top of page
Screenshot 2025-10-11 at 09.25.06.png

One Step Counselling and Therapies C.I.C.
Environmental & Sustainability Policy

 

Last Updated: October 1, 2025​

 

One Step Counselling and Therapies C.I.C recognises our responsibility to protect and preserve the environment for current and future generations. As a Community Interest Company committed to supporting mental health and wellbeing, we understand the vital connection between environmental health and human wellbeing.

We are committed to minimising our environmental impact whilst delivering high-quality therapeutic services and community programs across the UK.

 

This policy applies to:

  • All employees, contractors, volunteers, and service users

  • All One Step Counselling and Therapies C.I.C operations and activities

  • Our Neath town centre community hub and all service delivery locations

  • All business travel, events, and partnership activities

 

3.1 Energy Management

  • Implement energy-efficient practices in our community hub and all operational spaces

  • Use LED lighting and energy-efficient equipment where possible

  • Encourage natural lighting and ventilation

  • Switch off equipment and lighting when not in use

  • Consider renewable energy sources where feasible

​

3.2 Waste Reduction and Management

  • Minimise waste generation through reduce, reuse, and recycle principles

  • Promote the circular economy through our second-hand clothing provision

  • Implement comprehensive recycling systems for paper, cardboard, plastic, and other materials

  • Reduce single-use items and encourage reusable alternatives

  • Properly dispose of any therapeutic materials or equipment in accordance with environmental regulations

​

3.3 Sustainable Transportation

  • Encourage staff, contractors, and service users to use public transport, cycling, or walking where safe and practical

  • Promote local service delivery to reduce travel requirements

  • Consider environmental impact when planning travel for wellness retreats and outdoor activities

  • Support car-sharing and use of electric or hybrid vehicles where appropriate

​

3.4 Sustainable Procurement

  • Prioritise suppliers and products with strong environmental credentials

  • Purchase locally sourced goods and services where possible

  • Choose products with minimal packaging and environmental impact

  • Select Fair Trade and ethically sourced materials for community activities and refreshments

​

3.5 Natural Environment Protection

  • Ensure all ecotherapy and nature-based sessions follow Leave No Trace principles

  • Protect local ecosystems during outdoor activity sessions

  • Use our connection to nature as a tool for environmental education and awareness

  • Support local biodiversity through our community activities where appropriate

​

3.6 Water Conservation

  • Implement water-saving measures in our community hub

  • Fix leaks promptly and use water-efficient fixtures

  • Educate staff and service users about water conservation

 

We will:

  • Integrate environmental awareness into our community programs where appropriate

  • Share sustainability tips and information during open days and community sessions

  • Encourage environmentally conscious behaviours among service users and community members

  • Collaborate with local environmental groups and initiatives

  • Use our platform to promote the connection between environmental and mental health

 

5.1 Responsibilities

  • Managing Director: Overall responsibility for environmental policy implementation and review

  • All Staff and Contractors: Implement environmental practices in daily operations and service delivery

  • Community Hub Coordinator: Monitor environmental practices at the Neath location

  • All Service Users and Volunteers: Support environmental initiatives where possible

​

5.2 Monitoring and Measurement

  • Regularly monitor energy and water consumption

  • Track waste generation and recycling rates

  • Assess environmental impact of travel and events

  • Gather feedback from staff, volunteers, and service users on environmental initiatives

​

5.3 Training and Awareness

  • Provide environmental awareness information to all new staff, contractors, and volunteers

  • Include sustainability considerations in relevant training programs

  • Share environmental updates and tips through internal communications

 

We will:

  • Comply with all relevant environmental legislation and regulations

  • Set annual environmental objectives and targets

  • Regularly review and update our environmental practices

  • Report on environmental performance as part of our annual impact reporting

  • Seek continuous improvement in our environmental performance

 

This policy will be:

  • Made available to all staff, contractors, volunteers, and stakeholders

  • Published on our website at www.onestepcounselling.org

  • Communicated through induction processes and ongoing training

  • Shared with service users and community members as appropriate

 

Failure to comply with this policy may result in:

  • Additional training and support

  • Performance management procedures

  • For serious or repeated breaches, disciplinary action in accordance with employment procedures

 

This policy will be reviewed annually or following:

  • Changes in environmental legislation or best practice guidance

  • Significant changes to our operations or services

  • Feedback from stakeholders or environmental incidents

  • Recommendations from environmental assessments or audits

 

  • Health and Safety Policy

  • Safeguarding Policy

  • Data Privacy Notice

  • Complaints Policy and Procedure

​

Document Control: Approved by: Emma-Jane Lovell, Managing Director   Next Review Date: 1st October 2026

For questions about this policy, contact: Hello@onestepcounselling.org

​

Document Reference: ENV-001   Version: 1.0   Effective Date: 1st October 2025   Review Date: 1st October 2026   Approved by: Emma-Jane Lovell, Managing Director

bottom of page