Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Policy

 

GILS Construction

 

1. Policy Statement

 

GILS Construction is committed to promoting equality, valuing diversity, and creating an inclusive working environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

 

We recognise that a diverse workforce strengthens our business and improves the quality of our work. We are committed to ensuring that no individual is disadvantaged or treated unfairly.

2. Scope

 

This policy applies to:

  • All employees (permanent, temporary, and agency staff)

  • Subcontractors and their employees

  • Job applicants

  • Visitors and anyone working on our sites

3. Legal Compliance

 

We comply with the Equality Act 2010, which protects individuals from discrimination based on:

  • Age

  • Disability

  • Gender reassignment

  • Marriage and civil partnership

  • Pregnancy and maternity

  • Race (including nationality and ethnic origin)

  • Religion or belief

  • Sex

  • Sexual orientation

4. Our Commitments

 

We are committed to:

 

Equal Opportunities

  • Providing fair and equal access to employment, training, and promotion

  • Making decisions based on merit, skills, and experience

 

Inclusive Workplace

  • Creating a working environment free from discrimination, harassment, and victimisation

  • Encouraging respect, openness, and collaboration

 

Respect & Dignity

  • Treating everyone fairly and with respect

  • Challenging inappropriate behaviour

5. Responsibilities

 

Management

  • Lead by example and promote inclusive behaviours

  • Ensure fair implementation of this policy

  • Address any breaches promptly

 

Employees & Subcontractors

  • Treat others with dignity and respect

  • Not engage in discrimination, harassment, or bullying

  • Report concerns or incidents

6. Recruitment & Selection

 

We will:

  • Use fair and transparent recruitment processes

  • Avoid discriminatory criteria or practices

  • Provide equal opportunities to all candidates

  • Make reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities

7. Training & Awareness

 

We will:

  • Provide EDI awareness training where appropriate

  • Promote understanding of equality and diversity issues

  • Ensure supervisors are equipped to manage fairly

8. Harassment & Bullying

 

We operate a zero-tolerance approach to:

  • Harassment

  • Bullying

  • Victimisation

 

Any complaints will be taken seriously and investigated promptly.

9. Reporting Concerns

 

Individuals are encouraged to:

  • Report concerns to a manager or site supervisor

  • Raise issues confidentially where possible

 

All complaints will be handled fairly and without retaliation.

10. Monitoring & Review

 

We will:

  • Monitor the effectiveness of this policy

  • Review practices to promote equality and inclusion

  • Update the policy in line with legal or organisational changes

11. Consequences of Breach

 

Breaches of this policy may result in:

  • Disciplinary action

  • Removal from site (for subcontractors)

  • Termination of employment or contract

12. Review

 

This policy will be reviewed annually or when required.