Equal Opportunities Policy

Purpose and Commitment

At Countrifi Networks, we are committed to creating a fair, inclusive, and respectful working environment for everyone.

We value diversity and believe that our success as a business depends on the varied skills, experiences, and perspectives of our people. We are dedicated to ensuring that all employees, contractors, and job applicants are treated equally and without discrimination.

We do not tolerate unfair treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation, in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.

Our aim is to ensure that every individual is given equal opportunity in all aspects of employment — including recruitment, training, pay, promotion, and working conditions.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, agency workers, job applicants, and anyone representing Countrifi Networks in any capacity.

Our Principles

We will:

• Treat all individuals with fairness, dignity, and respect.
• Promote equality and inclusion throughout our business practices.
• Make employment decisions based on merit, ability, and business needs.
• Provide fair access to learning and career development opportunities.
• Maintain a workplace free from discrimination, harassment, and victimisation.
• Take any reports of discrimination or unfair treatment seriously and deal with them promptly and confidentially.

Recruitment and Selection

• Job adverts and descriptions will be written clearly and focus on essential skills and experience.
• All applicants will be assessed objectively against defined criteria.
• We will make reasonable adjustments to ensure applicants with disabilities can participate fully in the recruitment process.

Training and Development

• Every employee will have equal access to training, development, and advancement opportunities.
• Managers and team leaders will be supported in understanding their responsibilities under this policy.

Discrimination, Harassment, and Victimisation

We have a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination, bullying, or harassment in any form.
Examples of unacceptable behaviour include (but are not limited to):

• Offensive jokes or comments about protected characteristics.
• Excluding or disadvantaging someone because of who they are.
• Retaliating against an individual for raising a complaint or supporting someone else’s complaint.

Any such behaviour will be investigated and may lead to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal.

Raising Concerns

If any employee, contractor, or applicant believes they have been treated unfairly or have witnessed discrimination, they should raise the issue with their line manager or Company Director.

All complaints will be handled sensitively, investigated thoroughly, and resolved without prejudice or retaliation.

Monitoring and Review

Countrifi Networks will regularly review this policy to ensure it remains effective and compliant with UK employment law.

We are committed to continuous improvement in promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion across our organisation.

Responsibility

Overall responsibility for the implementation of this policy lies with the Company Director, who ensures that equality and inclusion remain a core part of our culture and everyday practice.

All team members are expected to uphold these principles in their conduct and interactions with colleagues, customers, and partners.