Business ethics and anti-bribery

Bribery and improper payments

Offering, promising, giving, requesting or accepting a bribe is prohibited. This includes facilitation payments and using an intermediary to do something that would be unacceptable directly. Political or charitable contributions must never be used to obtain an improper business advantage.

Gifts, hospitality and conflicts

Gifts and hospitality must be lawful, proportionate, transparent and compatible with the recipient’s rules. Anything intended to influence a procurement or commercial decision improperly must be refused. Where there is doubt, obtain a director’s decision before proceeding.

Actual, potential or perceived conflicts of interest must be disclosed to a director before a decision or engagement is affected. Relevant gifts, hospitality, approvals and conflicts should be recorded so that decisions can be explained.

Honest delivery and commercial records

Proposals, invoices, expenses and capability claims should be accurate and supported by records. Do not claim certifications, partnerships, client results or approvals without current evidence and permission where required. Respect confidentiality, intellectual property and agreed client obligations.

Partners and concerns

Selection and oversight of partners should reflect the nature of the engagement and its risks, including the countries involved and the activities performed on our behalf. A partner’s credentials do not become EQ Solutions’ credentials.

Raise suspected misconduct with a director or through engage@eqsolutions.co.uk. Concerns will be considered fairly and shared only as needed to investigate and respond. People must not suffer retaliation for raising a concern honestly. Suspected criminal conduct may require external advice or reporting.

Accountability

The directors are responsible for proportionate prevention arrangements, communication and review. This statement sets expectations; detailed registers, risk assessments and training records are separate evidence and should be supplied to buyers only where relevant and appropriate.