Clear policies and protocols
We expect high standards from colleagues, to build trust with our customers and ensure we deliver good outcomes for them. Our teams receive training each year in areas such as data protection, information security, whistleblowing, anti-bribery and corruption, anti-fraud and anti-money laundering. For colleagues working within businesses regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), additional training is delivered in areas including the Consumer Duty, how to support vulnerable customers, handling customer complaints, and compliance with conduct rules. The policies on which this training is based are reviewed and monitored regularly to ensure they remain appropriate and fit for purpose.
Strong risk management
We have a Group wide risk management framework, which is reviewed annually. Our Risk and Compliance function comprises specialists in monitoring and oversight, financial crime prevention, data protection, technical standards, and regulatory engagement. Our Audit and Risk Committee meets quarterly to review risk reporting and ensure we are operating within agreed thresholds and tolerances. Skipton Group Internal Audit provide independent assurance on the adequacy and effectiveness of risk management and internal controls.
Diversity and inclusion
We are committed to promoting equality of opportunity and dignity in the workplace, and to ensuring all customers and staff are treated equally. We want to create an environment where people from any and all backgrounds can thrive and where all team members feel safe, encourage and supported to engage fully in how we run our business. This includes our flexible working policy, to ensure we have access to top talent and are able to recruit and retain employees who need or want to mould their working patterns around important out-of-work commitments.
Supply chain management
As the UK’s biggest estate agency, we understand the importance of using our procurement practices to drive high standards across the whole value chain. Our sustainable procurement policy ensures that our suppliers enforce the requirements we set for ourselves.