Equality and Diversity Policy

Purpose

This policy sets out our commitment to promoting equality, valuing diversity, and ensuring fair treatment for everyone who works with or for our business. We aim to create an inclusive environment where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect, and where discrimination, harassment, and victimisation are not tolerated.

Our Commitment

We are committed to:

  • Providing equal opportunities in all aspects of employment, training, and service delivery.
  • Creating a workplace free from unlawful discrimination based on protected characteristics.
  • Ensuring decisions about recruitment, promotion, training, and development are based on merit, ability, and business need.
  • Encouraging a culture where diversity is recognised as a strength.

Legal Framework

This policy complies with the Equality Act 2010, which protects individuals from discrimination on the basis of the following protected characteristics:

  • Age
  • Disability
  • Gender reassignment
  • Marriage and civil partnership
  • Pregnancy and maternity
  • Race (including colour, nationality, and ethnic or national origins)
  • Religion or belief
  • Sex
  • Sexual orientation

We also recognise our responsibilities under the Human Rights Act 1998, Employment Rights Act 1996, and Health & Safety at Work Act 1974.

Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All employees (full‑time, part‑time, temporary, and fixed‑term)
  • Contractors, freelancers, and consultants
  • Job applicants
  • Clients, customers, and partners
  • Anyone representing the business

Responsibilities

Management Responsibilities

Managers and supervisors are responsible for:

  • Leading by example and promoting an inclusive culture
  • Ensuring this policy is communicated and understood
  • Addressing inappropriate behaviour promptly
  • Making fair, evidence‑based decisions in recruitment, development, and performance management

Employee Responsibilities

All employees are expected to:

  • Treat colleagues, clients, and partners with dignity and respect
  • Avoid behaviour that could be discriminatory, harassing, or offensive
  • Report concerns or incidents promptly
  • Support the business in promoting equality and diversity

Prohibited Conduct

We do not tolerate:

  • Direct or indirect discrimination
  • Harassment
  • Victimisation
  • Bullying or intimidation
  • Unfair treatment based on any protected characteristic

Any breach of this policy may result in disciplinary action.

Recruitment and Selection

We ensure that:

  • Job descriptions and adverts are inclusive and non‑discriminatory
  • Selection criteria are relevant, objective, and job‑related
  • Reasonable adjustments are offered to applicants with disabilities
  • Decisions are based solely on merit and business need

Training and Development

We provide equal access to training, development, and progression opportunities. We encourage all staff to develop their skills and contribute fully to the business.

Reasonable Adjustments

We will make reasonable adjustments to support employees or applicants with disabilities, ensuring they can perform their role effectively and safely.

Reporting Concerns

Anyone who believes they have been treated unfairly or witnessed inappropriate behaviour should raise the issue with their manager or a designated contact. Concerns will be handled sensitively, fairly, and without victimisation.

Monitoring and Review

We monitor our practices to ensure fairness and compliance with legislation. This policy is reviewed annually or sooner if legislation changes.