EDI in Practice: An Introduction

Practical EDI foundations that empower arts professionals to challenge discrimination and create lasting change.

Course Overview

The subject of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion can seem simultaneously incredibly simple, and overwhelmingly daunting. For arts professionals, theatre makers, producers, and fundraisers it is exceptionally important, now more than ever, that it is properly understood and applied. This session intends to provide a solid foundation in the core competencies related to EDI, alongside a host of necessary knowledge bases and key skills. In it, we intend to cover everything from the rationale behind EDI, to the legal landscape, to the best ways of challenging discrimination, in a highly interactive session which encourages delegates to apply the learning to their own experiences, organisations, and existing skill sets.

Course Outline

We aim to take a holistic approach, ensuring that the learning truly is catered to those present. Topics will include...

• The Rationale for EDI in Theatre
• Power and Privilege
• The Legal and Public Policy Landscape
• The Foundations of Unconscious Bias
• Challenging Discrimination

....and more.

Suitable For

This session is ideal for those looking to gain a solid understanding of EDI matters, those working in HR, fundraising, organisational development, or those simply wishing to improve inclusion within their professional settings.

Trainer

Emma Underwood is an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion practitioner, speaker, and trainer with over a decade's worth of experience in the sector. Her passion for putting theory into practice means that she will always ensure that the lived experience of the communities she serves is at the heart of her work. Through public speaking and training initiatives the message of equity and justice have reached thousands of professionals across sectors, including health and social care, the arts, and professional industries. These core principles are central to Emma's work and life. With experience working directly with arts organizations including Lowry, Global Grooves, and Thick and Tight, Emma is particularly passionate about inclusion in the arts.

Dates & Times

Thursday 3 September 2026 - 10am - 5pm.

Tickets

This is an in-person only course.

Lunch, tea, coffee and refreshments will be provided. Breaks will be provided.

EARLYBIRD - UK Theatre & SOLT Members can book this discounted rate until two weeks after the course goes on sale*.

If you would like to pay by invoice, please contact members@soltukt.co.uk.

*SOLT & UK Theatre reserve the right to close Earlybird bookings early depending on capacity and demand

Refunds and Cancellations

You can cancel up until 10 working days prior to the course, and receive a full refund (not including Eventbrite Fees, which are non-refundable). Any cancellations after this will not be refunded, but tickets can be transferred to a future course up to one year later.

View our full event Terms & Conditions here.

Accessibility Information

This course will be held entirely in-person - please see our website for information on visiting SOLT & UK Theatre, which includes access information.

• Attendees will be asked to tell us about any access requirements at the time of booking.
• Attendees who require a Carer or Personal Assistant to accompany them on the course can book a free Carer ticket by emailing members@soltukt.co.uk.
• Ramp access at ground floor level (there is otherwise one step into the building).
• Reception and conference rooms are located on the first floor of the building. This can be accessed by the lift or via 25 stairs. Accessible toilets are available on the first and second floors.
• Assistance Dogs welcome throughout the building and to all events - the nearest park is Victoria Embankment Gardens (by Embankment tube station -0.4 miles away).
• Hearing loop systems are available in the meeting and conference rooms.
• Regular breaks will be scheduled throughout the day.

Please email members@soltukt.co.uk if you have any access requirements, or if you have any questions at all.