🛡️ Protected Characteristics

What Makes Us Special — And Protected!

These are the things about people that are protected by law, so nobody should be treated unfairly because of them.

🌈 The 9 Protected Characteristics:

1. Age Everyone should be treated fairly — whether they’re young or old.

2. Disability People with physical or learning differences have the right to be included and supported.

3. Gender Reassignment If someone changes their gender, they should still be treated with respect.

4. Marriage and Civil Partnership People who are married or in a civil partnership are protected from unfair treatment.

5. Pregnancy and Maternity Pregnant people and new parents have special protections at work and in public.

6. Race No one should be treated unfairly because of their skin colour, nationality, or ethnic background.

7. Religion or Belief Everyone has the right to follow their own religion or beliefs — or none at all.

8. Sex Boys and girls (and men and women) should be treated equally.

9. Sexual Orientation People should be respected no matter who they love.

🧒 Why It Matters at our School

“Everyone is at Mapplewells is different — and everyone deserves kindness, respect, and fairness.”

These characteristics help schools, workplaces, and communities make sure no one is left out or treated unfairly.