Equality and Anti-Discrimination Policy

Introduction

At Autumn Works Ltd, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace that upholds the principles of equality, fairness, and non-discrimination. As a leading creative agency operating in the UK, we ensure full compliance with relevant legal requirements, including the Equality Act 2010, and continuously work to create a respectful and inclusive environment for employees, clients, and partners.

Legal and Ethical Framework

Autumn Works Ltd operates under the following key legislation and guidelines:

  • Equality Act 2010 – Protects individuals from discrimination, harassment, and victimisation based on protected characteristics, including age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.

  • UK Human Rights Act 1998 – Ensures fundamental rights and freedoms, including protection from discrimination.

  • Public Sector Equality Duty (where applicable) – Requires fair treatment in projects involving public sector clients.

Equality and Diversity Commitments

To ensure compliance and promote an inclusive workplace, we implement the following measures:

1. Inclusive Workplace Practices

  • Ensuring equal opportunities in recruitment, promotion, and professional development.

  • Providing a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination, harassment, or victimisation in any form.

  • Encouraging diverse hiring practices and removing unconscious bias from decision-making.

  • Supporting employees with reasonable adjustments for disabilities or other needs.

2. Subcontractor and Supplier Compliance

Autumn Works Ltd expects all subcontractors and suppliers to adhere to equality and anti-discrimination laws, ensuring they:

  • Have a robust Equality and Diversity Policy in place.

  • Provide evidence of compliance with UK equality regulations.

  • Train staff on diversity, inclusion, and unconscious bias.

  • Report any incidents related to discrimination or unfair treatment.

3. Training and Awareness

  • All employees receive mandatory equality and diversity training.

  • Regular workshops and resources on inclusivity and unconscious bias are provided.

  • Leadership and management teams undergo specialized training to promote EDI principles within the company.

4. Monitoring, Reporting & Accountability

  • Regular internal audits and assessments to track EDI compliance.

  • Employees and subcontractors can report concerns anonymously through a designated reporting channel.

  • Annual EDI performance reviews and continuous policy improvements.

5. Non-Compliance & Corrective Actions

If an employee, subcontractor, or supplier fails to adhere to equality laws, the following steps will be taken:

  • Investigation & Review: An internal review of the reported issue.

  • Corrective Action Plan: An improvement plan must be implemented within a specified timeframe.

  • Disciplinary Actions: This may include warnings, retraining, or, in severe cases, termination of employment or contracts.

Conclusion

At Autumn Works Ltd, we strive to create an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. By maintaining high standards of equality and anti-discrimination compliance, we ensure a positive environment for employees, clients, and partners.

For further information or to discuss compliance matters, employees and subcontractors can contact our EDI Compliance Officer, John Wells, at info@autumnworks.co

Reviewed by:
Johno Verity
Director
Autumn Works Ltd
03/05/2024