Equal Opportunities & Diversity Policy

Policy statement

emu24 is proud of the diversity of its workforce and strives to ensure our employees are representative of our local communities and client base. We are committed to providing equal opportunities in employment and to avoiding unlawful discrimination, in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, prospective employees, previous employees and customers within the UK. Agency workers are directed to their respective agency for details of any Equal Opportunities policies.

Our principles

• Everyone should have the same opportunities for employment and promotion based on ability, qualification and suitability
• Our policies and procedures comply at minimum with local legal standards
• Our systems and processes are fair, equitable and free from discrimination
• We provide a safe and secure working environment
• We treat all employees fairly and impartially, and never tolerate harassment in any form

The law — protected characteristics

We ensure all policies comply with the Equality Act 2010. The nine protected characteristics are:

• Age
• Disability
• Gender reassignment
• Marriage and civil partnership
• Pregnancy and maternity
• Race
• Religion or belief
• Sex
• Sexual orientation

Discrimination on grounds of other personal characteristics not covered by the Equality Act 2010 (e.g. political affiliation) is also unacceptable at emu24.

Types of unlawful discrimination

Direct discrimination

Treating a person less favourably than another because of a protected characteristic.

Indirect discrimination

Where a provision, criterion or practice adversely affects people with a protected characteristic more than others, and is not justified by a legitimate aim.

Harassment

Unwarranted conduct related to a protected characteristic which violates someone's dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment. This includes sexual harassment.

Victimisation

Treating someone less favourably because they have alleged unlawful discrimination or supported someone to make a complaint.

Failure to make reasonable adjustments

Where arrangements disadvantage an individual because of a disability and the Company fails to consider or make reasonable adjustments.

Gender pay gap reporting

Where applicable under the Equality Act 2010 (Gender Pay Gap Information) Regulations 2017, emu24 will publish its gender pay gap data and take positive steps to address any identified gaps.

Grievances

If an employee believes they have been unlawfully discriminated against, they may use the Company's grievance procedure. Employees will not be penalised for raising a genuine grievance.

Breaches of this policy

Breaches will be dealt with in accordance with the Company's Disciplinary Procedure. Serious cases of deliberate discrimination may amount to gross misconduct resulting in dismissal.

Responsibilities

The Managing Director is responsible for implementing this policy. All managers must read, understand and follow the principles of this document, display this policy in all workplaces, and seek HR guidance as appropriate.