Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy

Val-U Blinds Ltd

1. Policy Statement

Val-U Blinds Ltd is fully committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion across our workforce and in all areas of our business operations.
We believe that every employee, customer, and supplier deserves to be treated with dignity, fairness and respect, regardless of background or personal characteristics.

We aim to create a working environment that reflects the diversity of our customers and communities, where every individual feels valued, supported and able to achieve their full potential.

2. Purpose of This Policy

The purpose of this policy is to:

  1. Ensure equality, fairness and respect for all in our employment, whether temporary, part-time or full-time.
  2. Prevent unlawful discrimination in accordance with the Equality Act 2010, based on the following protected characteristics:
    • Age
    • Disability
    • Gender reassignment
    • Marriage and civil partnership
    • Pregnancy and maternity
    • Race (including colour, nationality, and ethnic or national origin)
    • Religion or belief
    • Sex
    • Sexual orientation
  3. Oppose and avoid all forms of unlawful discrimination, including in:
    • Pay and benefits
    • Employment terms and conditions
    • Recruitment, promotion and training
    • Redundancy, dismissal and disciplinary procedures
    • Requests for flexible working
    • Provision of goods and services

3. Our Commitments

Val-U Blinds Ltd commits to:

  1. Encourage equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace because it is good practice, makes business sense, and enhances our service to customers.
  2. Provide a working environment free from bullying, harassment, victimisation and unlawful discrimination, where all staff are treated with dignity and respect.
  3. Recognise and value individual differences and the unique contribution each person makes to our business.
  4. Train and support managers and employees to understand their rights and responsibilities under this policy.
  5. Handle all complaints of bullying, harassment or discrimination seriously, investigating and taking appropriate disciplinary action where necessary.
  6. Offer equal access to training, development and promotion opportunities so all employees can achieve their potential.
  7. Review and update employment practices and this policy regularly to ensure they remain fair, relevant and compliant with legislation.
  8. Monitor diversity across our workforce to measure progress and identify any areas for improvement.

4. Responsibilities

All employees are expected to:

  • Treat colleagues, customers, suppliers, and members of the public with respect.
  • Support and uphold the principles of equality, diversity and inclusion.
  • Report any incidents of discrimination, harassment or bullying they experience or witness.

Managers have additional responsibility to:

  • Lead by example in promoting fairness and inclusion.
  • Address inappropriate behaviour promptly and effectively.
  • Support team members in line with this policy and company values.

5. Dealing With Breaches of This Policy

Breaches of this policy, including acts of discrimination, harassment or victimisation, will be treated as misconduct and dealt with under our disciplinary procedures.
Serious breaches may amount to gross misconduct and could result in dismissal.

Staff or customers who believe they have been treated unfairly are encouraged to raise their concerns through our grievance procedure. All complaints will be handled sensitively and in confidence.

6. Monitoring and Review

Val-U Blinds Ltd will:

  • Review this policy annually and whenever there are significant changes in legislation.
  • Monitor workforce data (where appropriate) to ensure fairness and equal opportunity.
  • Take action where monitoring indicates improvements can be made.

This policy is fully supported by senior management and applies to all employees, contractors, suppliers and customers.