Equality, Diversity, Inclusion

Independent Governance Group is dedicated to encouraging asupportive and inclusive culture amongst the whole workforce. Organisations arerequired under statute to adhere to the Equality Act 2010. There issubstantial research to show that diversity brings many advantages to anorganisation: increased profitability and creativity, stronger governance andbetter problem-solving abilities. Employees with diverse backgrounds bring tobear their own perspectives, ideas and experiences, helping to createorganisations that are resilient and effective, and which outperformorganisations that do not invest in diversity. It is therefore within ourbest interest to promote diversity and eliminate discrimination in theworkplace.

Equality means treating people fairly, to value and respectthem regardless of their natural characteristics. Diversity is about creating aculture which values individual differences and variety for the benefit ofsociety, individuals and organisations.

Our aim is to ensure that all employees and potential newrecruits are given equal opportunity and that our organisation isrepresentative of all sections of society. Each employee will be respected andvalued and able to give their best as a result.

This policy reinforces our commitment to providing equalityand fairness to all in our employment and not provide less favourablefacilities or treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender, genderreassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity orpaternity, race, ethnic origin, colour, nationality, national origin, religionor belief, or sex and sexual orientation. We are opposed to all forms ofunlawful and unfair discrimination.

All employees, no matter whether they are part-time,full-time, or temporary, will be treated fairly and with respect. WhenIndependent Governance Group selects candidates for employment, promotion,training, or any other benefit, it will be on the basis of their aptitude andability.

All employees will be given help and encouragement todevelop their full potential and utilise their unique talents. This should helpto ensure that the skills and resources of our organisation are fully utilisedand that we maximise the efficiency of our whole workforce.

Independent Governance Group’s commitments:

To create an environment in which individual differences and the contributions of all team members are recognised and valued.
To create a working environment that promotes dignity and respect for every employee.
To not tolerate any form of intimidation, bullying, or harassment, and to discipline those that breach this policy.
To make training, development, and progression opportunities available to all staff.
To promote equality in the workplace, which the Company believes is good management practice and makes sound business sense.
To encourage anyone who feels they have been subject to discrimination to raise their concerns so we can apply corrective measures.
To encourage employees to treat everyone with dignity and respect.
To regularly review our employment practices and procedures so that fairness is maintained at all times.

Independent Governance Group expects all employees to adhereto the equality, diversity and inclusion policy in operation and that they areobligated to comply with its requirements and promote fairness in theworkplace. To ensure this happens we bring this policy to the attention of allnew recruits and train employees on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion on anannual basis. The policy will also be available to all clients, advisors,suppliers and job applicants.

Our policy will be monitored and reviewed annually to ensurethat equality, diversity and inclusion is continually promoted in theworkplace.

Independent Governance Group encourage anyone, includingemployees and contractors to report, in good faith, any issue or concernsthrough our confidential whistle blowing procedure.

This policy is fully supported and approved by the Board.

April 2023

‍