Policy Statement
Batten and Beam Ltd is committed to promoting equality, valuing diversity, and creating an inclusive environment for all employees, subcontractors, clients, suppliers, and the communities in which we work. We believe that fairness, respect and equal opportunity are fundamental to excellent craftsmanship, safe working environments, and positive client relationships.
We recognise our responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010 and are committed to ensuring that no individual is discriminated against on the basis of:
- Age
- Disability
- Gender reassignment
- Marriage or civil partnership
- Pregnancy or maternity
- Race (including colour, nationality, and ethnic or national origin)
- Religion or belief
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
We also oppose all forms of unfair treatment, harassment, bullying, and victimisation.
1. Purpose of This Policy
- To ensure all employees and subcontractors are treated fairly, respectfully, and with dignity.
- To provide equal opportunities in recruitment, training, and progression.
- To create inclusive working practices across all Batten and Beam sites and projects.
- To maintain a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and the values of our company.
2. Responsibilities
Directors
- Lead on equality, diversity and inclusion within the company.
- Ensure policies, procedures and training are in place and reviewed annually.
- Model positive behaviour and set expectations for all staff.
Managers & Site Leads
- Promote inclusive behaviour on all work sites.
- Prevent and address discrimination, harassment, or bullying.
- Ensure working conditions and practices support equal access and opportunity.
Employees & Subcontractors
- Treat colleagues, clients, and community members with respect.
- Report any incidents of discrimination or inappropriate behaviour.
- Support a culture of fairness and inclusion.
3. Recruitment & Employment Practices
Batten and Beam Ltd will:
- Advertise roles openly and fairly.
- Assess applicants based on skills, qualifications, and experience only.
- Make reasonable adjustments for individuals with disabilities.
- Provide equal access to training, development, and promotion.
- Ensure pay, conditions, and performance assessments are free from discrimination.
4. Harassment & Bullying
Harassment, bullying, intimidation, or discriminatory behaviour—whether verbal, physical, written, or online—will not be tolerated.
All complaints will be:
- Taken seriously
- Investigated promptly
- Treated confidentially
- Resolved fairly and in line with company procedures
Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken where necessary.
5. Inclusive Workplace Culture
We aim to create a workplace where:
- Everyone feels welcome and valued
- Different perspectives and backgrounds improve our work
- Heritage clients and community stakeholders experience respect and professionalism
- Employees can raise concerns without fear of retaliation
We recognise the importance of inclusion in heritage work, where we engage with diverse communities, historic environments, and a broad range of client needs.
6. Training
Batten and Beam Ltd will ensure all staff receive basic equality and inclusion awareness training, including:
- Understanding protected characteristics
- Recognising discrimination and unconscious bias
- Building respectful communication skills
- Creating inclusive job sites
Additional training will be provided where roles require deeper knowledge.
7. Monitoring & Review
This policy will be reviewed annually, or earlier if legislation changes or if improvements are identified. We welcome feedback from employees and clients to strengthen our approach.
