Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy

DoughGirl (www.doughgirl.co.uk)

1. Purpose

DoughGirl is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and equitable environment for all employees, customers, suppliers, and partners. This policy outlines our approach to promoting equality, celebrating diversity, and preventing discrimination in all aspects of our business.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

All employees (full-time, part-time, temporary, and contract)

Job applicants

Volunteers and interns

Suppliers, contractors, and partners

Customers interacting with DoughGirl

3. Our Commitment

DoughGirl is dedicated to:

Providing equal opportunities in employment and progression

Creating a workplace free from discrimination, harassment, and victimisation

Valuing diversity and recognising the benefits it brings to creativity, innovation, and business success

Ensuring fair treatment for everyone, regardless of background or personal characteristics

4. Protected Characteristics

We do not tolerate discrimination based on any protected characteristic, including:

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

5. Recruitment and Employment

DoughGirl will:

Ensure recruitment processes are fair, transparent, and based on merit

Use inclusive language in job descriptions and advertisements

Provide equal access to training, development, and promotion opportunities

Make reasonable adjustments for candidates and employees with disabilities

6. Workplace Culture

We aim to build a culture where:

Everyone feels respected, valued, and able to contribute fully

Differences are embraced and celebrated

Bullying, harassment, or exclusionary behaviour is not tolerated

Open communication is encouraged

7. Reporting and Complaints

Any individual who experiences or witnesses discrimination, harassment, or unfair treatment should report it to management or through the designated reporting process.

DoughGirl will:

Take all complaints seriously

Investigate promptly and confidentially

Take appropriate action where necessary

8. Training and Awareness

We are committed to ongoing education and will:

Provide equality and diversity training to staff

Promote awareness of inclusion across the organisation

Regularly review practices to ensure fairness

9. Monitoring and Review

This policy will be:

Reviewed annually or as needed

Updated to reflect legal requirements and best practices

Supported by data monitoring where appropriate to ensure effectiveness

10. Legal Compliance

DoughGirl complies with all relevant UK equality legislation, including the Equality Act 2010.

11. Policy Ownership

This policy is owned by DoughGirl management and applies across all areas of the business.