8D Gender Equality & Inclusivity Plan

At 8D, we believe in equal opportunities, diversity, and inclusion. As an active participant in Erasmus+ projects, we are committed to:

• Gender equality in all aspects of our work.
• Inclusivity regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic background.
• Creating safe, bias-free environments for learning, collaboration, and growth.

Our Gender Equality and Inclusivity Plan follows Erasmus+ guidelines and aligns with the EU Gender Equality Strategy 2020-2025, ensuring that inclusivity is not just a statement but an integral part of our work.

1. Gender Equality & Non-Discrimination Policies

8D upholds a zero-tolerance policy against discrimination, bias, and harassment. We ensure:

• Equal opportunities for all genders in leadership, project roles and decision-making.
• Fair recruitment and promotion practices, ensuring gender balance in teams.
• Gender-sensitive language in communications, documents, and project materials.

2. Equal Access to Opportunities

We ensure that gender, socioeconomic background, or disability will never be a barrier to full and equal participation in our organisation and projects.

Measures to promote equal access to opportunities include: 

• Annual ‘Personal Development’ meetings with employees to empower them in unlocking their full potential and advancing their professional growth.
• We proactively address challenges and cultivate an inclusive work environment, providing tailored support to meet individual needs, including those related to neurodivergence.
• Flexible working arrangements to accommodate caregiving responsibilities.
• We always inquire whether Accessibility Measures are needed when receiving groups.
• LGBTQ+ inclusion, ensuring respect for diverse identities and pronoun usage.

3. Prevention of Harassment & Bias

8D has strict policies to prevent, identify and address harassment, discrimination, and unconscious bias in our workplace and projects.

Safeguarding measures include:

• A clear code of conduct for Erasmus+ participants and staff.
• A confidential reporting system for discrimination and harassment.
• Educate staff on the importance of unbiased language, both in our internal communications and in our projects and products

4. Monitoring & Evaluation

To ensure continuous improvement, 8D monitors gender balance and inclusivity efforts across all Erasmus+ projects that we coordinate. 

How we measure progress:

• Annual feedback sessions on gender balance and inclusivity efforts with employees and project participants, using an online survey. 

5. Inclusive Communication & Representation

8D ensures that our branding, outreach and training materials reflect diversity and inclusivity.

Our key guidelines are: 

• Use inclusive, non-stereotypical imagery in publications and social media.
• Ensure gender-neutral language across all materials.
• Provide translation and accessibility options for non-native speakers and individuals with disabilities.
• Highlight diverse role models in entrepreneurship, STEM, and leadership.

6. Accountability & Contact Person

To ensure proper implementation and monitoring, 8D has designated a Gender Equality & Inclusion Officer who:

• Oversees the execution of this plan.
• Ensures compliance with Erasmus+ gender equality requirements.
• Acts as a point of contact for concerns, feedback, or recommendations.

Contact: Giel Hekkert | giel@8d.nl

Inclusivity is an ongoing process

At 8D, inclusivity is not just a checkbox—it’s a core value. By implementing and continuously improving this Gender Equality & Inclusivity Plan, we ensure that:

✅ Everyone has a voice and an opportunity in our Erasmus+ projects.
✅ Discrimination and bias have no place in our organisation.
✅ Inclusivity becomes a lasting part of our culture.

By actively following this plan, 8D not only complies with Erasmus+ requirements but also aims to set a new standard for diversity and inclusion in international projects.