Equality – Age

Christ Church welcomes diversity amongst its members, staff and visitors, recognising the particular contributions to the achievement of its statutory objects that can be made by individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences.

This section provides information about the specific ways in which we endeavour to ensure that Christ Church  is age neutral, and also provides a general overview of legislation relating to age discrimination and our response to that legislation.

Discrimination on the grounds of age is prohibited by the Equality Act 2010.
The Equality Act applies to employers and to providers of education, which includes those studying within Christ Church  and the University of Oxford. Staff and students are therefore both covered.

Discrimination (all types), harassment and victimisation are all prohibited.

The legislation applies to people of all ages; this means the young as well as the old are protected from discrimination on the basis of their age. Age discrimination can arise not just from what managers do, but also from how employees behave towards each other, and this behaviour may not be confined to the workplace. For example, if a group of young employees frequently go out for a drink after work but exclude an older member of their team this could in some cases amount to discrimination or harassment. We therefore encourage our members of staff to be as inclusive as possible.

The legislation allows that there may be some cases where age discrimination is legal, but only where the discrimination can be objectively justified as a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim. In addition, service related pay and benefits are permitted for periods of up to 5 years and these may be specifically justified thereafter.

Christ Church policies and practices which are relevant are as follows:

Guidance on personnel policy may be sought by staff from the Steward or, the Sub Dean in relation to the Cathedral. Students should contact the Senior Censor.

The University Equality and Diversity Unit (DEO) provides a network of harassment advisers and is also responsible for updating the Code of Practice on Harassment.

The University also offers training in best practice for those involved in the admissions process, recruitment and selection, management and teaching. In addition, courses are available for those wishing to plan their retirement.

The University website contains useful links to relevant legislation and external organisations. 

Specific advice is also available from the University's Occupational Health department, and from the Pensions office.