Ethics policy

Purpose

This policy sets out our organization’s commitment to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and in full compliance with UK law. It provides a framework for expected standards of behaviour, decision-making, and accountability. By embedding ethical principles into our culture, we aim to build trust with employees, customers, suppliers, regulators, and the wider community.

Scope

This policy applies to:

All employees, contractors, agency workers, and temporary staff.
All suppliers, partners, consultants, and third parties engaged with our organization.
All business activities conducted in the UK and internationally, regardless of location or function.

Principles of ethical conduct:

Integrity and honesty

Employees must act with honesty, fairness, and transparency in all business dealings.
Conflicts of interest must be declared and managed appropriately (e.g., personal relationships with suppliers).
Fraud, corruption, or deception will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Please refer to our anti-corruption & bribery policy for further detail.
All financial reporting must be accurate, complete, and compliant with accounting standards.

Respect for people

We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all.
Harassment, bullying, or discrimination of any kind is prohibited.
We respect human rights and uphold fair labour practices, including freedom of association and fair pay.
We promote a culture of dignity, respect, and collaboration in the workplace.

Anti-bribery and corruption

We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to bribery and corruption.
Employees must not offer, give, solicit, or accept bribes or improper advantages.
Hospitality and gifts must be proportionate, transparent, and recorded in line with company policy.
Facilitation payments (small payments to speed up routine processes) are strictly prohibited.

Please refer to our anti-corruption & bribery policy for further detail.

Confidentiality and data protection

Employees must protect confidential information, including trade secrets, IP, client data, and employee records.
Personal data must be handled lawfully, fairly, and securely, in line with UK GDPR.
Breaches of confidentiality or data protection obligations will be investigated and may result in disciplinary action.
Cybersecurity awareness training will be provided to all staff.

Environmental responsibility

We are committed to minimising our environmental impact.
Employees should act responsibly in relation to energy use, waste reduction, and sustainable practices.
We will comply with environmental legislation and seek opportunities to improve sustainability.

Fair competition

We support free and fair competition and comply with UK competition law.
Anti-competitive behaviour, including collusion, price-fixing, or abuse of market position, is prohibited.
Employees must avoid practices that could damage the integrity of markets or mislead customers.

Responsible use of company resources

Company assets, including IT systems, vehicles, and funds, must be used responsibly and for legitimate business purposes.
Misuse of resources, including theft, fraud, or unauthorised personal use, is prohibited.
Intellectual property must be respected and protected.

Responsibilities

Board and Senior Management: Ensure ethical standards are embedded in strategy, culture, and governance.
Managers: Lead by example, communicate expectations, and ensure teams understand and comply with this policy.
Employees: Act in line with this policy, complete required training, and raise concerns if they witness unethical behaviour.
Suppliers and Partners: Required to comply with our ethical standards and demonstrate responsible practices.

Reporting concerns

Employees can report concerns confidentially through our whistleblowing procedure.
Reports will be investigated promptly, fairly, and confidentially.
Whistleblowers will be protected from retaliation.

Training and awareness

All employees will be required to read our Ethics Policy and can raise any queries with a member of the People Team.

Monitoring and review

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure compliance with UK legislation and best practice.
Internal audits will monitor adherence to ethical standards.
Feedback from employees, customers, and partners will be used to refine and strengthen our approach.

Continuous improvement

We recognize that ethics is an evolving area and commit to regularly updating our practices.
Emerging issues such as digital ethics, AI governance, and climate responsibility will be incorporated into our strategy.

Breach of policy

Breaches of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal.
Breaches by suppliers or partners may result in termination of contracts or partnerships.
Serious breaches may be reported to regulators or law enforcement authorities.