1. Purpose

The purpose of this Gender and Equalities Policy is to ensure that Luna Hut provides an inclusive, respectful, and safe environment for all customers and staff, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected under equality legislation. This policy outlines our commitment to promoting equality and preventing discrimination in all aspects of our operations, including mixed-gender, male-only, and female-only sauna sessions.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, volunteers, and customers of Luna Hut. It covers all aspects of the business's operations, including the provision of services, employment practices, and the conduct of individuals on our premises.

3. Commitment to Equality

Luna Hut Sauna is committed to:

- Providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all individuals, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion, disability, age, or any other protected characteristic.

- Ensuring that no individual is discriminated against, harassed, or treated unfairly based on these characteristics.

- Promoting equality of opportunity in all aspects of our business operations.

4. Session Structure

To accommodate the diverse needs and preferences of our customers, Luna Hut offers the following session types:

- Mixed-Gender Sessions: Open to all customers, regardless of gender. These sessions are designed to be inclusive and welcoming to everyone.

- Female-Only Sessions: Reserved for individuals who identify as female. These sessions provide a safe and comfortable space for female customers.

- Male-Only Sessions: Reserved for individuals who identify as male. These sessions provide a safe and comfortable space for male customers.

5. Gender Identity and Inclusion

Luna Hut recognises and respects the gender identity of all individuals. Customers are welcome to attend the session that aligns with their gender identity. We are committed to:

- Respecting each individual’s self-identified gender.

- Providing training to staff to ensure they understand and respect gender diversity.

- Reviewing and updating facilities to ensure they are inclusive and accessible to all gender identities, including offering private changing areas where possible.

6. Addressing Concerns About Transgender Inclusion in Gender-Specific Sessions

We fully acknowledge that many individuals choose gender-specific sessions for specific reasons, including privacy, comfort, and safety, particularly if they have experienced trauma. We take these concerns seriously and aim to create an environment where everyone feels safe and respected.

- Supporting All Customers: While we are committed to inclusivity and welcoming transgender individuals into gender-specific sessions, we also understand that this may present challenges for some customers. We are here to support everyone and will work with customers on a case-by-case basis to find solutions that respect everyone’s needs.

- Accommodation Options: If a customer feels uncomfortable sharing a session with transgender individuals, we will offer alternative options where possible. These may include recommending different session times, providing access to private sessions, or arranging alternative sessions. We will also explore options such as trauma-informed sessions that offer additional support and sensitivity to the needs of customers who have experienced trauma.

- Balancing Inclusivity and Comfort: While we cannot exclude transgender individuals from gender-specific sessions, we strive to create an environment where everyone’s needs are respected and met to the best of our ability.

7. Anti-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment

Discrimination, harassment, or any form of unfair treatment based on gender, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic will not be tolerated. This includes but is not limited to:

- Unwelcome comments or jokes about someone’s gender or gender identity.

- Refusal to use a person’s correct name or pronouns.

- Any behaviour that creates a hostile or intimidating environment.

All incidents of discrimination or harassment will be taken seriously and addressed promptly in accordance with our complaints procedure.

8. Customer Responsibility

We expect all customers to:

- Treat others with respect and consideration.

- Adhere to the rules of the session they attend (e.g., respecting the boundaries of male-only or female-only sessions).

- Report any concerns about discrimination or harassment to a staff member immediately.

9. Staff Responsibility

Staff at Luna Hut are responsible for:

- Upholding the principles of this policy in their interactions with customers and colleagues.

- Responding promptly and effectively to any reports of discrimination, harassment, or other breaches of this policy.

10. Complaints Procedure

Customers and staff who believe they have experienced or witnessed discrimination or harassment are encouraged to report it immediately. Complaints can be made through the following channels:

- In-Person: Speak to a manager or supervisor on-site.

- Email: Send a detailed description of the incident to info@lunahutsauna.co.uk

All complaints will be handled confidentially and investigated thoroughly.

11. Review and Monitoring

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective and relevant. We will also monitor feedback from customers and staff to continually improve our practices.

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Luna Hut is dedicated to creating a space where everyone feels valued, respected, and safe. By adhering to this policy, we aim to foster an environment that supports equality and celebrates diversity in all its forms.