1.1 [Insert Organisation’s Name] promotes a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in all aspects of our business operations. Our commitment applies to all our dealings with officers, board members, employees, contractors, freelancers and volunteers. We require them all to adhere to this policy.  

1.2 We believe in equality of opportunity so that no person or group is discriminated against based on the protected characteristics defined in the Equality Act 2010: 

• Age; 

• Disability; 

• Gender reassignment; 

• Marriage and civil partnership; 

• Pregnancy and maternity; 

• Race (including colour, nationality, and ethnic or national origin); 

• Religion or belief; 

• Sex; 

• Sexual orientation. 

1.3 This policy sets out the steps we will take to prevent direct and indirect discrimination, harassment and victimisation. 

2.1 We will provide a workplace free from bullying, harassment, and unlawful discrimination, promoting dignity, respect, and inclusivity. We expect everyone to uphold these values and conduct themselves in a manner that supports our commitment. 

2.2 Any form of discrimination, harassment, or victimisation will be taken seriously and addressed through appropriate procedures, including disciplinary action for employees and formal complaint mechanisms for others we engage with. 

2.3 We train all our employees to ensure awareness and compliance with this EDI policy. Managers and leadership personnel will support EDI initiatives and monitor compliance. 

3.1 All employment decisions will be based on merit, skills, and qualifications, except where exemptions and exceptions are permitted under the Equality Act 2010 or other applicable legislation. Freelancers are not employees, but we ensure fair treatment in all contracts, selecting based on merit, skills, and qualifications. We encourage freelancers to follow EDI principles and, where applicable, have their own policies. Discrimination, harassment, or victimisation in any professional engagement is not tolerated.  

4.1 Anyone who believes they have been subject to discrimination, harassment, or victimisation in breach of this policy is encouraged to raise their concerns through our grievance procedures (for employees) or our complaints process (for everyone else). 

4.2 We take all complaints seriously and will deal with them promptly and fairly. Any breach of this policy may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment or contractual engagement. 

4.3 We do not allow retaliation against any individual who reports a concern or participates in an investigation related to EDI matters. 

5.1 We will monitor our workforce composition, employment practices and contracting processes to ensure compliance with this policy and to identify any areas for improvement. 

5.2 We will review this policy [annually] and update it as necessary to align with legal requirements and best practices in EDI. 

Signed and Agreed By: 
[Insert Name] 
[Insert Position] 
[Insert Date] 

In supplying the Services, the Supplier shall comply with our Mandatory Policies (being our business policies [attached], as amended by notification to the Supplier from time to time). 

Or if an employment contract: 

You shall comply with [the rules, policies and procedures set out in the Staff Handbook], a copy of which [has been given to you OR is available from [POSITION]]. The Staff Handbook does not form part of this agreement and we may amend it at any time. To the extent that there is any conflict between the terms of this agreement and the Staff Handbook, this agreement shall prevail.