Gender Equality Plan (GEP)

Organisation: Scottish Pelagic Fishermen’s Association

Effective Date:  23.07.2026

Review Date: Annually

1. Commitment

Scottish Pelagic Fishermen’s Association is committed to providing a fair, inclusive, and respectful working environment where all employees, contractors, and collaborators are treated equally regardless of gender.

We aim to ensure equal opportunities in recruitment, career development, working conditions, and decision-making.

Responsibility for implementing this plan rests with the Chief Executive Officer.

2. Publication

This Gender Equality Plan is:

  • Approved by the board of directors.
  • Published on the organisation’s website.
  • Communicated to all staff and relevant stakeholders.
  • Reviewed annually.

3. Resources and Responsibilities

As a small organisation with limited resources:

  • The Chief Executive Officer will oversee implementation of this plan.
  • External guidance and training resources will be used where appropriate and affordable.

4. Data Collection and Monitoring

Once per year, the organisation will review

  • Number of employees by gender.
  • Recruitment and appointment outcomes by gender (where applicable).

5. Training and Awareness Raising

This may be delivered through staff meetings, induction materials, online resources, or other proportionate methods

Gender Equality Awareness

All personnel will receive information on:

  • The organisation’s commitment to gender equality.
  • Equal opportunities principles.
  • Respectful workplace behaviour.

This may be delivered through staff meetings, induction materials, online resources, or other proportionate methods.

Unconscious Bias Training

Staff involved in recruitment, management, supervision, or decision-making will receive periodic information or training on unconscious gender bias.

6. Key Actions

Recruitment

The organisation will:

  • Use gender-neutral language in job advertisements.
  • Encourage applications from all qualified candidates.
  • Select candidates based on skills, qualifications, and experience.

Work-Life Balance

The organisation will:

  • Support flexible working arrangements where operationally possible.
  • Respect family and caring responsibilities.
  • Ensure equal access to flexible working opportunities.

Equal Treatment and Career Development

The organisation will:

  • Provide equal access to training and professional development.
  • Make decisions on pay, responsibilities, and advancement based on objective criteria.

Prevention of Harassment

The organisation has zero tolerance for:

  • Harassment.
  • Bullying.
  • Discrimination.

Any concerns can be raised with management and/or the Chair and will be treated confidentially and investigated appropriately.

7. Review

This Gender Equality Plan will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains appropriate for the organisation’s size and activities and continues to meet Horizon Europe requirements.

Approved by: ___________________

Position: ______________________

Date: _________________________