HL Interactive Corporate Social Responsibility Policy

Commitment
We are committed to high standards of corporate governance and to ensuring that the firm conducts its business in a socially and environmentally responsible manner.  

Scope 
The scope of this policy embraces all employees.

Approach 
The firm has set out the following strategy in relation to community and social responsibility:
•   We will endeavour to conduct our business activities in a way that fosters economic, social and environmental benefits;
•   We will act responsibly towards our employees by ensuring we have decent minimum levels of performance in relation to   health & safety and the working environment;
•   We will try to ensure that all our staff retain an appropriate work/life balance;
•   We will value the contribution and diversity of every individual with whom we work;
•   We will seek to help the environment by engaging in recycling activities and taking a responsible approach to travel;
•   We will continue to support the local and wider communities through charitable work, sponsorship and other initiatives;
•   We will ensure the continuing development of our approach to community and social responsibility by applying best practice and seeking innovative approaches.

Responsibilities
The board is responsible for steering the firm’s corporate approach to social responsibility and guiding the behaviour of its employees. All staff have a responsibility to act in a way that is consistent with the firm’s values and to help the firm to operate in a socially responsible manner.

Achievements
Having previously raised over £6,000 for Cancer Research during 2009 to 2011, staff have now voted to raise funds for McMillan Nurses and Guide Dogs for the Blind for the next two years.  Numerous activities are being planned including a parachute jump in August and walk up Snowden in September.
By encouraging the use of public transport, car sharing, conference calls and recycling we have reduced our carbon footprint by 10%. This has also been reduced through use of energy saving light bulbs and purchasing only recycled stationery.

We aim to reduce this further by continuing to:
•   Recycle toner, computer equipment and paper
•   Collect unwanted CDs, DVDs and clothes for donation to charitable causes

We recognise the importance of investing in the future and enable local students to gain valuable work experience through 12 month placements with the firm. We have been actively supporting Salford University since its inception of this programme and so far three students have gone on to pass their degree with professional placement.

This policy is subject to periodic review by the Board. (Last reviewed 15th March 2012)