Policy Suite

Strategic PA Network

Information Security Policy

Purpose

Strategic PA Network is committed to protecting the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information entrusted to us by our members, partners, speakers, suppliers and stakeholders.

Scope

This policy applies to all Strategic PA Network directors, employees, contractors and third-party suppliers who handle information on behalf of the organisation.

Our Commitment

Strategic PA Network will:

• Protect personal and business information from unauthorised access, disclosure, loss or misuse.
• Use secure systems and platforms for storing and processing information.
• Restrict access to information on a need-to-know basis.
• Maintain strong password practices and appropriate security controls.
• Ensure devices used for business purposes are protected through appropriate security measures.
• Comply with applicable data protection legislation, including UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.
• Report and investigate any suspected information security incidents promptly.

Data Handling

We will:

• Collect only information necessary for legitimate business purposes.
• Store information securely.
• Retain information only for as long as required.
• Dispose of information securely when no longer needed.

Responsibility

The Directors of Strategic PA Network are responsible for ensuring this policy is implemented and reviewed regularly.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually.

Strategic PA Network

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Policy

Purpose

Strategic PA Network recognises its responsibility to operate in a sustainable, ethical and socially responsible manner.

Environmental Commitment

We aim to:

• Minimise waste generated through our events and operations.
• Encourage digital communication and documentation wherever possible.
• Work with venues and suppliers who demonstrate sustainable practices.
• Reduce unnecessary travel and promote virtual participation where appropriate.
• Consider environmental impact when selecting suppliers and event partners.

Social Commitment

We are committed to:

• Creating an inclusive, welcoming and supportive professional community.
• Promoting diversity, equity and inclusion across our events and activities.
• Supporting learning, development and career progression within the business support profession.
• Maintaining a safe environment where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.

Governance Commitment

We will:

• Conduct business ethically and transparently.
• Comply with all relevant laws and regulations.
• Maintain appropriate policies relating to privacy, anti-bribery and modern slavery.
• Make decisions that support the long-term sustainability of our organisation and community.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually.

Strategic PA Network

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Policy

Purpose

Strategic PA Network is committed to creating a professional community where everyone feels welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to participate fully.

As an inclusive network for business support professionals, we believe that diversity of backgrounds, experiences, perspectives and ideas strengthens our community and contributes to better outcomes for our members, partners, speakers and stakeholders.

Our Commitment

We are committed to:

• Promoting equality of opportunity for all individuals.
• Creating an inclusive environment that welcomes and respects diversity.
• Treating all people with dignity, fairness and respect.
• Challenging discrimination, harassment, bullying and exclusionary behaviour.
• Encouraging a culture where individuals feel safe to contribute and be themselves.
• Ensuring our events, activities and communications are accessible and inclusive wherever reasonably practicable.

Scope

This policy applies to:

• Directors and team members of Strategic PA Network.
• Members of the Strategic PA Network community.
• Speakers, facilitators and trainers.
• Event attendees.
• Suppliers, partners and sponsors.
• Any individual representing or participating in Strategic PA Network activities.

Equality and Fair Treatment

Strategic PA Network does not tolerate discrimination based on any protected characteristic, including:

• Age
• Disability
• Gender reassignment
• Marriage and civil partnership
• Pregnancy and maternity
• Race, ethnicity or nationality
• Religion or belief
• Sex
• Sexual orientation

We also recognise and value diversity in professional backgrounds, experiences, thinking styles and lived experiences.

Inclusive Events and Activities

When planning and delivering events, we will seek to:

• Provide welcoming and inclusive environments.
• Encourage diverse speakers, panellists and contributors.
• Promote respectful discussion and professional conduct.
• Consider accessibility requirements wherever possible.
• Ensure all attendees are treated fairly and respectfully.

Expected Behaviour

We expect everyone involved with Strategic PA Network to:

• Treat others with courtesy and respect.
• Respect different perspectives and experiences.
• Contribute to a positive and professional environment.
• Avoid behaviour that may be discriminatory, intimidating, offensive or exclusionary.

Reporting Concerns

Any concerns regarding discrimination, harassment, bullying or inappropriate behaviour should be reported to a Director of Strategic PA Network.

All concerns will be taken seriously and addressed fairly, sensitively and appropriately.

Accountability

The Directors of Strategic PA Network are responsible for promoting equality, diversity and inclusion across the organisation and ensuring this policy is regularly reviewed.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, relevant and aligned with current legislation and best practice.

Strategic PA Network

Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Policy

Purpose

Strategic PA Network has a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking and exploitation.

