Alstern Solicitors is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in all areas of our work. We aim to foster a culture where differences are respected and valued, and where everyone is treated with dignity. We are dedicated to eliminating unlawful discrimination and ensuring that our workforce reflects the communities we serve.

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We believe that an inclusive and supportive working environment enables individuals to thrive and allows us to deliver a higher standard of service to our clients. Our commitment extends not only to our employees but also to clients, suppliers, and members of the public who interact with the firm.

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Purpose of This Policy

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The purpose of this policy is to:

1. Provide equality, fairness and respect for all individuals who work for us, whether on a full-time, part-time, permanent, or temporary basis.

2. Ensure that no one is unlawfully discriminated against in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.

3. Promote an inclusive workplace culture that embraces individual differences and encourages open participation.

4. Ensure that our policies and procedures remain compliant with the law and are applied fairly across all areas of employment and service delivery.

 

Protected Characteristics

 

We do not discriminate against anyone on the basis of the protected characteristics outlined in the Equality Act 2010. These include:

1. Age

2. Disability

3. Gender reassignment

4. Marriage and civil partnership

5. Pregnancy and maternity

6. Race (including colour, nationality and ethnic or national origin)

7. Religion or belief

8. Sex

9. Sexual orientation

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Areas of Application

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We are committed to ensuring equality and avoiding discrimination in the following areas:

1. Recruitment and selection

2. Employment terms and conditions

3. Pay and benefits

4. Training, development and progression opportunities

5. Promotion

6. Dealing with grievances and disciplinary issues

7. Dismissal and redundancy

8. Parental leave and flexible working arrangements

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Our Responsibilities

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Alstern Solicitors commits to the following actions:

1. We will promote and achieve equality, diversity and inclusion throughout the workplace because we believe it is both best practice and good for business.

2. We will provide a working environment free from bullying, harassment, victimisation and unlawful discrimination. We will promote dignity and respect, and ensure that each individual feels valued.

3. We will ensure that all staff understand their responsibilities under this policy. Everyone is expected to act in a way that supports our commitment to equality and inclusion.

4. We will provide appropriate training and support to staff so they can carry out their duties in line with this policy.

5. We will take all complaints of bullying, harassment, victimisation or unlawful discrimination seriously. Any such behaviour will be addressed through our grievance and disciplinary procedures and may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal.

6. We will ensure that decisions relating to recruitment, promotion and development are based on merit, skills, and experience, except in limited circumstances where the law permits positive action.

7. We will regularly review our employment practices, policies and procedures to ensure they are fair, inclusive and legally compliant.

 

Monitoring and Publication of Diversity Data

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In accordance with the requirements of the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), Alstern Solicitors collects and monitors diversity data across the organisation. This includes data relating to age, sex, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation and disability.

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We use this data to help identify trends, monitor the effectiveness of our equality and diversity measures, and inform future improvements. The data is anonymised and published every two years on our website, in line with data protection regulations.

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The most recent diversity survey was conducted in June 2025, and all of our staffs participated. The results can be viewed at here.

Raising Concerns

If any employee, client, or other individual connected with the firm believes they have been subjected to discrimination or inappropriate conduct, they are encouraged to raise the matter with the Practice Manager. All complaints will be handled sensitively, fairly and in line with our grievance procedures.

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Review and Accountability

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This policy is supported by the senior management team and is reviewed at least once a year to ensure it remains up to date and effective. Responsibility for reviewing and updating this policy lies with the Practice Manager, in collaboration with the firm’s leadership.

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Any amendments will be made as required by changes in legislation, regulatory guidance or organisational practice.