If you have had a look through our website or heard about the work that we are doing, you may like to become a member of Equals. This page will hopefully answer any questions you may have about Equals membership. If this page has not answered your question, or you would like more information, please let us know (see contact details at the foot of this page).
Who can become an Equals member?
The simple answer is anyone who is willing to sign up to and adhere to the consitution of Equals.
Are there any fees or costs involved in becoming a member of Equals?
Absolutly not! We do not charge any form of subscription or administration fee. It is FREE to sign up with no catches. Equals is a not-for-profit orgainistation, we do not want to make money out of our members, we just want to provide a good service.
If I'm a member, how much work will I have to do?
As much or a little as you want to. Some members choose to get involved in the different activities we organise by helping us plan and undertake events or simply by coming along and showing their support at these events. Some members even choose to put themselves forward for election on to the Management Committee. Other members choose to stay more quiet and just like to hear about what we're up to and access our services when and if they want to. Of course we' would love for our members to be as active as possible but there is no pressure to take part in things unless a member wants to!
How do I become an Equals member?
You can apply online or print off and send a completed membership form to:
The Equals Membership Secretary, c/o Rural Community Council IW, 3 Langley Court, Pyle Street, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 1LA.
If you like us to send you a form in the post or you require a membership form in an alternative format just contact us by following the link at the foot of this page.
How do I become a member of the Management Committee for Equals?
Equals holds an Annual General Meeting (AGM) every year. Every member is invited by letter to attend. At the AGM, all members of the Managememt Committee will stand down from their posts and Equals members are invited to put themselves forward for election onto the Management Committee. Any member is welcome to put themselves forward for election, including those who have been on the committee previously. A vote will then take place. The members who receive the most votes will then form the new Management Committee of Equals. Becoming part of the Management Committee requires a commitment that being a regular member does not, for example attendance at Management Committee meetings.
The Chairperson and a member offer some thoughts on why you should join Equals.
Equals is a small group of English and Ethnic minority people who believe in a bigger picture of integration at every level. You may be stereotyped and treated with prejudice in every day life for your beliefs and appearances. Let us together remove the distance and mistrust but not the identity and traditions you care for, by learning and understanding each other. The sense of this group is very public and any member of public can become a member. We are desperately in need of you, your experience, ideas, and your skills to promote the aims of Equals.
- Shahzad Khan (Chairperson of Equals)
I make no apologies for quoting verbatim from The Equality Act 2006 which completely reflects my aspirations for the Isle of Wight (and the whole of the U.K. of course!). By belonging to Equals I think we can start to make the changes in our society in which
"Peoples' ability to achieve their potential is not limited by prejudice and discrimination, there is respect for and protection of each individual's human rights, there is respect for the dignity and worth of each individual, each individual has an equal opportunity to participate in society and there is a mutual respect between groups based on understanding and valuing of diversity and on shared respect for equality and human rights."
Why not join us and help us to begin to make this statement a reality. We need people of all abilities and none, the only criteria for joining is a belief in the above and a willingness to help.
- Jane McKean (Member)
As part of the aim to support equality and diversity on the Isle of Wight, Equals offers friendship groups for women and men of ethnic backgrounds.
For a real cultural diversity experience have a look at the current programme of events then come and join our women's group.
The group provides a welcoming place to women of both minority and majority ethnic background. Come and make new friends, get advice and find support. You can take part in fun activities and maybe participate in some training. The ladies of the groups have taken part in
- Carnivals and arts parade
- The Kite Festival
- Cultural and Diversity Events
- Art and Craft fun Activities
- Information Technology Training
- Food Hygiene Training
- Cooking Courses at the Isle of Wight College
- Culture Kitchen
- Back to Work Training
- Private Swimming Sessions
Our men's group is currently starting up with meetings in Newport.
So why not pop along to one of our groups and see what we are up to, we would love to meet you.
To find out more please contact Equals.
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