HR and People Policy

B Young Stars – Updated June 2025

1. Introduction

Committed to a working and volunteering environment rooted in fairness, dignity, and equity. Applies to all trustees, staff, and volunteers.

2. Staff and Volunteer Recruitment

2.1 Equal Opportunities and Non-Discrimination

Fully committed to the Equality Act 2010. Aim to eliminate all forms of discrimination across age, race, gender, disability, religion, and sexual orientation.

2.2 Safer Recruitment Practices

Follows NSPCC and KCSIE principles. Mandatory Enhanced DBS checks, panel interviews with at least two trained individuals, and full employment history verification.

2.3 Right to Work

Complies with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. All candidates must present evidence of right to work in the UK.

3. Volunteer Management

3.1 Expectations

Provided with a Volunteer Agreement (non-binding). Treatment upholds the NCVO Volunteer Charter.

3.2 Induction and Supervision

Structured induction including mission, key policies, and training needs analysis. Supported by a named supervisor with annual reviews.

3.3 Conduct

Must complete safeguarding training and sign a Confidentiality Agreement. Public liability insurance covers all volunteer activities.

4. Induction and Training

4.1 Structured Programme

Completed within the first week. Includes overview of mission, role-specific duties, and policy introductions.

4.2 Mandatory Training Timeframes

• Safeguarding training: Within 2 weeks.
• Data protection and GDPR: Within 1 month.
• Health and Safety Awareness: Within 2 weeks.
• Equality, Diversity & Inclusion: Within 1 month.

5. Sickness and Absence

Report to line manager as early as possible. Self-certification required for up to 7 days. GP Fit Note required for more than 7 days. Complies with Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) regulations.

6. Health and Safety

Adheres to Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. quarterly reviews of risk assessments. Accidents recorded in an incident log and reported via RIDDOR when necessary. Monthly checks of first aid kits.

7. Bullying and Harassment

Zero-tolerance policy. Harassment is any unwanted conduct related to a protected characteristic. Complaints follow the formal grievance procedure. Investigations led by Designated HR Lead.

8. Expenses and Reimbursement

Reimburses reasonable out-of-pocket expenses (travel at HMRC rates, meals, training materials). Claims must be submitted with original receipts within 30 days. Paid within 10 working days.

9. Modern Slavery Act Compliance

Complies with the Modern Slavery Act 2015. Training for staff to identify signs of coercion or lack of control over identity documents. Suspicious activity reported to Modern Slavery Helpline.