Last updated January 2025

At Toot Sweet Marketing, we are committed to fostering a culture of equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of our work. We believe that a diverse and inclusive approach enhances creativity, builds stronger relationships, and drives positive outcomes for our clients, their teams, and the communities we serve. This policy reflects our dedication to ensuring fair and respectful treatment for all, promoting equal opportunities, and creating a welcoming environment for everyone.

Scope:

This policy applies to all interactions with clients, their staff, subcontractors, and any other stakeholders involved in Toot Sweet Marketing projects. It covers all areas of operation, including project delivery, partnerships, subcontractor engagement, and professional conduct.

Legal Framework:

Toot Sweet Marketing complies with all relevant legal requirements, including the Equality Act 2010, ensuring protection against discrimination based on age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.

Policy Statements:

• Zero Tolerance for Discrimination: We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying, or harassment in any form. All interactions and collaborations must uphold mutual respect and fairness.

• Inclusive Practices: We strive to embed inclusivity in all our projects and partnerships, ensuring diverse perspectives are valued and represented.

• Accessibility: We actively work to make our services accessible to everyone, considering the diverse needs of our clients and their audiences.

Glossary:

• Equality: Ensuring everyone has equal opportunities and is treated fairly, regardless of their background or characteristics.

• Diversity: Embracing and valuing differences in people, including their experiences, perspectives, and identities.

• Inclusion: Creating environments where everyone feels welcome, respected, and able to contribute fully.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Jessica Chambers: Responsible for overseeing the implementation of this policy and ensuring its principles are upheld in all activities.

• Subcontractors and Collaborators: Expected to adhere to this policy and promote EDI principles in their work with Toot Sweet Marketing.

• Clients: Encouraged to uphold EDI values in joint projects and ensure their teams align with these principles.

Recruitment Process:

While Toot Sweet Marketing does not recruit employees, we collaborate with subcontractors and clients on an equal basis. We select subcontractors based solely on their skills, expertise, and suitability for the task at hand, ensuring fairness and transparency in all engagements.

Training and Development:

Toot Sweet Marketing is committed to continuous learning. We regularly seek training opportunities to enhance our understanding and application of EDI principles, ensuring high standards in our work and partnerships.

Equal Pay:

We charge clients and pay subcontractors a fair and equal rate based solely on the job and task at hand, ensuring transparency and equity in all financial transactions.

Workplace Conduct:

All individuals working with Toot Sweet Marketing are expected to:

• Treat others with respect and professionalism.

• Refrain from discriminatory or harmful behaviour.

• Contribute to a positive and inclusive working environment.

Reporting Procedures:

Anyone who experiences or witnesses discrimination, bullying, or harassment is encouraged to report the incident to Jessica Chambers. All reports will be handled confidentially, with a fair and thorough investigation to ensure resolution. 

Equally, should discrimination, bullying or harassment be witnessed by any working on a client contract on behalf of Toot Sweet Marketing, they should report to Jessica Chambers who will communicate such witnessed behaviour with an appropriate person within the client’s company.  All reports and conversations about any incidences will be dealt with in a respectful, confident and professional manner.

Monitoring:

We will regularly review our practices and collect feedback from clients and collaborators to assess the effectiveness of this policy. Adjustments will be made as necessary to align with best practices and legal standards.

Communication:

This policy will be shared with all clients, subcontractors, and collaborators at the outset of any project. It will also be available on our website to ensure transparency and accessibility.

Review:

The policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it reflects current legal requirements, organisational goals, and industry standards.

Compliance:

Non-compliance with this policy may result in the termination of contracts or partnerships. We are committed to addressing breaches promptly and effectively to maintain our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.