Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Policy

Bluebean Publishing Ltd (trading as Dorset Life)

Last updated: July 2026

Our Commitment

Bluebean Publishing Ltd is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in every aspect of our business.

We believe that everyone should be treated with dignity, fairness and respect, regardless of background or personal characteristics. We are committed to creating a working environment that is welcoming, inclusive and free from unlawful discrimination.

This policy applies to our directors, employees, freelancers, contractors, contributors and anyone working on behalf of Bluebean Publishing Ltd.

Equality

We are committed to complying with the Equality Act 2010 and will not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic, including:

  • age;
  • disability;
  • gender reassignment;
  • marriage or civil partnership;
  • pregnancy and maternity;
  • race, colour, nationality or ethnic origin;
  • religion or belief;
  • sex;
  • sexual orientation.

Employment and commissioning decisions will always be based on merit, experience, suitability and the needs of the business.

Inclusion

As an independent publisher, we value a wide range of perspectives, experiences and voices.

We aim to ensure that our workplace, our journalism and our relationships with contributors, advertisers, readers and partners are conducted in an open, respectful and inclusive manner.

We welcome contributions from people of all backgrounds and seek to represent Dorset’s communities fairly and responsibly.

Bullying, Harassment and Victimisation

Bluebean Publishing Ltd has a zero-tolerance approach to unlawful discrimination, bullying, harassment or victimisation.

Anyone working with or on behalf of the business is expected to behave professionally and respectfully towards colleagues, contributors, readers, advertisers, suppliers and members of the public.

Any concerns raised will be taken seriously and investigated appropriately.

Recruitment and Opportunities

Where recruitment takes place, Bluebean Publishing Ltd is committed to providing equal opportunities.

Selection decisions will be based solely on the skills, experience and suitability required for the role.

Reasonable adjustments will be considered where appropriate to support disabled applicants or workers.

Working Relationships

We expect everyone representing Bluebean Publishing Ltd to:

  • treat others with courtesy and respect;
  • value differing opinions and backgrounds;
  • avoid discriminatory language or behaviour;
  • contribute to a positive and inclusive working environment.

Our Journalism

As publishers of Dorset Life, we are committed to producing journalism that is fair, accurate and respectful.

Editorial decisions are made independently and are guided by the public interest, relevance and journalistic standards, not by prejudice or discrimination.

We recognise the importance of representing the breadth of Dorset’s communities and experiences while maintaining our editorial independence.

Responsibility

The Directors of Bluebean Publishing Ltd are responsible for promoting equality, diversity and inclusion throughout the business.

Everyone working with the company shares responsibility for supporting these principles.

Review

This policy will be reviewed periodically and updated where necessary to reflect changes in legislation or business operations.

Bluebean Publishing Ltd
Trading as Dorset Life

Policy owner: Directors

Version: 2.0

Last reviewed: July 2026

Next review: July 2027