Our Commitment

We are committed to:

• Acting ethically and with integrity in all business relationships.
• Ensuring modern slavery is not present within our business operations.
• Working with suppliers, venues and partners who share our commitment to ethical business practices.
• Complying with the Modern Slavery Act 2015.

Supplier Expectations

We expect our suppliers and partners to:

• Operate in compliance with applicable labour laws.
• Prohibit forced labour, child labour and human trafficking.
• Treat workers fairly and with respect.
• Maintain safe working conditions.

Reporting Concerns

Any concerns relating to modern slavery or unethical practices should be reported to the Directors of Strategic PA Network and will be investigated appropriately.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually.

Strategic PA Network

Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption Policy

Purpose

Strategic PA Network is committed to conducting business fairly, honestly and transparently.

Policy Statement

We operate a zero-tolerance approach to bribery and corruption and comply with the UK Bribery Act 2010.

Prohibited Conduct

No representative of Strategic PA Network may:

• Offer, promise or give a bribe.
• Request, accept or receive a bribe.
• Use improper influence to gain business advantage.
• Facilitate payments or other improper incentives.

Gifts and Hospitality

Reasonable and proportionate hospitality may be accepted or offered where it:

• Supports legitimate business relationships.
• Is transparent and appropriate.
• Does not influence decision-making.

Any hospitality that could be perceived as excessive or inappropriate must be declined.

Reporting

Any suspected breach of this policy should be reported immediately to a Director.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually.

Strategic PA Network

Privacy Policy

Introduction

Strategic PA Network respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information.

Who We Are

Strategic PA Network is a professional network supporting business support professionals through networking events, learning opportunities, partnerships and community engagement.

Information We Collect

We may collect:

• Name
• Job title
• Company information
• Email address
• Telephone number
• Event registration details
• Membership information
• Marketing preferences
• Website usage data

How We Use Information

We use personal information to:

• Deliver membership services.
• Manage event registrations and attendance.
• Provide communications about events, opportunities and industry updates.
• Manage supplier and partner relationships.
• Improve our services and user experience.
• Meet legal and regulatory obligations.

Legal Basis

We process personal data under one or more of the following lawful bases:

• Consent
• Contract
• Legitimate interests
• Legal obligations

Sharing Information

We do not sell personal data.

Information may be shared with trusted service providers and partners where necessary to deliver services or events.

Data Security

We take reasonable technical and organisational measures to protect personal information.

Your Rights

Individuals have the right to:

• Access personal information.
• Correct inaccurate information.
• Request deletion where applicable.
• Restrict or object to processing.
• Withdraw consent where processing relies on consent.

Requests can be made by contacting Strategic PA Network.

Retention

Personal information will only be retained for as long as necessary for legitimate business purposes or legal requirements.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually.

Strategic PA Network

Cookie Policy

Purpose

This Cookie Policy explains how Strategic PA Network uses cookies and similar technologies on our website.

What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files placed on your device when you visit a website. They help websites function effectively, improve user experience and provide information about website usage.

How We Use Cookies

We may use cookies to:

• Ensure the website functions correctly.
• Remember user preferences.
• Analyse website traffic and performance.
• Improve website content and user experience.
• Support marketing and communication activities where appropriate.

Types of Cookies We May Use

• Essential Cookies: These cookies are necessary for the operation of our website and cannot be switched off.
• Performance and Analytics Cookies: These help us understand how visitors use our website so we can improve performance and content.
• Functionality Cookies: These enable enhanced functionality and personalisation.
• Marketing Cookies: Where applicable, these may be used to measure the effectiveness of marketing activities.

Managing Cookies

Visitors can manage cookie preferences through their browser settings. Disabling certain cookies may affect website functionality.

Contact

Questions regarding this Cookie Policy can be directed to Strategic PA Network. Please email hello@strategicpanetwork.com.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually.

Strategic PA Network

Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Plan

Purpose

Strategic PA Network is committed to maintaining continuity of services and minimising disruption in the event of an unexpected incident.

Potential Risks

Examples include:

• Loss of internet connectivity.
• Loss of access to business systems.
• Cybersecurity incidents.
• Venue cancellations.
• Severe weather.
• Supplier disruption.
• Illness or unavailability of key personnel.

Critical Activities

The following activities are considered essential:

• Membership communications.
• Event delivery and management.
• Supplier and partner engagement.
• Financial management.
• Website and digital platform operation.

Response Measures

In the event of disruption, Strategic PA Network will:

• Assess the impact and determine priorities.
• Communicate promptly with affected stakeholders.
• Utilise alternative communication methods where necessary.
• Access cloud-based systems from alternative locations.
• Reschedule events where delivery is not possible.
• Engage backup suppliers or venues where appropriate.

