Equality and diversity

Commitment

Roughton is committed to making full use of the talents, skills, experience, and different cultural perspectives available in a multi-ethnic and diverse society, and where people feel they are respected and valued, and can achieve their potential regardless of race, colour, nationality, national or ethnic origins, sexual orientation, gender, disability, religious belief or age.

Roughton will comply with all equal opportunities legislation and regulation wherever it works, in the UK and internationally, taking into account cultural differences from country to country.

Aim

The aims of this policy are to ensure that:

• No-one receives less favourable treatment, on grounds of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, gender, sexual orientation, religion or belief, disability or age; or is disadvantaged by any conditions, requirements, provisions, criteria, procedures or practices that cannot be justified on any other grounds, or victimised for taking action against any form of discrimination or harassment, or instructed or put under pressure to discriminate against, or harass, someone on the above grounds.
• The organisation is free of unwanted conduct that violates the dignity of staff or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, offensive, or humiliating environment.
• Opportunities for employment, training and promotion are equally open to male and female candidates, candidates from all racial groups, candidates with or without disabilities, and candidates of any age, and of any sexual orientation, religion or belief.

• Selection for employment, promotion, transfer, training, and access to benefits, facilities and services, will be fair and equitable, and based solely on merit.

Ownership

We will take all necessary steps to put the policy into practice and make sure that it is achieving its aims. The policy will be regularly reviewed and displayed in appropriate locations throughout our offices. Appropriate training will be available to all members of staff on joining the organisation and as often as is necessary for them to fully understand the importance of adhering to the policy.

The policy was first approved following consultation with senior managers and staff, and will be regularly reviewed to ensure that any and all legislative changes are taken account of appropriately.

All members of staff have a responsibility to behave in accordance with this policy. Discriminatory behaviour, as outlined in this policy will lead to appropriate disciplinary action, whether it relates to colleagues, suppliers, clients or any member of the public.

This policy has been endorsed by, and has the full support of the Board of Directors.

Overall responsibility for the effectiveness of the policy lies with the Group Board director responsible for human resources.