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Social, ethical & environmental matters

Community affairs

Signet's prime benefit to society is through the contribution it makes to the success and efficiency of the economies in which it operates, through the employment it generates both within the business and throughout its supply chain, the taxes it pays and the value it creates for shareholders. However both divisions have an active local community relationship programme and during 2007/08 various employment sourcing relationships with a number of community organisations relating to people who are disabled, being rehabilitated or suffering from development difficulties were further advanced. The US division received an award for being one of the top employers in the community for individuals with disabilities. Both divisions were involved in sponsorships with hospitals and quality of life community events for patients with terminal illnesses. In the UK various employee policies were introduced, allowing carers' to apply for a career break of up to six months and for employees to volunteer up to two days paid leave to help a registered charity or cause. A diversity champion has also been appointed in both the US and the UK.

During 2008/09 community partnership initiatives will continue, aimed at strengthening employment opportunities for disadvantaged citizens. Community affairs activities will be maintained with the Group being committed to the support of charitable organisations.