Inclusion and Learner Support Policy

Introduction

At Inspira, we believe everyone should have a fair chance to learn. We welcome adult learners from all backgrounds and experiences and are committed to making learning accessible, supportive, and inclusive.

We understand that people may face barriers to learning and will work with you to help learning fit your needs.

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all learners receive the necessary advice, guidance and support in order to optimise their achievement on courses that are appropriate to their needs.

Barriers to Learning

A barrier is anything that makes learning harder. This may include:

• Learning difficulties or disabilities
• Physical, sensory, or long-term health conditions
• Mental health challenges or neurodiversity (such as ADHD or autism)
• Difficulties with reading, writing, English, or maths
• Limited access to technology or the internet
• Financial pressures, housing issues, or caring responsibilities
• Previous negative experiences of education
• Anxiety or low confidence
• Length of time since any training undertaken

You do not need a formal diagnosis to receive support.

How We Support Learners

We aim to make learning as accessible as possible. Examples of ways we may provide support include:

• Flexible pace of learning and attendance where possible
• Clear explanation, instruction and plain language
• Learning materials in different formats
• One-to-one, group, or in-class support
• Different ways to show what you have learned
• A safe, respectful, and non-judgemental learning environment

Any support will be agreed with you and reviewed regularly to ensure it remains appropriate.

Sharing Your Needs

You are not required to disclose any support needs, but it can help us to support you better. If you choose to do so, we will:

• Listen respectfully and without judgement & take your concerns seriously
• Protect your privacy
• Agree a learning support plan with you
• Review support if your circumstances change
• Advice, Guidance, and Progression

All learners will be offered:

• Course-specific information advice before enrolment
• An initial assessment and full induction
• Regular feedback on progress
• Information on next steps and progression routes
• Access to free, impartial careers guidance from a qualified Careers Adviser

Legal Framework and Responsibilities

Under the Equality Act 2010, a disability is a physical or mental impairment with a substantial and long-term effect on day-to-day activities. We also recognise that additional learning needs may be temporary.

This policy applies to all learners, staff, volunteers, and subcontracted provision. Where support needs cannot be met, alternative provision or referrals will be considered with the learner’s agreement.

Subcontracted Provision

Subcontractors must identify and support learners with additional needs. Where support cannot be provided, this must be raised with Inspira promptly. Learner progress and the impact of support will be monitored through contract management and quality assurance processes.

Respect, Feedback, and Complaints

Everyone involved in our charity is expected to treat others with respect and kindness. Discrimination, bullying, or harassment will be challenged.

Learners are encouraged to:

• Share feedback
• Request changes to support
• Raise concerns or make complaints if treated unfairly

Our Commitment

We regularly review our services to ensure they remain inclusive, accessible, and supportive, and we use learner feedback and achievement data to improve what we do.