YHA supplier code of conduct

1. Introduction

Operating with integrity governs our approach and underpins our aspiration to be recognised as a responsible corporate citizen in all our relationships. We expect our suppliers to share these commitments and adhere to the guidelines below. Suppliers must also ensure these requirements apply throughout their supply chain, including sub-contractors. By working collaboratively, we believe we can jointly have a positive impact on society.

2. Laws and Regulations

Suppliers must comply with all applicable local and national laws, rules, regulations, and requirements in the provision of products and services to YHA. This includes compliance with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Core Conventions. Suppliers are responsible for maintaining and enforcing these standards within their own supply chain.

3. Underage Labour

Suppliers shall ensure that no underage labour is used in the production or distribution of goods and services to YHA. A child is any person under the minimum employment age according to the laws of the country where the product or services are sourced, or in the absence of law, under the minimum age for completed mandatory education.

4. Forced Labour

Suppliers will not use or tolerate any form of slavery, servitude, indentured, bonded, involuntary prison, military or compulsory labour, or human trafficking. All work must be voluntary and without threat of penalty or sanctions. Government-issued identification, passports, or work permits must not be retained as a condition of employment. Workers’ rights to leave the workplace after their shift or terminate employment after reasonable notice and receive owed salary must be recognised. Suppliers must report any incidents of slavery or human trafficking in their business or supply chain to YHA immediately upon discovery.

5. Freedom of Association

Suppliers shall respect workers’ rights to associate or not associate with any group, as permitted by law, and shall not interfere with or discriminate against workers choosing to belong to such groups. Where freedom of association and collective bargaining is restricted under national law, suppliers will facilitate alternative means of independent and free association and bargaining.

6. Discrimination

Suppliers must ensure an inclusive and diverse work environment with equal opportunities for all workers. Employees must not be discriminated against based on age, gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, colour, disability, religion, political affiliation, union membership, national origin, marital or pregnancy status. Suppliers must prohibit and not tolerate any form of harassment—physical, mental, sexual, or verbal.

7. Wages and Benefits

Wages and benefits must meet legal minimums and industry standards without unauthorised deductions.

8. Working Hours

Suppliers must ensure working hours comply with national laws and standards and should not expect workers to work beyond legal limits unless an opt-out has been chosen by the employee with written evidence.

9. Healthy and Safe Working Conditions

Suppliers must provide safe and clean working and residential conditions. Clear procedures must ensure compliance with occupational health, safety, and wellbeing standards. Suppliers must comply with all applicable health and safety laws and YHA’s Health and Safety Policy.

10. Environment

Suppliers must have procedures to understand, measure, and manage environmental impacts associated with goods and services. Suppliers must comply with all applicable environmental laws and YHA’s Environment Policy.

11. Business Integrity

Suppliers shall not engage in bribery or corruption and must comply with YHA’s Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy.

12. Discipline and Grievances

Suppliers must provide a grievance mechanism that allows workers to raise concerns anonymously without fear of retaliation. The mechanism must be transparent, clearly communicated, and accessible to all workers. Disciplinary procedures must be documented, communicated, and accessible. All disciplinary matters must be recorded, and workers must have the right to representation at meetings that may lead to significant penalties or dismissal.

13. Compliance with Code

Suppliers must demonstrate compliance with this Code, including providing documented evidence and permitting YHA or a designated firm to conduct audits. Audits may include facility inspections, review of records, and employee interviews.

14. Reporting Concerns

Suppliers are invited to report any concerns related to this Code to YHA. Key contact: [email protected]