Diversity, Equality and Inclusivity Policy

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Executive Summary

Employment Law Services (ELS) LTD is committed to embedding the principles of equality, fairness, and diversity throughout every aspect of our business. We recognise that a diverse workforce and inclusive service delivery not only reflect the communities we serve but also create a stimulating and productive environment. Our goal is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background or personal characteristics, is treated with dignity and allowed to reach their full potential.

1.2 Background

The purpose of this policy is to set out our vision for, and commitment to, diversity, equality and inclusivity in the workplace. It is designed to promote an environment that is free from discrimination and harassment, where all employees, clients, and partners are respected and valued. We will work collectively to ensure that our practices and procedures support and reflect these commitments across all areas of our operation.

1.3 Strategic Context

This policy supports our corporate strategy by aligning our operational practices with our core values. It underpins the following outcomes:

• Enhanced well-being and support for all employees, clients, and stakeholders.
• The delivery of high-quality services that meet the diverse needs of our community.
• A workforce that mirrors and respects the diversity of the communities in which we operate.

1.4 Links to Legislation

This policy is governed by and complies with the Equality Act 2010 and all other relevant UK legislation. The Act protects individuals from discrimination based on 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

In addition, our policy addresses behaviours motivated by homophobia and transphobia, ensuring that all employees can work free from verbal abuse, threats, or any form of aggression.

1.5 Aim

We aim to ensure equality of opportunity and foster diversity within Employment Law Services (ELS) LTD by:

• Treating everyone with fairness and respect.
• Providing equal access to opportunities, services, and employment conditions.
• Actively identifying and challenging discrimination, including intersecting forms of unfair treatment, such as ageism, sexism, racism, and other biases.

2. SCOPE

This policy applies to all employees, directors, and officeholders of Employment Law Services (ELS) LTD. It also extends to job applicants, contractors, agency workers, and any other external partners or stakeholders engaged in our operations.

3. POLICY CONTENT

3.1 Rights of Employees and Stakeholders

Everyone associated with Employment Law Services (ELS) LTD has the right to:

• Work and be treated in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, and bullying.
• Be given equal opportunities in hiring, training, development, promotion, and all other aspects of employment.
• Raise concerns about discriminatory practices without fear of retaliation.
• Access appropriate training and support to advance diversity, equality and inclusivity within the workplace.

3.3 Unacceptable Behaviour

Employment Law Services (ELS) LTD will not tolerate any behaviour that contravenes the principles of diversity, equality and inclusivity, including but not limited to:

• Racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic, or discriminatory language or behaviour.
• Any harassment or bullying related to a person’s protected characteristics.
• Acts of violence or abuse, including threats or physical aggression, directed at any individual because of their identity.

3.4 Complaints and Enforcement

Any concerns about breaches of this policy should be reported via the established grievance or complaints procedures. All complaints will be investigated promptly and confidentially. Failure to comply with this policy may lead to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or termination of external contracts.

4. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

4.1 Company Responsibilities

Employment Law Services (ELS) LTD commits to:

• Creating and maintaining a culture that values diversity, equality and inclusivity.
• Regularly reviewing policies, practices, and recruitment methods to ensure they are inclusive.
• Providing training and support to enhance awareness and competence in diversity, equality and inclusivity matters.
• Ensuring that all business operations and services are designed to meet the diverse needs of our workforce and customers.

4.2 Managerial Responsibilities

Managers and supervisors are responsible for:

• Implementing this policy within their teams.
• Monitoring the workplace for discriminatory practices.
• Promptly addressing any issues or breaches of the policy.
• Ensuring all employees are informed about their diversity, equality and inclusivity rights and obligations.

4.3 Employee Responsibilities

All employees are expected to:

• Understand and abide by this policy.
• Treat colleagues, customers, and partners fairly and respectfully.
• Report any suspected breaches of this policy through the appropriate channels.
• Participate in relevant training to promote an inclusive work environment.

4.4 External Partners

Clients, contractors, agency workers, and other external partners are required to:

• Abide by this policy as a condition of their engagement with Employment Law Services (ELS) LTD.
• Promote diversity, equality and inclusivity in their interactions with our employees and customers.

5. IMPLEMENTATION

5.1 Training and Development

We will provide regular diversity, equality and inclusivity training for all staff to ensure awareness of their responsibilities and promote a culture of inclusion. Training opportunities will include online courses, workshops, and seminars.

5.2 Communication

This policy will be disseminated to all employees via the intranet, included in the employee handbook, and made available on our public website. Ongoing communications will keep the workforce informed about diversity, equality and inclusivity initiatives and updates.

5.3 Monitoring and Reporting

We will routinely monitor the effectiveness of this policy through internal audits, employee surveys, and feedback from stakeholders. Reports on the progress and outcomes of our diversity, equality and inclusivity activities will be reviewed by senior management, and adjustments will be made as necessary.

6. RISK AND REVIEW

6.1 Legislative Risk

This policy complies with the Equality Act 2010 and other relevant UK legislation. We must ensure that our operations continually conform to these legal requirements and that our practices minimise any risk of discrimination.

6.2 Policy Review

Employment Law Services (ELS) LTD will review this policy at least annually, or sooner if legislative or operational changes require. All stakeholders will be consulted during the review to ensure that the policy remains relevant and effective.

Appendices

Appendix 1: Protected Characteristics

For this policy, the following characteristics are protected under the Equality Act 2010:

• 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

This Diversity, Equality and Inclusivity Policy reaffirms Employment Law Services (ELS) LTD’s commitment to creating a workplace where everyone is valued and respected. Compliance with this policy is mandatory for all employees and external partners, and we will take all necessary steps to ensure its effective implementation and ongoing relevance.

 

Document Control

Document Title	Document Owner	Document Author
DEI Policy	Managing Director	Gary H Sutherland

 

Change History
Version	Date	Comments
1.01	January 2021	Drafted and published
1.02	January 2025	Minor updates

 

Distribution

Internal: All staff. External: Published to website

 

Policy Review
Updating Frequency	Next Review Date	Responsible Officer
4 years	10-Jan-29	Managing Director

 

Policy Review and Approval
Name	Action	Date	Action / Circulation
Managing Director	Review of current policy	Jan 2022	No action required
Managing Director	Review of current policy	Jan 2023	No action required
Managing Director	Review of current policy	Jan 2024	No action required
Managing Director	Review and approval of updated policy	Jan 2025	Circulated to all staff; uploaded to company website