Responsible Lobbying Policy

Why this policy exists

Makers occasionally engage with government, public bodies and sector organisations on issues relating to skills, apprenticeships, education and technology.

This policy explains how we approach any activity intended to influence public policy or public decision-making. We will only undertake lobbying or advocacy where it is intended to contribute positively to society or the environment and is consistent with our purpose, values and wider impact commitments.

This policy applies to employees, directors, contractors and any organisation acting on behalf of Makers.

Our approach to responsible lobbying

Lobbying includes direct or indirect activity intended to influence public policy or public decision-making. This may include responding to government consultations, contributing to sector or standards groups, engaging with policymakers or participating in advocacy through membership organisations.

Where Makers undertakes lobbying or advocacy, we will:

• pursue a positive social or environmental impact

• use reliable or scientific evidence appropriate to the issue

• represent evidence and stakeholder views fairly and accurately

• act lawfully, transparently and without improper influence

• consider relevant B Lab outcomes, the UN Sustainable Development Goals or similar recognised frameworks where appropriate

Evidence may include reputable public data, independent or sector research, peer-reviewed research, stakeholder insight and Makers' own operational data where clearly identified as such.

Political contributions and ethical conduct

Makers do not make financial or in-kind contributions to political parties, political candidates, elected representatives or political campaigns.

We do not tolerate bribery, corruption or improper influence in connection with lobbying or public policy activity. This includes using gifts, hospitality, sponsorship, donations or third parties to improperly influence a public decision.

Working through other organisations

Makers may participate in membership, sector or professional organisations that engage with government or public policy.

Where an organisation acts as an intermediary for lobbying or advocacy, we will consider whether its relevant positions are consistent with this policy.

If a material position conflicts with our own commitments, we will consider the appropriate response. This may include raising the issue with the organisation, clarifying our own position, seeking to influence its approach or ending the relationship where serious or persistent misalignment cannot be resolved.

Where required under the B Lab Standards, we will publicly explain any material difference in position, the steps we are taking to address it and the circumstances in which we would cease engagement.

Accountability and oversight

The Chief Operating Officer is accountable for implementing this policy and overseeing relevant lobbying and public policy activity.

This includes ensuring appropriate evidence is used, considering risks of non-compliance and maintaining proportionate records of material activity.

The Senior Management Team supports implementation of the policy, and significant concerns or potential breaches will be escalated to the Board.

Raising concerns

Employees and other stakeholders may raise concerns about Makers' lobbying or political engagement through our established grievance or whistleblowing processes or through people-team@makers.tech.

Concerns will be considered appropriately and people raising concerns in good faith will be protected from retaliation.

This policy is publicly available on the Makers website and internally to employees.