Equality and Diversity Policy

1. Purpose and Commitment

At Anrich Vets and Northwest Referrals, we are committed to creating and maintaining a workplace and environment that is inclusive, respectful, and free from discrimination. Our goal is to ensure that everyone—our staff, clients, and visitors—feels valued, respected, and supported. We recognize the importance of diversity in enriching our workplace and providing high-quality care for all our patients and clients.

This policy outlines our commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion, and provides a framework for the actions we will take to eliminate discrimination, harassment, and bias in all aspects of our practice.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, volunteers, contractors, and clients of Anrich Vets and Northwest Referrals. It covers all areas of our practice, including recruitment, employment, training, client care, and interactions within the community.

3. Our Values

We are dedicated to upholding the following core values:

• Respect: Treating all individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of their background, race, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, religion, or any other characteristic.

• Fairness: Ensuring equal opportunities and fair treatment for all staff and clients, and addressing any form of bias or discrimination.

• Inclusivity: Embracing the diversity of our workforce, clients, and community and ensuring that everyone feels welcomed and valued.

• Integrity: Acting with honesty, transparency, and a commitment to ethical practices in all aspects of our work.

4. Non-Discrimination and Equal Opportunity

We are committed to providing equal opportunities in all aspects of employment and client care. We will not tolerate discrimination, harassment, or bullying based on:

• Age

• Disability

• Gender, gender identity, and gender expression

• Marital or civil partnership status

• Pregnancy and maternity

• Race, ethnicity, and nationality

• Religion or belief

• Sexual orientation

• Any other characteristic protected by law

This applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, remuneration, and termination. It also applies to the services we provide to our clients and their animals.

5. Harassment and Bullying

We have a zero-tolerance policy towards harassment and bullying in any form. This includes unwanted behaviour or conduct that creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, or offensive environment for any individual. Harassment or bullying will not be tolerated, and anyone found to be engaging in such behaviour may face disciplinary action, including dismissal.

6. Training and Development

We are committed to providing training and professional development opportunities that promote diversity and inclusion. All staff will be given the opportunity to attend relevant training sessions to ensure they understand and uphold the principles of equality and diversity in the workplace.

7. Accessibility and Reasonable Adjustments

We are committed to making our veterinary practice accessible to all. This includes providing reasonable adjustments to our facilities, services, and work practices to ensure that individuals with disabilities can fully participate in the workplace and receive the veterinary care they need. We will work with staff and clients to make appropriate adjustments as necessary.

8. Client Care and Inclusivity

We aim to provide high-quality veterinary care to all clients, regardless of their background. We will ensure that all clients receive respectful, professional, and compassionate care for their animals, and we will communicate with them in ways that are inclusive and respectful of their individual needs and preferences.

9. Monitoring and Accountability

We will regularly review and monitor our practices and policies to ensure that we are meeting our equality and diversity objectives. We encourage open dialogue about equality and diversity, and we are committed to addressing any concerns that arise. All staff members are responsible for promoting and adhering to this policy.

10. Reporting and Grievances

Any individual who feels they have been subject to discrimination, harassment, or any violation of this policy should report the matter promptly to their line manager, practice owner, or designated equality officer. All complaints will be taken seriously and investigated in a fair, transparent, and confidential manner.

11. Conclusion

At Anrich Vets and Northwest Referrals, we believe that fostering an environment of equality and diversity benefits everyone—staff, clients, and the community. By adhering to this policy, we can continue to offer an inclusive, professional, and compassionate service that meets the diverse needs of our patients and their owners.

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