Responsible lobbying policy

 

1. Purpose and scope

At Conscious Communications, we exist to amplify the work of organisations creating positive change, using communications as a force for social and environmental progress. We choose to work with organisations whose missions inspire us and whose values align with our commitment to creating positive impact.

As a certified B Corporation (B Corp), we believe businesses have a responsibility to use their influence transparently, ethically and in ways that contribute positively to society and the environment.

While we are a public relations and marketing consultancy and do not offer dedicated lobbying or public affairs services, we recognise that organisations can influence policy, public debate and decision-making both directly and indirectly.

We are committed to ensuring that any policy engagement, advocacy activity, consultation response, industry representation or participation in organisations that influence public policy is conducted in a manner that:

• Supports positive social and environmental outcomes
• Aligns with our purpose, values and impact commitments
• Is evidence-based, transparent and lawful
• Respects the interests of stakeholders and the wider community

Our approach is guided by:

• The B Lab Standards
• The principles of the B Corp movement
• The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• The CIPR Code of Conduct
• All applicable laws and regulations

This policy applies to:

• All directors, employees, contractors and representatives of the company
• Any activity undertaken on behalf of the company that may seek to influence public policy, legislation, regulation or public decision-making
• Participation in professional bodies, business networks, trade associations and industry groups that engage in advocacy or policy activities
• Any third-party organisation engaged to represent the company’s interests in matters relating to public policy or regulation

We will only engage in policy-related activity that is lawful, transparent, evidence-based and consistent with our commitment to positive impact.

3. Political contributions and integrity

The company does not make political donations to political parties, candidates, campaigns or political action groups.

The company does not provide in-kind support, services or other benefits intended to secure political influence or preferential treatment.

Any exception to this position would require prior approval by the Board and full compliance with applicable law.

All employees and representatives are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity.

4. Transparency, memberships and third-party advocacy

As an organisation committed to using communications as a force for social and environmental progress, we recognise that our memberships, partnerships and professional affiliations can contribute to policy discussions and wider societal influence. We therefore seek to be transparent about these relationships and to ensure they remain aligned with our values and impact commitments.

We recognise that professional bodies, industry organisations and business networks may engage in advocacy, policy development and lobbying activities on behalf of members.

As part of our commitment to transparency, we will maintain and publish a list of material memberships of organisations that engage in public policy, advocacy or lobbying activity.

These are:

• Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR)
• B Lab UK and the wider B Corp community
• Cambridge Network

We will periodically review the public policy positions, advocacy activities and published statements of organisations of which we are members.

The review will consider whether their positions remain broadly aligned with:

• This policy
• Our organisational values
• Our B Corp commitments
• Relevant social and environmental objectives

Where significant misalignment is identified, we will:

• Seek clarification from the organisation
• Raise concerns through appropriate channels
• Communicate our own position where appropriate
• Assess whether continued membership remains in the best interests of the business and our stakeholders

Third-party advocacy

The company does not routinely engage third-party organisations to undertake lobbying on its behalf.

Should we appoint an external adviser, consultant, agency, trade body or representative to engage in policy advocacy on behalf of our clients, we will:

• Conduct appropriate due diligence
• Ensure their activities are consistent with this policy
• Require compliance with applicable laws and ethical standards
• Maintain appropriate oversight and accountability for their actions

We will not knowingly support or fund third-party advocacy that conflicts with our commitment to responsible business conduct or positive social and environmental impact.

5. Governance, controls and risk management

Accountability

Overall accountability for this policy rests with the Managing Director.

The Board of Directors is responsible for oversight and approval of the policy.

6. Stakeholder concerns and grievance channels

We are committed to accountability and transparency in all aspects of our operations.

Employees, clients, suppliers, community representatives and other stakeholders may raise concerns about activities covered by this policy.

Concerns can be raised through the company’s Grievance and Whistleblowing Procedure.

All concerns will be considered fairly, investigated as appropriate and addressed in accordance with established procedures.

Transparency statement

This policy is published on our website and is available to all stakeholders.

We will maintain transparency regarding:

• Our relevant trade association and professional memberships
• Our approach to policy engagement and advocacy
• Our commitment to ethical business conduct and responsible influence

Appendix A: Membership transparency register

Organisation	Purpose of membership	Undertakes advocacy/ policy activity?	Last reviewed
CIPR	Professional standards and development	Yes	23.09.26
B Lab UK	Responsible business community and standards	Yes	23.09.26
Cambridge Network	Regional business networking	Limited	23.09.26