Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Policy

Document Ref: HR-POL-EDI-01
Version: 1.0
Owner: Co-Chair
Applies to: Employees and Freelancers
Review: Annual
Last updated: March 2026

Pretzel Films Ltd is committed to building an inclusive culture and ensuring there is no discrimination in our company. We believe that diversity and inclusion support creativity and innovation and are essential to a successful creative production business.

We want our workforce and our wider talent network to be representative of all sections of society and to operate as a company in which every employee and freelancer feels respected, supported and able to do their best work.

Our Overarching Strategy

Our approach is anchored in four commitments:

Equality

Drive fairness and opportunity.

Diversity

Work to attract, develop, progress and retain underrepresented talent.

Inclusion

Create a workplace where everyone feels welcomed, respected, supported and valued.

Integrity

Act in accordance with our responsibilities, our policies and the law.

Scope

This policy applies to all staff and freelancers working with Pretzel Films Ltd, whether part-time, full-time, temporary or project-based.

Non-Discrimination

Pretzel Films Ltd is committed to providing equality and fairness for all in our employment and engagements. We oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination.

We will not discriminate on the grounds of:

  • Age
  • Disability
  • Gender
  • Gender reassignment
  • Marital status (including civil partnerships)
  • Race, ethnic origin, colour, nationality or national origin
  • Religion or belief
  • Sexual orientation

Fair Hiring and Development

Selection for employment or freelance engagement is based on aptitude and ability. Access to promotion, training, development and benefits is also based on aptitude and ability.

We encourage all employees to develop their full potential and we aim to ensure the talents and resources of our workforce and talent network are fully utilised.

Our Commitments

Pretzel Films Ltd will:

  • Review formal and informal hiring and engagement practices to ensure fairness and equal opportunity.
  • Seek opportunities to increase diversity in casting and talent decisions where applicable to a project.
  • Make reasonable adjustments to support disabled people working in or with our company.
  • Create an environment where individual differences and contributions are recognised and valued.
  • Maintain a workplace that promotes dignity and respect for all, and does not tolerate bullying, harassment or intimidation.
  • Ensure training, development and progression opportunities are available to all staff and, where appropriate, freelancers.

Diversity Goals

We have set the following goals:

  • Actively seek to increase the diversity of our talent networks.
  • Increase the number of people we work with from groups and communities under-represented in the industry overall or within specific job roles.

Workforce Culture and Conduct

Pretzel Films Ltd maintains policies and procedures intended to ensure that the workplace is free from discrimination, harassment, victimisation or any other form of inappropriate behaviour.

Everyone working with Pretzel Films Ltd is expected to support this culture through professional conduct and respectful collaboration.

Accessibility and Inclusion in Services

Where relevant to project scope and client needs, Pretzel Films Ltd will support inclusive and accessible creative outputs. We will consider accessibility requirements and best practice when delivering services and will encourage inclusion and accessibility through suppliers where applicable.

Grievances and Reporting Concerns

Any employee or freelancer who has a concern or grievance relating to equality, discrimination, harassment or human rights issues should raise the matter promptly.

  • Concerns should initially be raised with a Co-Chair or the Head of Production.
  • Where appropriate, concerns will be investigated and addressed without retaliation.
  • Individuals may be accompanied by a work colleague in formal meetings if required.

If you wish to raise a concern confidentially you may contact:

hello@pretzelfilms.com
www.pretzelfilms.com

Human Rights Commitments

Pretzel Films Ltd expects itself and its suppliers to uphold responsible and lawful working practices.

  • Modern slavery: We support compliance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and do not tolerate forced labour.
  • Avoidance of child labour: We do not employ child labour and verify eligibility to work before engagement.
  • Working hours, wages and benefits: We expect compliance with national laws on working hours and fair pay.
  • Whistleblowing: We support the ability for staff to raise concerns about wrongdoing without fear of retaliation.

Supply Chain

Our expectations of suppliers are aligned with our Supplier Code of Conduct. We expect suppliers and partners to support ethical practice and responsible conduct in their workforce and operations.

Monitoring and Review

This policy is monitored periodically and reviewed annually. Responsibility for ensuring this policy is implemented sits with the Co-Chairs, supported by line management.

Approved on behalf of Pretzel Films Ltd

Name: Pj Bickford

Title: Co-Chair

Signature: pjbickford

Date: 01.01.03