discrimination in our communities in all forms.
“We have a responsibility to all citizens, visitors and employees to ensure that we honour this commitment. Enshrining this in a Diversity Charter will ensure that we are held accountable for our future actions and that this will not be allowed to be a tokenistic gesture.”