Ethical Conduct Policy

Updated November 2025

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Purpose of this Policy

Highlands Innovation CIC is committed to conducting all of its activities in an ethical, honest and responsible manner. This Ethical Conduct Policy sets out the values and standards of behaviour we expect from everyone involved in our work, including staff, volunteers, trustees, contractors and partners.

Our Values

As a Community Interest Company, we exist for public benefit rather than private gain. Our work is guided by the following core values:

• Integrity – acting honestly and consistently, even when no one is watching.
• Respect – treating all people with dignity, fairness and courtesy.
• Accountability – taking responsibility for our decisions, actions and use of resources.
• Transparency – being open about our work, governance and impact where it is safe and lawful to do so.
• Inclusion – recognising and valuing diversity and challenging discrimination.
• Sustainability – considering environmental and social impacts in our choices.

Expected Standards of Behaviour

Everyone representing or working with Highlands Innovation CIC is expected to:

• act lawfully and in accordance with our governing documents and policies;
• be honest, considerate and professional in their interactions;
• avoid behaviour that could harm individuals, communities or our reputation;
• declare and appropriately manage conflicts of interest;
• protect confidential and sensitive information;
• use resources and assets responsibly and for their intended purpose.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to promoting equality of opportunity, valuing diversity and opposing discrimination in all forms. We expect everyone connected with our work to:

• treat others fairly and without prejudice;
• challenge discriminatory language or behaviour where safe to do so;
• support inclusive practices in projects, services and decision-making.

Conflicts of Interest

Individuals involved in our governance, projects or procurement should identify and declare any actual or potential conflicts between personal interests and the interests of Highlands Innovation CIC. Conflicts will be managed transparently in line with our governance arrangements to ensure decisions are made in the best interests of our community purpose.

Use of Resources and Information

We expect our resources, including funds, equipment, data and digital tools, to be used responsibly and only for legitimate organisational purposes. Misuse of resources, unauthorised access, improper disclosure of information or personal gain at the expense of the organisation or its beneficiaries is not acceptable.

Working with Partners and Stakeholders

We seek to work with partners, suppliers and stakeholders who share our commitment to ethical practice. In our collaborations we aim to:

• act fairly and transparently;
• honour agreements and manage expectations honestly;
• respect the roles, expertise and constraints of others;
• promote mutual learning, trust and accountability.

Raising Ethical Concerns

We encourage anyone who becomes aware of behaviour that appears to breach this Policy, or that raises serious ethical concerns, to speak up. Depending on the nature of the issue, this may be addressed through our Complaints Policy or our Whistleblowing Policy. We do not tolerate victimisation of individuals who raise concerns in good faith.

Monitoring and Review

We will review this Ethical Conduct Policy periodically to ensure it remains relevant, proportionate and aligned with our values, legal duties and best practice. Updates will be indicated by the “Updated” date at the top of this page.