Information from... The Directory of Social Change
DSC Language Guidance - Equity, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion - 2026 update
The DSC (Directory of Social Change) Wellbeing, Equity, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion working group has been putting together an inclusive language resource as part of their commitment to anti-discrimination and building a stronger, more inclusive charity sector.
They are delighted to now present their external language guidance to the wider charity sector for other organisations to use! No matter your organisation’s charitable objects or your own professional position, this guidance is for you if you are looking for suggestions and explanations of inclusive language.
Of course, this language guidance is not prescriptive nor exhaustive. It is a collection of recommendations of alternative language terms that may be more inclusive and appropriate.
Their language guidance looks at language that we may consider avoiding, language that they may consider using instead, explanations behind why DSC has made these suggestions and examples of the suggested language in context.
The resource looks at various protected characteristics and more:
- Age
- Disability and illness
- Gender
- International development
- Race and ethnicity
- Religion
- Sexuality
- Social and economic circumstances
As appropriateness depends on context, there is also a page about what to do when you have made a mistake. Being open to discussion and feedback is vital if we are to work towards an inclusive society. Likewise, it is important to be patient and allow people room to learn and grow; as language continues to change, we will review our language guidance every year.
For this reason, they have also listed other sources of information about inclusive language at the end of their language guidance because they understand that there are many different perspectives about what constitutes inclusive or discriminatory language. Reading these other sources may facilitate further understanding.
They have published their language guidance because they understand that many organisations who would like to become more inclusive may not have the time and resources to create their own templates and resources. DSC would like to help reduce the workload of these organisations by sharing their inclusive language guidance!
You can download the language guidance as a PDF from the link below. If you have any queries or would like to know more, please email cs@dsc.org.uk or research@dsc.org.uk.
