Diversity and equality

DIVERSITY AND EQUALITY ARE FUNDAMENTAL TO OUR SUCCESS

Here at Rothamsted we actively encourage and support diversity and equality. We understand that an organisation’s success depends on its ability to draw on the skills, understanding and experience of its people. The potential rewards of diversity are significant: an organisation that recruits its employees from the widest possible pool will draw on a wider pool of talent and experience, and create an environment where employees are valued and supported, and appreciate their colleagues’ contribution.

We are commited to the principles of the Athena SWAN charter which promotes and recognises advancement of gender equality: representation, progression and success for all.

DIVERSITY & EQUALITY POLICY

The organisation’s success depends on its ability to draw on the skills, understanding and experience of its people. The potential rewards of diversity are significant: an organisation that recruits its employees from the widest possible pool will draw on a wider pool of talent and experience, and create an environment where employees are valued and supported, and appreciate their colleagues’ contribution.

Every person has a personal responsibility for implementing and promoting the Equality and Diversity policy and principles in their day-to-day dealings with sponsors, colleagues, partners and collaborators. The policy applies to all permanent and temporary employees, visiting workers, students and workers provided by a third-party agency. The policy applies to all areas of the organisation: in recruitment, promotion, learning and development; and in the development of policies and procedures affecting employees directly or indirectly.

As an organisation it is aimed to eliminate unjustified discrimination, promote equality of opportunity and good relations between employees and encourage diversity throughout the workforce. Our aim is that our employees will be from many sections of society and that all employees feel respected and able to give of their best. The policy will promote equality and fairness for all employees, job or funding applicants and other stakeholders and will ensure there is no discrimination on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage, civil partnership, pregnancy, maternity, race, religion, belief, gender, sexual orientation, or trade union membership/activity. All forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination are opposed. All employees, whether part-time, full-time or temporary, will be treated fairly and with respect. Selection for employment, redeployment, promotion, or any other benefit will be on the basis of skill, aptitude and ability. All employees will be helped and encouraged to develop to their full potential. The talents and resources of the workforce will be fully utilised to maximise the performance of the organisation. A fair and transparent pay and grading system is operated where reward is based on objective criteria free from all forms of unfairness or bias. Where differentials cannot be substantively justified, appropriate action will be taken to address them.