Diversity, equity and inclusion policy

At Ave, we believe that creativity thrives in an environment where everyone feels respected, represented and able to show up as themselves. That’s why diversity, equity and inclusion aren’t just ideals, they’re essential to how we work.

We’re committed to creating a culture where everyone regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, disability, age, sexuality, socioeconomic background, neurodiversity, parental status, or belief feels heard, supported and empowered to do their best work.

Inclusion is how we work

We’re building a workplace where:

• Individual differences are recognised and celebrated
• Everyone has equal access to opportunities, progression and support
• Inclusion is part of every decision, not an afterthought
• Discrimination, harassment and bullying are not tolerated, ever

Whether you’re a team member, freelancer, collaborator or client, we want your experience with Ave to feel fair, respectful and welcoming.

Language matters

We use inclusive language across our work and communication, avoiding assumptions and making space for people to self-identify. That includes asking and using people’s correct names and pronouns, whether in meetings, bios or email signatures.

We actively challenge ableist, sexist, racist or otherwise exclusionary language and stay open to learning when we get things wrong.

Anti-racism and intersectionality

We understand that structural inequality affects people differently and that those with overlapping identities can experience compounded forms of discrimination.

We’re committed to anti-racist practice in our hiring, leadership, and creative work. That means:

• Seeking out diverse voices, collaborators and suppliers
• Reviewing our internal culture and decision-making for bias
• Listening to lived experience, not just data
• Making changes when we know we need to do better

We also understand that inclusion doesn’t mean assimilation and that equity sometimes means different approaches for different people, depending on their starting point.

Accessible for all

We do our best to make sure everyone can access our workplace, tools and projects. That includes:

• Making reasonable adjustments for disabled and neurodivergent colleagues
• Following best practice in accessible design and communication
• Staying up to date on guidance around inclusive meetings, remote working, and digital content

If something isn’t working for someone, we want to know and we’ll do our best to fix it.

Fair opportunities

Our recruitment, promotion and project allocation are based on talent, potential and values not on background, connections or credentials alone.

We:

• Advertise roles widely to reach underrepresented communities
• Use inclusive, clear language in job descriptions
• Remove unnecessary criteria that might exclude great candidates
• Offer feedback and fair pay at every level
• Support career development for all employees and freelancers

Accountability and ongoing action

This policy is reviewed annually and led by Ellie Thompson, our Director. But it’s something we all contribute to.

We’re open to challenge. We welcome feedback. And we’re committed to keeping inclusion central, not only because it’s right, but because it leads to better, more meaningful work.