Why Inclusivity Matters To Us

Inclusivity isn’t just a value we talk about – it’s something we try to put into practice every day. Relationships are at the heart of everything we do, and because every person and every relationship is unique, we know that counselling must be accessible, respectful, and safe for everyone.

Understanding the Whole Person

When people come to us for counselling, they bring their full selves – their background, culture, identity, and life experiences. Inclusivity means recognising and honouring these differences rather than expecting everyone to fit into a single mould. For example, people in their twenties may be grappling with very different pressures than people in later life, whilst the challenges for a same-sex couple can be different to those in a heterosexual relationship.

By creating an inclusive environment, we make space for these realities to be seen and respected. That helps clients feel understood and supported, which is essential for effective counselling.

Breaking Down Barriers to Support

We know that there are many barriers that can stop people seeking help: stigma, fear of being judged, cost, accessibility, or even the assumption that services “aren’t for people like me.” Inclusivity means actively challenging those barriers.

At Relate Avon, this might mean offering reduced-cost sessions to people on lower incomes, ensuring we have physically accessible counselling rooms, or making sure our online services are safe and welcoming. It also means training our counsellors to be aware of issues like neurodiversity, gender identity, cultural differences, and disability. We want every client to know: you will be listened to, you will be respected, and you will not be turned away because of who you are or the challenges you face.

Building Trust in the Counselling Room

Counselling only works if there is trust. Clients need to know that they can speak honestly without fear of prejudice or misunderstanding. Inclusivity is central to building that trust.

That’s why our counsellors are trained to use inclusive language, to check their assumptions, and to keep learning about the different communities we serve. It’s also why we value feedback from clients – so that when we get something wrong, we can put it right and keep improving.

Reflecting the Diversity of Our Communities

We serve people across Bath, Bristol and beyond – areas rich in diversity. Our clients represent a wide range of ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, faiths, and life circumstances. If our services are not inclusive, then we are not fully serving our community.

We believe that healthy relationships are for everyone, and so our counselling must be for everyone too.

Our Ongoing Commitment

Inclusivity isn’t a box we can tick once and move on. It’s an ongoing commitment. At Relate Avon, that means continuing to review our policies, listen to our clients, learn from our staff and counsellors, and adapt as society changes.

We want anyone who reaches out to us – whether for relationship counselling, family support, or sex therapy – to know that they will be welcomed and supported, just as they are.

Because when counselling is truly inclusive, it doesn’t just help individuals and couples – it strengthens our whole community.

If you’d like to find out more, get in touch via our online form, or phone us on 0117 942 8444. We’re here to support you, just as you are.