Equal Opportunities Policy

PIVT. is committed to creating and sustaining a working environment which promotes fairness, dignity, and respect for all. We recognise the strength that comes from diversity and value the differences and individual contributions that each person brings to our organisation.

We aim to ensure that all employees, contractors, job applicants and other individuals who interact with us are treated fairly, equally and without discrimination in line with our values and shared behaviours.

Our commitments to achieve this are:

• To provide equality of opportunity and ensure that no individual receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.
• To create an inclusive workplace free from bullying, harassment, victimisation or discrimination.
• To promote an environment where individuals are able to thrive and achieve their full potential, supported by inclusive policies and practices.

What is covered under this policy?

This policy sets out PIVT.’s approach to promoting equal opportunities in all areas of employment including recruitment, training, promotion, pay, benefits, performance management, disciplinary matters and everyday working life.

This policy explains:

• What equal opportunities mean in the context of PIVT.
• The behaviours expected of all staff.
• What steps we will take if these expectations are not met.
• How to raise a concern or complaint under this policy.

This policy does not apply to grievances or whistleblowing, which are covered under the separate grievance and whistleblowing procedures.

Who does this policy apply to?

This policy applies to all PIVT. staff, including agency workers, self-employed contractors, consultants and applicants.

Any queries regarding the policy should be discussed with your line manager. Where the term “line manager” is used, it refers to the person to whom you directly report.

Roles and Responsibilities

Employees are asked to:

• Read and comply with this policy and promote its principles through their everyday behaviour.
• Treat colleagues, clients, contractors and others with dignity, courtesy and respect.
• Challenge or report any discriminatory, offensive or otherwise unacceptable behaviour they witness or experience.

Line Managers are asked to:

• Model inclusive behaviour and promote equality of opportunity within their teams.
• Ensure fair and consistent application of all people-related policies.
• Address concerns raised under this policy promptly, fairly and in line with procedure.
• Provide support where required.

What approach do we take to hiring and progression?

PIVT. ensures that recruitment, promotion and access to training are based on objective criteria and personal merit. Reasonable adjustments will be offered throughout the recruitment and employment lifecycle for individuals with disabilities or specific needs.

All staff involved in recruitment or development decisions will be trained in fair selection practices and unconscious bias.

What behaviours are expected in the workplace?

All employees are expected to:

• Foster a respectful and inclusive environment.
• Avoid behaviour that could be interpreted as bullying, harassment, or discrimination.
• Consider different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences when working with others.
• Respect the rights of all colleagues to work without fear or prejudice.

PIVT. is proud to support members of the Armed Forces community, including serving reservists, veterans, and their families. We are committed to ensuring that no employee or applicant is disadvantaged or treated less favourably due to their reservist status or military affiliation. This includes equal access to employment, development opportunities, and reasonable adjustments for training or mobilisation where required.

This commitment aligns with our broader values of fairness, respect and inclusion, and reflects our support for those who serve.

What happens if someone behaves in a discriminatory or inappropriate way?

PIVT. will take all allegations of discrimination, harassment, or victimisation seriously. Any employee found to have breached this policy may be subject to disciplinary action under the disciplinary procedure, up to and including dismissal.

We also recognise that being the subject of discrimination or exclusion can be distressing. We encourage anyone who experiences or witnesses inappropriate behaviour to report it at the earliest opportunity.

How do I raise a concern about equal opportunities?

If you believe you have experienced or witnessed discriminatory treatment, harassment, or a breach of this policy, you are encouraged to raise this with your line manager or a senior manager.

Concerns can be raised informally or formally under the grievance procedure, depending on the circumstances and preference of the individual. All concerns will be treated with sensitivity and in strict confidence.

Where a concern relates to whistleblowing, this may be more appropriately handled under PIVT.’s Whistleblowing Policy.

PIVT. understands that concerns about fairness, discrimination or exclusion can be challenging. If you need support, guidance or adjustments, please speak with your line manager.