ABOUT US
Equal Opportunities Policy
Cavendish Rentals Limited is committed to equal opportunities for employees, landlords, tenants/contract holders, and contractors. We recognise that everyone has a contribution to make to society and a right to equal opportunity.
No employee (including prospective employees), landlord, tenant or contract holder, contractor, or other service provider will be discriminated against by us on any ground that is, or may become, unlawful under the laws of England and Wales. These grounds are known as Protected Characteristics.
Protected Characteristics
As defined by the Equality Act 2010:
Age
A person belonging to a particular age (e.g. 32-year-olds) or range of ages (e.g. 18 to 30-year-olds).
Disability
A person has a disability if they have a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on that person’s ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.
Gender Reassignment
The process of transitioning from one gender to another or identifying with no gender (non-binary).
Marriage/Civil Partnership
Marriage is a union between a man and a woman, or between a same-sex couple. A civil partnership is a legal relationship between same-sex or opposite-sex couples. Civil partners must not be treated less favourably than married couples (except where permitted by law).
Pregnancy and Maternity
Pregnancy is the condition of being pregnant or expecting a baby. Maternity refers to the period after birth. Protection lasts for 26 weeks post-birth and includes breastfeeding-related discrimination.
Race
Includes race, colour, nationality (including citizenship), and ethnic or national origins.
Religion and Belief
Includes any religion or lack thereof, and any religious or philosophical belief (or lack of belief) that impacts one’s life choices.
Sex
Male, female, or non-binary identity.
Sexual Orientation
Whether a person’s sexual attraction is to the same sex, opposite sex, both, or neither.
Types of Discrimination
Direct Discrimination
When a person with a protected characteristic is treated less favourably than others.
Example: Refusing to employ a contractor because they are a person of colour.
Indirect Discrimination
When a policy or rule disadvantages a person with a protected characteristic.
Example: Requiring five years’ experience may disadvantage younger applicants.
Discrimination by Association
Unfair treatment due to association with someone who has a protected characteristic.
Example: Refusing to rent to a carer of a disabled person.
Discrimination by Perception
Unfair treatment based on perception of a protected characteristic.
Example: Refusing tenancy based on perceived sexual orientation.
Harassment
Unwanted behaviour that offends, humiliates, or intimidates.
Example: Sexual comments overheard in an office causing discomfort to others.
Victimisation
Treating someone badly for complaining about discrimination or supporting another.
Example: Denying promotion to someone who supported a colleague’s claim.
Letting and Estate Agency Considerations
Confidential Information
Do not misuse personal information discovered through access to clients’ homes.
Reasonable Adjustments
Ensure accessibility and provide alternate communication formats where needed.
Instructions to Discriminate
Never accept instructions from landlords or sellers to unlawfully discriminate.
Managing Premises
Fairly provide services and benefits to all tenants or contract holders without discrimination or harassment.
No DSS Policies
Blanket bans on tenants receiving benefits may be unlawful. Assess applications individually unless restricted by lender terms.
Complaints
Harassment and discrimination are unlawful. Cavendish Rentals Limited will not tolerate such behaviour and is committed to dignity and respect for all.
Source: Equality and Human Rights Commission
Note: Cavendish Rentals Limited acts only as Letting & Management Agents and does not conduct property sales.
The successful implementation of this policy depends on the awareness and commitment of all staff. Hence, all new staff will be made aware of its existence on joining the company and reminded they must conform with it on a regular basis.
However, if individuals feel that any employee, tenant/contract holder, landlord or contractor of Cavendish Rentals Limited have fallen short of their commitment to equal opportunities, Cavendish Rentals will take appropriate action to prevent, as far as possible, a further occurrence
In the first instance please address any concerns or complaints to the appropriate Line Manager or Director.
This policy is fully supported by the Directors of Cavendish Rentals Limited.
The policy will be monitored and reviewed annually.
Rev 9th May 2025