Our Fair Work First Statement

Almond Housing Association is fully committed to adopting the Fair Work First approach through our fair working practices:

1. We have an appropriate channel for effective employee voice

• Employee surveys are carried out to understand staff views, and employees are consulted and involved in all matters that affect them.
• The organisation promotes a culture of openness and working together, as reflected in our organisational values.
• Formal and informal arrangements are in place for colleague dialogue, including one to ones with managers, appraisal/feedback processes and team meetings. We encourage 2-way communication through our consultation process and strive to continually improve on this.
• Appropriate measures are in place to support dignity in the workplace via our disciplinary and/or grievance process. We have zero tolerance of workplace bullying and any other forms of abuse and harassment and we aim to ensure that any issues are investigated within a timely, constructive and fair manner.

2. We invest in workforce development

• We invest in the development of our people, identifying staff training needs and providing appropriate learning opportunities.
• Learning and development is integrated with our strategic planning, supported by our People Strategy and Learning and Development Policy.
• We support our staff advancing in their careers to study for formal qualifications.
• We are developing our practices and working environment to look at our opportunities for all colleague development and growth.

3. We do not use zero hours contracts inappropriately

• We have no zero-hour contracts in place.
• All staff are employed on a fixed term or permanent basis with confirmed hours and working pattern.

4. We take action to tackle the gender pay gap and create a more diverse and inclusive workplace

• We have an Equality and Diversity Policy in place and work closely with external organisations to review our practices and increase awareness.
• We support flexible working across the organisation and consider workplace adjustments for support
• We offer a hybrid working style to help individual circumstances.
• We are a Disability Confident Employer encouraging those with disabilities and medical conditions to feel encouraged to apply for employment and feel included at work
• We review our reward, terms and conditions and diversity data to ensure we understand our workforce and how we can improve.

5. We commit to paying the Real Living Wage

• We are committed to payment of the Real Living Wage

6. We offer flexible and family friendly working practices for all workers from day one of employment

• We operate and encourage hybrid working to support employee wellbeing and are a family friendly employer offering flexible/part-time working patterns.
• We offer special leave to support in difficult circumstances
• Our hybrid working allows for flexible working practices in line with business requirements

7. We oppose the use of fire and rehire practice

• We are committed to working with our employees to ensure there is effective consultation and negotiation relating to change.