1. Policy Statement

HIREL is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion within the workplace. We strive to create a working environment where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, free from discrimination, harassment, and victimisation. We value diversity and encourage an inclusive culture where every employee, candidate, and customer feels valued and respected.

2. Purpose

This policy aims to:

• Ensure that all employees and job applicants are treated fairly and without discrimination, regardless of protected characteristics.
• Provide a framework for addressing complaints of discrimination or harassment.
• Promote a workplace culture that celebrates diversity and inclusion.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, job applicants, contractors, and anyone who interacts with HIREL. It covers all aspects of employment, including:

• Recruitment
• Training and development
• Promotion
• Pay and benefits
• Work conditions
• Termination of employment

4. Protected Characteristics

Under the Equality Act 2010, the following are the protected characteristics:

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

5. Types of Discrimination

We are committed to preventing the following forms of discrimination:

• Direct Discrimination: Treating someone less favourably because of a protected characteristic.
• Indirect Discrimination: A practice or policy that applies to everyone but disadvantages people with a protected characteristic.
• Harassment: Unwanted behaviour that violates an individual’s dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment.
• Victimisation: Treating someone unfairly because they have made a complaint or have supported someone who made a complaint about discrimination or harassment.

6. Responsibilities

• Management: Managers are responsible for ensuring that this policy is adhered to, that appropriate action is taken when incidents of discrimination or harassment occur, and that all employees are treated fairly.
• Employees: All employees are responsible for promoting an inclusive and respectful work environment. Employees should challenge discriminatory behaviour and report any incidents of discrimination or harassment.

7. Recruitment and Selection

HIREL is committed to ensuring equal opportunities in the recruitment process. We will:

• Advertise job vacancies in ways that reach a diverse pool of candidates.
• Ensure that the selection criteria are based on the skills, qualifications, and experience required for the role.
• Make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process for candidates with disabilities.

8. Training and Development

We will provide regular equality and diversity training for all staff to ensure that they understand the principles of equality and diversity and can apply them in their day-to-day work.

9. Complaints and Grievances

Any employee who feels that they have been subjected to discrimination or harassment should raise the matter in accordance with our grievance procedure. Complaints will be investigated promptly and confidentially, and appropriate action will be taken. Please email hello@HIREL.co.uk

10. Monitoring and Review

We will monitor the effectiveness of this policy through regular audits and feedback. Any changes to legislation or best practices will be incorporated into the policy as necessary.

Conclusion

At HIREL, we are dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. Our commitment to equality and respect for all individuals is fundamental to our success and culture.