Automata is committed to creating a safe, diverse, and inclusive environment for our people and clients.
We oppose all forms of prejudice, discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment. We are actively working towards creating a culture that represents the diversity of communities and intersections within Automata, as well as the wider community and society.
To help us fulfil this commitment, we want to adopt a 'Press Pause' approach that empowers our employees to speak out when an incident occurs*. The process detailed below will also be included in our onboarding program and any company learning and development programs and training, so that new employees of Automata are aware of our zero-tolerance policy.
here are a few examples of what you can say; a. “Can we Press Pause here…” b. “That’s not an appropriate comment...” c. “That language is not appropriate in the UK/US…” d. “What’s been said may cause offence…” e. “Sorry, can we take a quick break…”
This list is not exhaustive. What is said to stop the exchange should make sense in the context of the conversation. The main aim is to create some space and move the conversation into an appropriate place.
Sometimes inappropriate comments are made unintentionally, ****without the intention of causing offence or harm. In these situations, it is important to educate individuals. By ‘pressing pause’ and highlighting the inappropriate behaviour or language, the individual has a chance to take responsibility for their actions and learn from the experience for the future.
a. Voice their concern to the individual directly, explaining that the behaviour demonstrated or comment made is not in line with Automata’s ‘People & Culture Commitment’ - if they feel safe to do so b. Move the conversation on to an appropriate topic and later raise their concern with the ‘Appropriate Person’** c. Remove themselves from the situation and later raise their concern with the ‘Appropriate Person’**
If there is no appropriate person* to report to, the individual should raise the concern directly with their line manager and the HR team.*
Post-incident involving a Client, the next steps are as follows; a. The ‘Appropriate Person’** will speak with their Line Manager and make a note of the incident b. The ‘Appropriate Person’, with the support of their Line Manager will then engage with the HR team to draft recommendations for the next steps to be shared with the Client c. The ‘Appropriate Person’ and/or Line Manager, will engage with the Client and collaboratively investigate the incident d. The ‘Appropriate Person’** and Line Manager will share the draft recommendations advised by the HR team and re-communicate Automata’s People & Culture Commitment. (This may be an opportunity to ask the client if they have an equivalent policy) e. Together the ‘Appropriate Person’** and/or Line Manager and Client will agree on actions. Agreed actions will be communicated back to all those involved (where appropriate)
The individual(s) who raised their concern and the ‘Appropriate Person’** should be reassured of due diligence and offered any support if needed
*An “incident” is defined as: any exchange where something is said, implied (including microaggressions), or behaviour demonstrated that is deemed prejudiced, discriminatory, derogatory, harmful, or harassing (including sexual harassment) towards any one person or more.
**‘Appropriate Person’ is whoever is chairing/responsible for the meeting. In the case of client meetings, the nominated person is the client relationship holder.
HR Team - Your Senior People Partner (EMEA); Jess Tannahill, Senior HR Business Partner (US); Meagan Rebelo & Head of People; Karian Lewis-King
This guide works in conjunction with Automata's Harassment & Bullying Policy, which outlines the company's stance on harassment and bullying, including how to report incidents, the investigation process, and the consequences for violating the policy. The Press Pause guide is a tool to empower individuals to speak out when they witness or experience behaviour that is deemed inappropriate or offensive. By using the Press Pause approach, individuals can create space to address incidents in a safe and respectful manner.