Gifts and hospitality toolbox

Toolbox

Our policies, standards and other resources

We have more in-depth Group policies, standards and guidance covering different aspects of confidential information. You can find links to them here.

In addition, there may be specific policies and procedures that apply where you work. Your manager can tell you about these. If you are unsure then always ask your manager.

(Please note: some of our resources are only available to Serco employees. In this case, you’ll need to log in to MySerco to access them. If you have problems accessing them, please request a copy from your manager.)

Business Conduct and Ethics
One page statement defining Serco’s commitment to operating with integrity.

SMS-GS-BC2 Business Conduct and Ethics
Sets out the expected standards for individual and corporate behaviour in our business.

Group Procedure - Gifts and Hospitality
Details the procedure for the recording and approval of all gifts and hospitality that are offered or received.

Definitions

Gifts and hospitality mean anything of value that you give or accept, either directly or in kind.

Any gift or hospitality you accept from someone should be something that you would be able to give them as a proper and appropriate business expense. “Proper and appropriate” is what matters.

For instance, if an existing supplier invites you to share a box at a football match, you should record this, but it may be appropriate. However, if a prospective supplier hoping to get a contract from you does the same, that is not appropriate.

Gifts and hospitality will usually be appropriate when:

they are not cash, securities, personal cheques or payments to or for the benefit of an individual or political party;
they are consistent with building business relations or designed to enhance knowledge in the organisation’s field;
they are infrequent or occasional;
they are unsolicited and provided openly and transparently;
they do not risk negatively affecting Serco’s reputation and are socially acceptable, reasonable in value and not lavish or extravagant or embarrassing for the recipient (i.e. you would be happy to reciprocate with the same level of gift or hospitality that is being offered);
they do not violate any local law or regulation or where known, the standards of the recipient’s organisation;
they are not given or received during the procurement period or other period leading up to or following a commercial decision;
they are not given or received specifically in recognition of services performed – e.g. for meeting targets or objectives – without informing Group Tax for reporting purposes;
there is no expectation in return of improper performance, undue advantage or influence or other corrupt intent or a perception of same.

Additionally, local rules may also limit the value of gifts or hospitality you can accept.

There are some types of gifts that are never acceptable. These include cash, securities, and personal cheques or payments for the benefit of individuals.

For more information, see our gifts and hospitality registration process at https://gandh.serco.com

If you're a manager

Make sure everyone understands the rules and reporting requirements around the giving and receiving of gifts and hospitality.
Never offer, receive or approve gifts or hospitality that may improperly influence a business decision or judgement.
Be clear on the defined limits for gifts and hospitality where you work as these vary across the company.
Ensure that any gift or hospitality is not outside the norm, or that it could be regarded as trying to exert improper influence.
Register gifts and hospitality we give or receive anywhere in the world at https://gandh.serco.com. As a minimum, all gifts or hospitality with a value over £100 must have management approval and must be registered. However, this limit may be less depending on local procedures.