At Create Connect, diversity and inclusion (D&I) are fundamental to our agency’s identity and operations. We champion D&I internally and externally, fostering a more equitable and inclusive media, creative, and technical landscape.

Supporting Client D&I Goals:

• Education & Consultation: We offer D&I workshops, training, and ongoing guidance, empowering clients to develop and implement effective D&I strategies.
• Allyship & Advocacy: We actively promote inclusive practices within the industry, leveraging our platform and expertise to advocate for our clients’ D&I goals.
• B Corp Support: We assist clients in pursuing B Corp certification, reflecting our shared commitment to social and environmental responsibility, including D&I.
• Legal & Regulatory Compliance: We integrate the latest D&I laws and regulations into our work, ensuring compliance and best practices in all our output.
• DEI Council Partnership: Our partnership with a DEI council, including survey support, provides expert insights and strengthens our D&I initiatives.
• All In Champion Program: We support clients with acquiring their All in champion status so they adhere to DEI goals for all communities.
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Internal D&I Practices:

• Recruitment: We prioritise diverse hiring through targeted sourcing, blind resume screening, an always-open, multi-platform talent pool (social media, events, CRM marketing, community engagement), and flexible working options, and inclusive job adverts and open hiring methods, such as no cv or years of experience.
• Training: Our MD, with a DEI background, leads comprehensive D&I and accessibility training for all team members, including freelancers. Accessible online resources and user guides provide ongoing support, and collect data of all freelancers to tailor their working experience with Create Connect.
• Communication: We talk openly about D&I and engage in discussions and feedback, ensuring all voices are heard.
• We sponsor smaller community events hosted by underrepresented groups
• Career Development: We support career growth through mentorship, sponsorship, and flexible working arrangements for our partner community Black Create Connect.
• Accessibility: We prioritise digital and physical accessibility, providing paid software, tools, and adaptive resources for all team members.
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Amplifying & Connecting Communities:

• We host events, collaborate with diverse community partners, and feature over 100 Black leader interviews on our platform.
• We provide external D&I training, connect communities with mentors, and work with universities to link underrepresented talent, particularly BAME individuals, with opportunities.
• Our accessible content, community-led feedback mechanisms, and network safe spaces empower and diversify the creative landscape.
• Our learning and development coaching helps companies retain talent and engage in impactful ERG activities.

Through these multifaceted D&I efforts, Create Connect partners with clients like the BBC to achieve meaningful progress, fostering a more representative and inclusive media industry. We believe diverse perspectives fuel creativity and innovation, and we are dedicated to building an environment where everyone thrives.

Create Connect Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) Policy

1. Introduction

Create Connect is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where every team member, freelancer, partner, community member and client feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique talents. This policy outlines our commitment to DE&I and the steps we take to create a positive and inclusive environment.

2. Our Commitment

We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce and world is essential for creativity, innovation, and success. We are committed to:

Creating a workplace free from discrimination and harassment: We have a zero-tolerance policy for any form of discrimination or harassment based on age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

Promoting equal opportunities: We provide equal opportunities for all in recruitment, training, career development, and all other aspects of employment.

Valuing diversity: We celebrate the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our team and strive to create an environment where everyone feels welcome and respected.

Fostering inclusion: We actively promote inclusion by creating opportunities for all voices to be heard and ensuring that everyone feels a sense of belonging.

Continuous improvement: We regularly review and update our DE&I policy and practices to ensure they remain effective and relevant.

3. Our DE&I Practices

We implement a range of DE&I practices, including:

Recruitment: We use diverse recruitment channels, inclusive hiring practices, and an always-open talent pool to attract a wide range of candidates.

Training: We provide comprehensive DE&I training to all team members, covering topics such as unconscious bias, inclusive communication, and creating a respectful workplace.

Career Development: We support the career development of all team members through mentorship, sponsorship, and flexible working arrangements.

Accessibility: We prioritize digital and physical accessibility to ensure equal opportunities for all.

Community Engagement: We actively engage with diverse communities through partnerships, events, and outreach programs.

Data Collection and Monitoring: We collect and monitor diversity data to track our progress and identify areas for improvement.

We actively support diverse suppliers and are committed to partnering with businesses owned and operated by underrepresented groups. This includes providing opportunities for these suppliers to connect with our network and promoting their products and services.

4. Responsibilities

All team members, freelancers : Are responsible for upholding this policy and contributing to a positive and inclusive work environment.

Management: Is responsible for implementing this policy, providing DE&I training, and addressing any DE&I concerns raised by team members.

DE&I Champion: A designated DE&I Champion will oversee the implementation of this policy and promote DE&I initiatives within the agency.

5. Reporting and Complaints

Any incidents of discrimination, harassment, or other DE&I concerns should be reported to Alicia Richardson, Managing Director. All complaints will be taken seriously and investigated promptly and confidentially.

6. Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed and updated at least annually or more frequently as needed to reflect changes in legislation, best practices, or agency needs.

This policy applies to all Create Connect team members, community members freelancers, partners, and clients. We are committed to creating a workplace and world where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.