Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy

Introduction

Malvern International, including Language in Action, is committed to equal opportunities and will seek to promote the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion in all its dealings with employees, workers, job applicants, clients, customers, suppliers, contractors, recruitment agencies and the public.

We aim to ensure a transparent, professional working environment where all employees are treated with dignity and respect and reinforce Malvern International’s commitment to integrity for all employees.

Malvern International values and actively strives to have a diverse and inclusive workforce in a working environment free from discrimination.

Everyone who acts on behalf of Malvern International is required to adhere to this policy when undertaking their duties or when representing Malvern International in any other guise.

Equal Opportunities

This policy applies to everyone working for Malvern International and Language in Action including employees, agency workers, contractors, and students.

It is the company’s policy to comply fully with applicable local equal opportunities legislation. Malvern International promotes equal opportunities in employment and recruitment irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, political belief or affiliation and trade union membership.

Discrimination includes discrimination by association or perception.

Other Forms of Discrimination

Harassment

Harassment is unwanted physical or verbal conduct which has the purpose or effect of violating a person’s dignity or creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment.

The company seeks to provide a work environment that is free from harassment based on any protected characteristic and specifically prohibits such harassment.

Victimisation / Retaliation

All employees are entitled to raise legitimate complaints of discrimination or harassment and assist with investigations without receiving less favourable treatment as a result.

Victimisation is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

Inclusion

• Ensure you are always presenting the best of yourself at work and supporting colleagues.
• Understand the policies surrounding Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.
• Be receptive and open to differences.
• Understand the negative impact discrimination can have on colleagues and clients.
• Follow appropriate channels to challenge non-inclusive behaviour.
• Respect differences when dealing with clients and representing Malvern International.

Career Development

While positive measures may be taken to encourage under-represented groups, all job offers will be based solely on merit.

Everyone will have equal access to training and career-development opportunities appropriate to their experience and abilities.

Responsibilities

Senior Leadership

Will lead by example and take action to eliminate discriminatory behaviours and barriers.

Managers and Leadership Team

• Encourage and support equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Challenge unacceptable behaviours.
• Take firm action where unfairness or inconsistency exists.
• Treat all staff with dignity and respect.
• Recognise and value individual contributions.
• Create an environment that encourages positive attitudes towards equality, diversity and inclusion.

All Employees

Have a personal responsibility to treat everyone with respect, consideration and dignity.

Procedure – Complaints of Discrimination

Behaviour, action or words that breach this policy will not be tolerated and could be deemed an act of discrimination.

If you believe that you have been discriminated against, you are encouraged to raise the matter as soon as possible using the Grievance Procedure.

Allegations will be treated in confidence and investigated thoroughly.

Investigating Accusations of Discrimination

If you are accused of discrimination, the organisation will investigate the matter fully and provide you with the opportunity to respond.

If an investigation concludes that actions amount to discrimination, disciplinary action up to and including dismissal without notice may apply.

Policy Approval