Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Policy

1. Policy Statement
At Thomas Charles Facilities & Maintenance, we are committed to promoting fairness, equality, and inclusivity in all aspects of our business operations. Discrimination in any form is unacceptable, and we fully comply with the Equality Act 2010 to ensure equal treatment for all employees, service users, and stakeholders.
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2. Commitment to Equal Opportunities
We enforce a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination, ensuring equal access and opportunities in:
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Recruitment, selection, and career progression
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Training and professional development
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Compensation and workplace conditions
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Supplier and contractor relationships
No individual will be treated less favourably due to gender, sexual orientation, race, nationality, ethnicity, disability, age, trade union activity, religious beliefs, political beliefs, marital status, income level, or criminal record.
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3. Definitions of Discrimination
To reinforce clarity, we define key terms under this policy:
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Direct Discrimination – Occurs when an individual is treated less favourably due to a protected characteristic.
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Indirect Discrimination – Happens when a provision, practice, or criterion disproportionately disadvantages individuals from a specific group.
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Harassment – Defined as "unwanted conduct that violates dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment."
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Victimization – Refers to "the less favourable treatment of a person because they have made or intend to make an allegation of discrimination."
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4. Workplace Responsibilities
To maintain an inclusive workplace, all members of Thomas Charles Facilities & Maintenance must:
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Directors – Ensure the enforcement of this policy and monitor compliance.
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Managers – Identify and eliminate discriminatory behaviours, promote equal opportunities, and provide appropriate support.
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Employees – Foster respect, uphold workplace dignity, and adhere to equality principles in daily interactions.
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5. Preventing Harassment, Bullying & Discrimination
We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to harassment, bullying, and victimization. Any breaches of this policy will be investigated and addressed through formal grievance and disciplinary procedures.
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6. Grievance & Reporting Procedures
Employees or service users who believe they have experienced unfair treatment or discrimination are encouraged to report concerns through our Grievance Procedure. All complaints will be treated with confidentiality and impartiality to ensure fair resolution.
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7. Training & Awareness
We ensure all employees receive regular training on equality, diversity, and inclusion to:
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Increase awareness of discriminatory behaviours.
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Recognize and report workplace harassment.
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Promote a respectful and inclusive environment.
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8. Commitment to Continuous Review & Improvement
We pledge to:
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Monitor risk areas to ensure compliance with equality regulations.
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Support employees in understanding their rights and responsibilities under this policy.
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Regularly review and enhance our policies to align with best practices and legislative updates.
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9. Policy Transparency & Accessibility
This policy is reviewed annually and made available to all employees. A full copy can be accessed via the HR department upon request.