Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy

Walmsley Wilkinson Associates Limited (WWA) is committed to developing, maintaining and supporting a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in its workforce and in the delivery of quality executive and management recruitment services to its clients and candidates.

We recognise that it is essential to provide equal opportunities to all persons without discrimination.

This policy applies to the directors, employees and associates of WWA in the discharge of their duties. It also applies to suppliers and sub-contractors in our supply chain.

At WWA, we interpret the terms of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion as follows:

  • Equality is about creating a fairer environment where everyone can participate and has the opportunity to fulfil their potential.
  • Inclusion is about engendering active participation amongst people who because of their social identity, are generally less able to participate.
  • Diversity is about difference.

This Policy sets out how WWA will address the needs of people and communities who have protected characteristics as specified within Equality Act 2010 and therefore our position on equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of employment, including recruitment and promotion, giving guidance and encouragement to employees at all levels to act fairly and prevent discrimination on the grounds of sex, race, marital status, disability, age, gender reassignment, part-time and fixed term contract status, sexual orientation or religion.

We will be inclusive by engaging with all stakeholders fairly and delivering value through effective management of the recruitment process, in order to provide exceptional levels of service to our clients and candidates in helping to create diverse, inclusive and skilled workforces.

WWA will seek to embed equality, diversity and inclusion in all our activities. We consider equality legislation as setting minimum standards and we aspire to go beyond this, in order to ensure that it becomes an inextricable part of the whole system of the organisation.

We will approach our activities proactively by minimising the potential for discrimination, harassment and bullying, seeking out opportunities to promote inclusive development and taking necessary steps so that people with protected characteristics do not experience disproportionate disadvantage as a result of any of our service activities.

We will develop and implement recruitment and selection processes that are open and fair and that enable the selection of the best talent by providing relevant diverse shortlists of candidates for our clients’ opportunities. We recognise the great benefits in having a diverse workforce with different backgrounds, solely employed on ability.

Vacancy advertisements will display sufficiently clear and accurate information to enable potential candidates to assess their own suitability for the opportunity. Information about vacancies will be provided in such a manner that does not restrict its audience and will include only requirements that are necessary and justifiable for the effective performance of the job.

We will promote an environment free from discrimination, harassment, bullying and victimisation and tackle any behaviour that breaches this.

We will provide training support and encouragement to employees so that they can develop their careers and enhance their contribution to the organisation; whilst making all employees, clients and candidates aware of their responsibility for promoting equality diversity and inclusion in their work.

All employees should treat each other with dignity and respect whilst at work and all candidates and clients will also be treated with dignity and respect.

All complaints will be taken seriously and will be dealt with promptly and confidentially. If an employee is found to have breached the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy, they may be subject to disciplinary action.

We will undertake a formal review of this policy at regular intervals or after significant changes in our business.