EQUALITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and Anti-Bullying Policy

1. Introduction

Tech-Takeback Foundation is committed to fostering a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion, where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

We are dedicated to providing an environment free from bullying, harassment and discrimination, enabling all employees, volunteers and stakeholders to thrive.

2. Purpose

This policy sets out Tech-Takeback Foundation's commitment to promoting inclusivity and addressing unacceptable behaviour, ensuring that Tech-Takeback Foundation remains a safe, welcoming and supportive organisation for all.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, volunteers, trustees, contractors, partners, beneficiaries and any individual engaging with Tech-Takeback Foundation, whether on-site or remotely

4. Promoting Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Promoting Equality

● Treat all individuals fairly, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, or any other characteristic protected under the Equality Act 2010.

● Ensure equal access to opportunities, resources and support within the organisation.

Celebrating Diversity

● Recognise and value the unique contributions of individuals from diverse backgrounds.

● Actively encourage representation and participation from underrepresented groups across all areas of our operations.

Inclusion and Accessibility

● Create an environment where everyone feels welcome, valued and empowered to contribute.

● Continuously improve the accessibility of our facilities, communications and activities.

Education and Awareness

● Provide regular training to employees and volunteers to build understanding and respect for diversity.

● Promote awareness of unconscious bias and encourage inclusive behaviours.

5. Policy Statements by Characteristic

In addition to the general commitments set out above, Tech-Takeback Foundation makes the following specific commitments:

Age

● We will treat people of all ages with respect and dignity, ensure equal access to employment, training, development and promotion opportunities, and challenge discriminatory assumptions about younger and older people.

Disability

● We will provide reasonable adjustments to ensure disabled people have access to our services and employment opportunities, and challenge discriminatory assumptions about disabled people.

Race

● We will challenge racism wherever it occurs, respond swiftly and sensitively to racist incidents, and actively promote race equality.

Sex

● We will challenge discriminatory assumptions about sex and ensure equal access to employment, training, pay and progression.

Gender Reassignment

● We will support trans employees and volunteers who have, or are about to, undergo gender reassignment, protecting them from discrimination and harassment, and ensuring that use of our facilities is in line with current legal requirements.

Sexual Orientation

● We will take account of the needs of, and promote positive images of, the LGBTQ+ communities.

Religion or Belief

● We will respect and accommodate employees' religion or beliefs and related observances wherever possible.

Pregnancy and Maternity

● We will ensure that no individual is disadvantaged as a result of pregnancy or maternity leave, and that people are treated with respect and dignity throughout.

Marriage and Civil Partnership

● We will ensure that no individual is disadvantaged as a result of their marriage or civil partnership status.

Equal Pay

● We will ensure that all employees have the right to the same contractual pay and benefits for carrying out the same work, work rated as equivalent, or work of equal value.

6. Anti-Bullying and Harassment

Zero Tolerance for Bullying and Harassment

● Tech-Takeback Foundation maintains a zero-tolerance approach to bullying, harassment, victimisation, or any other form of abusive behaviour, whether verbal, physical or digital.

● Immediate and appropriate action will be taken against any instances of such behaviour.

Defining Unacceptable Behaviour

● Bullying includes repeated, unreasonable actions that intimidate, degrade or humiliate.

● Harassment includes unwanted conduct that violates an individual's dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment.

7. Reporting and Resolution

A clear, confidential process is provided for reporting concerns about bullying, harassment or discrimination, in accordance with the TTF-HR-001 Human Resources Policy and the Grievance Policy (TTF-HR-009), which sets out the full procedure and timeframes for investigation and resolution.

All complaints will be taken seriously, investigated promptly and resolved fairly.

Individuals who report concerns in good faith will be protected from retaliation or further harm.

8. Support for All Parties

Support and guidance will be offered to individuals affected by bullying or harassment.

Mediation or counselling will be made available where appropriate, to help resolve conflicts and rebuild relationships.

9. Our Commitment to Beneficiaries and Service Users

Tech-Takeback Foundation is also committed to ensuring that our services and charitable activities are delivered fairly and without discrimination:

● We aim to provide services to which all beneficiaries, clients and service users are entitled, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, offending past, caring responsibilities or social class.

● We will remove unlawful obstacles to accessing our services and facilities, and take steps to meet the needs of disadvantaged or underrepresented groups where appropriate.

● We have clear procedures that enable beneficiaries, clients, candidates for jobs and employees to raise a grievance or make a complaint if they feel they have been treated unfairly.

10. Roles and Responsibilities

● Management: Lead by example in promoting equality, diversity and inclusion, addressing unacceptable behaviour, and ensuring this policy is implemented.

● Employees and Volunteers: Treat others with respect, uphold the principles of this policy, and report any concerns.

● Partners and Stakeholders: Abide by Tech-Takeback Foundation's standards and contribute to a positive, inclusive environment.

11. Policy Compliance

All employees, volunteers and relevant workers are expected to comply with this policy and associated procedures.

Failure to follow this policy may result in appropriate action, in accordance with the Discipline and Grievance provisions of the TTF-HR-001 Human Resources Policy.

12. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed periodically and at least annually, or following:

● Significant operational changes.

● Changes to employment or other relevant legislation.

● Changes to organisational requirements.

● Lessons identified through reviews.

Policy reviews will be undertaken by the Board of Trustees.

Approval

This policy has been reviewed and approved by the Board of Trustees of Tech-Takeback Foundation.

Approved by:

Chair of Trustees

Board of Trustees