More broadly, a number of processing firms told us of the steps they have taken to support and improve agency workers' rights. These included undertaking regular independent ethical audits, using SEDEX (the Supplier Ethical Data Exchange)10, GLA licensed agencies (this is a legal requirement), and Recruitment and Employment Confederation recognised agencies, and having Service Level Agreements (SLA) with agencies which specify how agency workers should be treated. Below is an overview of Bernard Matthews' policies and the SLA with the agency 1) Service Level Agreements exist between Bernard Matthews and our labour providers which contain assurances that neither party will discriminate in breach of the Equality Act 2010 in the sourcing and management of agency labour. Recruitment is undertaken in line with Bernard Matthews Hourly Paid Recruitment Policy. All labour providers must be in possession of a current GLA Licence and are committed in the contract to advise of any issues within 24 hours. 2) Bernard Matthews have within this agreement the right to transfer agency workers to permanent after 13 weeks service if there is a vacancy. This is a benefit to the Company that ensures permanent vacancies are filled with those who have demonstrated their suitability. 3) The offer of permanent employment is totally non-discriminatory and based only on ability to fulfil their duties. 4) All internal vacancies are advertised on Company Notice Boards and applications are welcomed from all permanent and agency workers.
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For further information on SEDEX please see http://www.sedexglobal.com/ 15