1. Scope of Policy 
2. Zero-Tolerance  
3. Reporting and Response Procedures
4. Monitoring and Review
5. Statement

1.    Scope of Policy

Innovate Dorset Ltd. is committed to creating a safe and respectful work environment for all our employees, service users and visitors. We will investigate all complaints that fall within this policy promptly and fairly, and protect the confidentiality and privacy of all parties involved. We value diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect as the pillars of our company culture. 

2.    Zero-Tolerance

Our organisation is dedicated to providing alternative education to young people, fostering lifelong learning skills through a nurturing approach that encourages active participation in our sessions. We are committed to recognising and cultivating the potential of each participant, promoting a spirit of adventure and excellence within a secure environment, facilitated by a team of creative and proficient adults.

In alignment with our mission, we expect all interactions between external entities, such as parents and other professionals, and our staff, to be conducted in a respectful, calm, and considerate manner, regardless of the circumstances. Our staff must not be exposed to any form of abusive or intimidating behaviour, whether through telephone calls, emails, or other communication channels.

While we understand that individuals may wish to convey the urgency of a problem or may be emotionally charged by a situation, it is crucial to emphasise that the Company will not tolerate such behaviour towards our staff. In instances where such behaviour becomes prevalent or occurs, the Company will take appropriate measures to safeguard our staff. These measures may include refusing further interaction with the individual, blocking their contact via phone or email, and reporting their behaviour to the relevant employer or authority.

“We have everyone’s best interests at heart, but we will not tolerate abusive behaviour towards our hardworking staff.”

Staff will not tolerate the following behaviours from external parties:

1. Verbal abuse
   • Shouting, swearing, name-calling, or threats directed at staff.
2. Physical aggression or threats
   • Any attempt to cause harm or intimidate staff physically.
3. Harassment or bullying
   • Persistent, targeted behaviour, including discriminatory remarks related to race, gender, disability, religion, or sexuality.
4. Online abuse
   • Aggressive or threatening messages sent via email, social media, or other digital platforms.
5. Intimidation or coercion
   • Threatening staff, their families, or property, including frivolous legal threats intended to intimidate.
6. Disruption of operations
   • Behaviours that disrupt teaching, learning, or provision operations in a threatening or abusive manner.

3.    Reporting and Response Procedures

1. Immediate Reporting
   • Staff must report all incidents of abuse, aggression, or intimidation immediately to a senior member of staff.
2. Investigation
   • All reports will be logged, and relevant evidence will be collected, including emails, messages, witness statements, and call logs if applicable.
3. Response/Consequences
   Depending on the severity of the behaviour, consequences may include:
   • Warnings to the individual
   • Restriction of access to site or requirement to communicate only via formal channels
   • Referral to the police or legal action for severe or criminal behaviour
4. Support for Staff
   • Staff involved will be offered appropriate support, including counselling, debriefing, and professional guidance.

4.    Monitoring and Review

• The Senior Leadership Team will review incidents regularly to monitor compliance and effectiveness.
• The policy will be formally reviewed at least annually and updated in line with safeguarding, employment law, and health and safety regulations.

5.    Statement

Innovate Dorset Ltd will not tolerate abusive, threatening, or aggressive behaviour from any external party. Staff are entitled to work in an environment free from intimidation, harassment, and harm. Any breach of this policy will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and addressed consistently and fairly.

CONTROL SHEET	Version Number: 3	Author: Kevin Tatchell
Zero Tolerance Policy	Status of policy: Approved
Approved by: Kevin Tatchell	Date of Review: 14 January 2026	Reviewed by: Elizabeth Poppitt
	Next Review Date: 14 January 2027