Introduction
We are committed to a diversified workforce because we value and celebrate all diversity. We welcome people from all backgrounds and believe our team should be representative of society and the audiences we communicate with. Diversity is an essential part of encouraging innovation and creativity within the agency.
The Ripple Effect began trading during a time of significant progress for diversity and inclusion in the PR sector. Inspired by this momentum, we are committed to harnessing the positive changes already underway and continuing to build on them. To shape our DE&I policy, we have actively sought guidance from some of the leading champions in the field, including CEOs, Managing Directors, and Founders from Blurred, Boldspace, Manifest, and Ketchum.
We have taken a thoughtful and deliberate approach to developing our DE&I statements and goals, engaging in workshops, mentorships, and training schemes to fully establish and cement the values and policies outlined below.
Our Commitment to DE&I
At The Ripple Effect, we are dedicated to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to grow, thrive, and feel empowered. Our core commitments include:
1. A Balanced Leadership Team
We are proud to have a 50/50 male-to-female split at the senior level and are committed to maintaining equal pay for all roles, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religious belief, neurodiversity, socio-economic background or sexual orientation. This balance reflects our belief that diversity in leadership leads to stronger decision-making and a more inclusive work environment.
2. Equal Opportunities for All
We believe that every individual should have the same opportunities to succeed. We are committed to creating a workplace where all employees and applicants, regardless of their background, feel supported and have access to the same opportunities for professional development and career advancement. We will make opportunities for training available to all staff regarding issues that impact equality, diversity and inclusion in society and the workplace so that they can represent the agency’s values throughout their work.
3. Zero Tolerance for Discrimination, Bullying and Harassment
We enforce a zero-tolerance policy for any form of discrimination, bullying or harassment, whether from within our team or from our clients. We are committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where all employees feel respected and valued.
4. Continual Learning and Growth
We embrace the opportunity to learn from our clients and industry peers. We understand that fostering a truly inclusive environment is an ongoing process, and we are committed to continuously learning and evolving our practices to foster positive change. We are committed to reviewing employment practices and procedures wherever necessary to ensure fairness, and also update them and the policy to take account of changes in law.
5. Commitment to Accreditation and Accountability
We are committed to applying for both Blueprint and B-Corp accreditation to ensure our agency is held accountable for its actions and continues to operate as a purpose-led PR business. These accreditations will help us measure our progress and ensure we remain true to our values.
Equal Opportunities and Non-Discrimination
The Ripple Effect is committed to being an equal-opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the grounds of gender, pregnancy/maternity, sexual orientation, religion or beliefs, marital status, ethnicity, nationality, disability, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, selection, promotion, training, pay, benefits, and termination.
Responsibilities
- Management Responsibilities: Management is responsible for ensuring that all staff are aware of this policy and understand the importance of adhering to its guidelines. They must handle grievances related to discrimination promptly and fairly, maintaining proper records of all such grievances.
- Staff Responsibilities: All staff members must comply with this policy and avoid engaging in or encouraging discriminatory practices. They must also report any discriminatory practices they observe to their manager.
Grievance Procedure
Employees who believe they have experienced discrimination or harassment are encouraged to report the matter using our grievance policy. Reports can be made directly to the founders or management team. We assure that no employee will face retaliation for raising a complaint unless it is found to be malicious or untrue. False accusations of harassment may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal.
Monitoring and Review
This DE&I policy will be regularly reviewed by the Co-Founders to ensure its effectiveness. We are committed to continuous improvement and will make necessary adjustments based on feedback, surveys, and changes in legal or regulatory requirements.
By fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment, The Ripple Effect aims to not only reflect the communities we serve but also to lead by example in the PR industry.
Approval
This statement has been approved by the Co Founders of The Ripple Effect London Ltd.
Francesca Wheeler
Co-Founder
The Ripple Effect London Ltd
3 September 2024
Sam Dibley
Co-Founder
The Ripple Effect London Ltd
3 September 2024