Data Recovery

Business-critical information is stored within secure cloud-based systems that provide backup and recovery functionality.

Roles and Responsibilities

The Directors are responsible for:

• Coordinating response activities.
• Communicating with stakeholders.
• Reviewing lessons learned following any incident.

Testing and Review

This plan will be reviewed annually and following any significant disruption.

Strategic PA Network

Accessibility Statement

Our Commitment

Strategic PA Network is committed to ensuring our website, communications and events are accessible to as many people as possible.

We believe everyone should have equal access to information, learning opportunities, networking events and professional development.

Website Accessibility

We aim to:

• Use clear and easy-to-understand language.
• Maintain logical website navigation.
• Ensure content is readable across devices.
• Use accessible colour contrast where possible.
• Provide alternative text for images where appropriate.
• Work towards recognised accessibility standards and best practice.

Event Accessibility

Where reasonably practicable, we will:

• Consider venue accessibility requirements.
• Provide information about accessibility arrangements.
• Encourage attendees to share any accessibility requirements in advance.
• Work with venues and suppliers to support inclusive participation.

Continuous Improvement

We are committed to continually improving accessibility and welcome feedback from users and event attendees.

Contact

If you experience any accessibility barriers when interacting with Strategic PA Network, please contact us so we can seek an appropriate solution.

Review

This statement will be reviewed annually.

Strategic PA Network

Safeguarding Statement

Purpose

Strategic PA Network is committed to creating a safe, welcoming and respectful environment for all individuals who engage with our organisation, including members, attendees, apprentices, students, young professionals, speakers, volunteers, charity partners, suppliers and stakeholders.

Whilst our primary audience consists of adults in professional roles, we recognise our responsibility to promote wellbeing, protect individuals from harm and respond appropriately to any safeguarding concerns.

Our Commitment

Strategic PA Network is committed to:

• Providing a safe and inclusive environment at all events and activities.
• Treating all individuals with dignity, respect and fairness.
• Promoting a culture of professionalism, wellbeing and mutual respect.
• Taking concerns about welfare, safety, harassment, discrimination or inappropriate behaviour seriously.
• Acting appropriately where safeguarding concerns are identified.
• Supporting individuals to raise concerns without fear of victimisation.

Scope

This statement applies to:

• Strategic PA Network directors and representatives.
• Members and event attendees.
• Apprentices and students participating in our activities.
• Young professionals engaging with our network.
• Speakers, facilitators and trainers.
• Charity partners, sponsors and suppliers.
• Volunteers supporting our activities.

Expected Behaviour

We expect everyone involved with Strategic PA Network to:

• Treat others with courtesy, professionalism and respect.
• Behave in a manner that promotes safety and wellbeing.
• Respect personal boundaries.
• Challenge or report inappropriate behaviour where appropriate.
• Help create an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued.

Concerns and Reporting

Any concerns relating to:

• Bullying or harassment
• Discrimination
• Abuse or exploitation
• Threatening or inappropriate behaviour
• Safety or welfare concerns should be reported to a Director of Strategic PA Network as soon as possible.

All concerns will be treated seriously, sensitively and confidentially, and appropriate action will be taken where necessary.

Partnership Working

We expect venues, suppliers, speakers, sponsors and partner organisations to uphold similar standards of conduct and care when participating in Strategic PA Network activities.

Review

This statement will be reviewed annually and updated as required to reflect best practice and organisational needs.

Strategic PA Network

Website Terms and Conditions

Introduction

These Terms and Conditions govern the use of the Strategic PA Network website.

By accessing or using our website, you agree to comply with these terms.

About Us

Strategic PA Network is a professional networking and development community supporting business support professionals through events, learning opportunities, partnerships and industry engagement.

Use of the Website

Users agree to:

• Use the website lawfully and responsibly.
• Not attempt to disrupt website functionality.
• Not misuse information contained on the website.
• Respect intellectual property rights.

Intellectual Property

Unless otherwise stated, all content on this website, including text, branding, graphics, logos and materials, remains the property of Strategic PA Network.

Content may not be copied, reproduced or distributed without prior permission.

Third-Party Links

The website may contain links to third-party websites. Strategic PA Network is not responsible for the content, security or privacy practices of external websites.

Liability

Whilst we make reasonable efforts to ensure information is accurate and up to date, Strategic PA Network makes no guarantees regarding completeness or accuracy.

To the fullest extent permitted by law, Strategic PA Network shall not be liable for any loss arising from use of the website.

Privacy

Use of personal information is governed by our Privacy Policy.

Changes to These Terms

We reserve the right to amend these Terms and Conditions at any time.

Governing Law

These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of England and Wales.

Review

These Terms and Conditions will be reviewed periodically.