1. Policy Statement

49digital Ltd is committed to promoting equal opportunities and creating an inclusive environment where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. We value diversity and recognise that a wide range of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enhances creativity, innovation, and performance.

We do not tolerate discrimination, harassment, or victimisation in any form. This policy applies to all employees, contractors, consultants, applicants, clients, suppliers, and partners.
 

2. Legal Framework

This policy is underpinned by the Equality Act 2010 and other relevant UK legislation. We ensure compliance with the Act’s protected characteristics:
 

• Age

• Disability

• Gender reassignment

• Marriage and civil partnership

• Pregnancy and maternity

• Race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin)

• Religion or belief

• Sex

• Sexual orientation
   

3. Scope

This policy applies to all aspects of employment, engagement, and service delivery at 49digital Ltd, including:
 

• Recruitment, selection, and promotion

• Pay, benefits, and terms of employment

• Training, development, and progression

• Flexible working and family-friendly policies

• Conduct at work and work-related events

• Termination of employment and after employment has ended

• Relationships with clients, partners, suppliers, and contractors
   

4. Responsibilities
 

• Directors and Managers are responsible for ensuring the policy is implemented, communicated, and monitored. They must lead by example and take action against breaches.
   

• Employees and Contractors are responsible for upholding the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion in their day-to-day work and interactions.
   

• HR / People Management Function (where applicable) will support monitoring, training, and handling of complaints.

 

5. Recruitment and Selection

• All recruitment decisions will be based on merit, competence, and business need.
   

• Job descriptions and advertisements will avoid discriminatory language and requirements.
   

• We will take steps to encourage applications from underrepresented groups.
   

• Selection processes will be transparent, fair, and consistently applied.
   

6. Training and Development

• All staff will have equal access to training, development opportunities, and career progression.
   

• We will provide training on equality, diversity, and inclusion to raise awareness and prevent unconscious bias.
   

• Managers will be trained to recognise and challenge discrimination or harassment.
   

7. Workplace Environment

• We will provide a working environment free from discrimination, harassment, and victimisation.
   

• We will make reasonable adjustments to support employees and applicants with disabilities.
   

• Flexible working practices will be considered where possible to support inclusion.
   

 

8. Harassment and Bullying

• Harassment, bullying, or victimisation will not be tolerated.
   

• Allegations will be treated seriously, confidentially, and investigated promptly.
   

• Disciplinary action may be taken against individuals found to have breached this policy, up to and including dismissal.
   

9. Monitoring and Review

• We will monitor workforce composition, recruitment, and progression data to assess the effectiveness of this policy.
   

• Feedback from staff, clients, and partners will be encouraged to identify improvements.
   

• This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if required by legislation or organisational change.
   

10. Complaints and Grievances

• Employees who believe they have been subject to discrimination, harassment, or victimisation are encouraged to raise the matter informally in the first instance, if appropriate.
   

• Formal complaints should be raised through the company’s grievance procedure.
   

• Complaints will be investigated promptly, fairly, and without detriment to the complainant.
   

11. Communication

This policy will be:
 

• Published on the company intranet/website.

• Shared with all employees, contractors, and partners.

• Incorporated into induction and training programmes.
   

12. Commitment

49digital Ltd is committed to continually improving our approach to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We believe that a diverse workforce and inclusive culture are essential to our success and to the positive contribution we make to our clients, communities, and society.