Meeting the Needs of Protected Groups

A comprehensive course exploring the Equality Act 2010, protected characteristics, barriers faced by protected groups, inclusive policies, reasonable adjustments and sector-specific strategies for public services, education providers and private/third sector organisations.

Meeting the Needs of Protected Groups Training Course

Meeting the Needs of Protected Groups

This comprehensive course provides a clear understanding of the Equality Act 2010 and equips delegates with the knowledge and skills to meet the needs of protected groups across different working environments. The course explores barriers faced by protected groups, unconscious bias, inclusive policies, reasonable adjustments and sector‑specific strategies for promoting equality and inclusion.

Protected groups often face barriers that limit equal access, fair treatment and full participation in workplaces, educational settings and public services. This course helps delegates understand these challenges and develop practical strategies to promote inclusion, remove barriers and ensure compliance with the Equality Act 2010.

The programme is available in three tailored versions: • Working Environment (Private & Third Sector) • Education Sector (Schools, Colleges & Universities) • Public Sector (NHS, Police, Local Authorities, Children’s Services, Criminal Justice) Each version includes sector‑specific examples, scenarios and best‑practice approaches.

Reflective Practice

Delegates are encouraged to reflect on how their organisation currently supports protected groups, where barriers may exist and how policies, behaviours and systems can be improved. This reflective space helps participants recognise unconscious bias, understand lived experiences and build confidence in applying inclusive practices consistently.

Real‑World Scenarios

These scenarios illustrate common challenges faced by protected groups across different sectors.

Scenario 1: Unconscious Bias

An employee or student is overlooked for opportunities due to assumptions about their background, disability or age.

  • Recognising bias and stereotypes
  • Implementing fair decision‑making processes
Scenario 2: Barriers to Access

A protected group faces barriers accessing services, learning or workplace facilities due to inadequate adjustments.

  • Identifying structural and procedural barriers
  • Providing reasonable adjustments
Scenario 3: Discrimination Complaint

An individual raises concerns about discriminatory treatment or harassment within the organisation or service.

  • Responding appropriately to complaints
  • Ensuring fair investigation and resolution

Course Modules

These modules outline the core learning areas covered across all versions of the course.

Equality Act 2010

Understanding key provisions, duties and legal responsibilities.

Protected Characteristics

Exploring race, gender, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation and more.

Unconscious Bias

Recognising stereotypes and biased decision‑making.

Policies & Procedures

Developing inclusive processes that support protected groups.

Reasonable Adjustments

Providing accommodations for disability and other needs.

Conflict Resolution

Addressing discrimination complaints fairly and effectively.

Monitoring Equality

Evaluating initiatives and measuring progress.


Sector‑Specific Versions of the Course

This course is available in three tailored versions, each designed to address the unique challenges and responsibilities within different sectors.

Working Environment (Private & Third Sector)

Designed for private companies, charities and third‑sector organisations.

Sector‑Specific Scenarios
  • Barriers to promotion or development due to stereotypes or assumptions.
  • Inadequate adjustments for disabled employees affecting performance.
  • Discrimination complaints arising from workplace culture or behaviour.
Sector‑Specific Modules
  • Inclusive workplace policies and HR processes.
  • Supporting diverse employees through onboarding and development.
  • Addressing workplace discrimination and harassment.

This version is ideal for HR teams, managers and leadership in private and third‑sector organisations.

Education Sector (Schools, Colleges & Universities)

Designed for teachers, support staff, leaders and administrators.

Sector‑Specific Scenarios
  • Bullying or exclusion of students from protected groups.
  • Barriers to learning due to lack of reasonable adjustments.
  • Parents/carers from protected groups feeling unsupported or unheard.
Sector‑Specific Modules
  • Inclusive teaching and learning strategies.
  • Safeguarding and supporting vulnerable students.
  • Engaging parents/carers from protected groups.

This version is ideal for education providers seeking to create safe, inclusive learning environments.

Public Sector (NHS, Police, Local Authorities, Children’s Services, Criminal Justice)

Designed for professionals delivering public services and ensuring fair access for all individuals.

Sector‑Specific Scenarios
  • Protected groups facing barriers accessing public services.
  • Bias influencing decision‑making in frontline or casework situations.
  • Discrimination complaints relating to service delivery or treatment.
Sector‑Specific Modules
  • Fair and unbiased service delivery.
  • Inclusive communication and engagement strategies.
  • Policies addressing discrimination within public bodies.

This version is ideal for public service teams committed to equitable, bias‑free service delivery.

Proposed Outcomes

  • Clear understanding of the Equality Act 2010.
  • Ability to recognise protected characteristics and associated barriers.
  • Confidence in developing inclusive policies and procedures.
  • Skills to provide reasonable adjustments and accommodations.
  • Improved ability to resolve discrimination complaints.
  • Commitment to fostering an inclusive organisational culture.

Course Content

  • Introduction to the Equality Act 2010
  • Protected characteristics
  • Challenges faced by protected groups
  • Unconscious bias and stereotypes
  • Inclusive policies and procedures
  • Reasonable adjustments
  • Inclusive recruitment and selection
  • Diversity and inclusion training
  • Conflict resolution and discrimination complaints
  • Monitoring equality initiatives

Course Structure and Cost

All our courses are tailored to ensure the training reflects your organisation’s goals and priorities.

Delivery Options

The course can be delivered face to face or online, via Zoom or Teams.

Delegate Numbers
  • Online sessions: maximum of 15 delegates
  • Face-to-face sessions: recommended maximum of 20 delegates

Course Fees

  • £595 for a half-day session
  • £895 for a full-day session
  • Two half-day sessions delivered on the same day are charged at the full-day rate

Please note: the half-day rate is not always available for face-to-face sessions.

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