Our codes of conduct

We use the regulators’ code as our framework for engaging with those we regulate.

We also have a set of principles and objectives to guide our approach to regulation.

Principles

Our principles state that we will:

1. Aim to shape society’s understanding of new challenges in equality and human rights. An important part of this is making sure that we are aware of the obstacles that organisations face in embedding equality and human rights in their activities.
2. Be committed to openness and transparency, publishing our plans and priorities every year to ensure that stakeholders have a clear idea of our work programme. We will also report back on how we’ve met our objectives.
3. Use our range of powers to help organisations and individuals comply with the law and follow the highest standards of practice. When required, we will use our enforcement and litigation powers proportionately, firmly, promptly and effectively.
4. Ensure all our actions are consistent, based on evidence, justifiable and transparent. This includes explaining why we have chosen to do something or why we have decided not to get involved.
5. Use our resources in the most efficient, effective and economic way. This means that we will target them where they will have the greatest impact and will avoid using more of our powers or resources than are needed.
6. Work in partnership with other businesses, organisations and regulators. However, our independence and unique powers are important and we’ll take care not to prejudice these.

Objectives

Our objectives enable us to decide on the most appropriate action to take, focusing our resources on anything that puts our objectives at risk.

They also allow our work to be assessed, so we know if we are achieving the required results. They are:

1. To bring about a society that understands and respects equality and human, rights by shaping and influencing attitudes and behaviours.
2. To improve organisations’ and individuals’ compliance with equality and human rights obligations and duties.
3. To build confidence in and understanding of equality and human rights across the private, public and voluntary sectors.
4. To protect individuals from discrimination and human rights violations.
5. To be an effective and credible regulator and National Human Rights Institution (NHRI).

These principles and objectives underpin our litigation and enforcement policy.