Grievance Policy for Regenerate Outcomes

Purpose:

This policy outlines the procedure for addressing grievances related to the Regenerate Outcomes soil health education programme. It is designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and timely resolution of concerns raised by stakeholders regarding the implementation of the programme including the Verra Carbon Standard (VCS).

Scope:

This policy applies to all users, partners, or public stakeholders interacting with the programme and its associated activities falling under the purview of VCS.

Grievance Submission:

1. Users with grievances related to the programme can submit their concerns via email to complaints@regenerateoutcomes.co.uk. Please state ‘Complaint’ in the email subject.

2. The grievance submission should include:

   - Detailed description of the grievance.

   - Relevant dates, locations, or specifics pertaining to the issue.

   - Supporting documentation or evidence if available.

Grievance Handling:

1. Upon receiving a grievance, Regenerate Outcomes will acknowledge receipt within 5 working days.

2. An internal investigation will be initiated to assess the validity of the grievance and determine how to resolve it.

3. Regenerate Outcomes will communicate the findings to the concerned party within 10 working days of the acknowledgement of the complaint.

Corrective Actions:

A comprehensive action plan will be devised and implemented to prevent similar grievances in the future. If non-compliance with the terms of the programme is identified, Regenerate Outcomes will take immediate corrective measures.

Communication:

  1. Regenerate Outcomes commits to maintaining open and transparent communication throughout the grievance resolution process.

  2. Regular updates on the status of the grievance will be provided to the concerned party until resolution is achieved.

  3. Should a bilateral resolution not be achieved Regenerate Outcomes will recommend an appropriate action for mediation or third party arbitration, as may be appropriate.

Records and Documentation:

All grievance submissions, investigations, and resolutions will be documented and retained for a period of 5 years for audit and accountability purposes.

Review and Revision:

This policy will be periodically reviewed to ensure its effectiveness and relevance. Any necessary revisions will be made to address changing circumstances or improve the grievance resolution process

Mediation:

Any grievances unresolved by amicable negotiations shall be referred to mediation by a neutral third party.

Arbitration or Adjudication:

Any grievances that are not resolved through mediation shall be referred either to:

a) Arbitration, to the extent permitted by UK law, or

b) Competent courts in the UK, without prejudice to a party’s right to submit the grievance to a competent supranational adjudicatory body, if applicable.