Business Ethics Policy

Purpose

The Considerate Constructors Scheme Ltd (CCS) are committed to the highest standards of openness, probity, ethical behaviour, and accountability. We believe it is important that we maintain high ethical standards to preserve our reputation in the marketplace.

Good ethics are important to ensure that we meet not only our objectives in a fair and equitable manner but our wider social responsibilities externally. In addition, we are committed to ensuring high ethical standards within the workplace.

The procedure that follows provides general guidance on ethics and refers to other CCS policies where necessary. The procedure will be closely monitored and will be developed as necessary to ensure that it meets the needs of the organisation, its employees, and its stakeholders.

The procedure that follows provides general guidance on ethics and refers to other policies of the Company where necessary. The procedure will be closely monitored and will be developed as necessary to ensure that it meets the needs of the Company, its employees, and its stakeholders.

Scope of Policy

This policy is designed to enable CCS employees to understand what is expected of them regarding ethical and professional conduct.

Procedure

All employees are required to adhere to CCS’s policy and procedure on business ethics. Employees who breach this may be subject to disciplinary action.

Employees who are faced with a potential breach of the business ethics code or have doubts about an ethical choice they are facing should, in the first instance, speak to their line manager.

We have various policies and procedures which employees are expected to abide by. A copy of the policies relevant to this procedure are available on the intranet and in the Employee Handbook.

The following areas are included in this procedure. However, this list is not exhaustive and will be developed as required.

Data protection
Whistleblowing
Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption
Confidentiality
Personal relationships
Equal opportunities and dignity at work
Other employment
The environment

Data Protection

We endorse fully and adhere to the principles of data protection, as set out in Article 5 of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). These data protection principles are set out in our Data Protection policy and all employees are expected to familiarise themselves with its requirements. Employees should ensure that they understand how data protection impacts on their role, in particular with regard to external suppliers and customers. Employees who have any questions on the Data Protection policy should speak to their line manager in the first instance.

Whistleblowing

We encourage a free and open culture in our dealings between employees and all people with whom we engage in business and legal relations. We recognise that effective and honest communication is essential if malpractice is to be effectively dealt with and CCS’s success ensured. Employees should refer to the Whistleblowing policy which provides guidance to employees who feel that they need to raise issues relating to CCS with someone in confidence.

Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption

We do not believe that the giving and receiving of gifts from suppliers and customers is appropriate. In certain circumstances gifts may constitute a bribe. Further information and guidance can be found in the Anti-Bribery and Anti- Corruption Policy.

Endorsement

It is our policy not to endorse products, materials, resources or services provided by third-party private companies.

Registered sites, companies and suppliers agree to abide by the Code of Considerate Practice, which sets out our expectations and the areas that are fundamental to registration with CCS. How a site, company or supplier chooses to comply with the Code is their responsibility, including whether they use any products or services to help them meet their objectives. A range of products and services is available to the construction industry to support considerate construction practices. CCS does not endorse any such products or services, and we do not promote the benefits of one provider over another. From time to time, organisations may promote their products or services by implying an association with CCS; where this occurs, it is without our permission.

We work with several industry bodies whose missions and aims align with the Code of Considerate Practice. From time to time, we may support initiatives and activities led by such organisations where they contribute to improving the image of construction or provide a clear benefit to registered sites and companies.

Confidentiality

A confidentiality clause forms part of all employees’ contracts of employment. During employment employees will have access to information of a confidential and sensitive nature. Employees must not disclose to a third party any organisational confidential information, either during their employment or after their employment has ended. Confidential information includes information on our present or potential customers or suppliers and any information relating to the our business, including marketing, corporate or financial plans.

Personal relationships

We recognise that work may result in friendships and closer relationships developing. Relationships may develop not only with colleagues but suppliers and customers. It is natural for relationships to develop in a working environment. While CCS has every respect for the privacy of its employees, we ask that all employees consider the impact that personal relationships can have on CCS.

Equal opportunities

We are committed to equality of opportunity and diversity in the workplace. It is our policy to treat all job applicants and employees fairly and equitably, regardless of their gender, sex, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, gender reassignment, race (including ethnic origin, colour, nationality, and national origin), disability, sexual orientation, religion, belief, age or socio-economic background or status.

Furthermore, we will monitor the composition of the workforce and introduce positive action if it appears that this policy is not fully effective. Employees are required to conduct themselves in a way that always promotes equal opportunities. Good practice will be promoted by senior management and employees will be provided with relevant training.

Employees who feel they have been discriminated against or suffered harassment should raise this immediately. Further information is available in the Dignity at Work policy.

Other employment

Employees may seek to start separate employment with another employer or pursue outside business interests while remaining employed by CCS. Although we have no desire to unreasonably restrict an employee’s external activities, we must seek to protect our own interests and those of all our employees. Employees will not be permitted to undertake business activities or other work where CCS considers that this is incompatible with its interests or with the employee's health or safety and, in any event, unless employees have obtained prior written authorisation from the Managing Director. Please notify the People Team who can provide advice and support. Further information is provided in the Employee Handbook.

The environment

We are committed to conserving the Earth’s resources and to do what we can to reduce any negative effects we have on the environment. Employees are required to use CCS’s equipment and materials wisely and reduce wastage where possible. Employees can play a positive role in helping the environment by recycling all non-confidential waste, using printers and photocopiers with care, and switching off electrical equipment which is not in use. Further information can be found in the Environmental policy.