Vulnguard

Addressing Non-Financial Misconduct in UK Financial Services: A GRC Perspective In recent years, regulatory bodies like the FCA and PRA have shifted their focus to non-financial misconduct within UK financial services firms. Behaviors such as harassment, bullying, and discrimination are now seen as critical indicators of deeper organizational issues. At Vulnguard, we recognize that managing these risks is vital not just for compliance but for fostering a culture of integrity. The Regulatory Shift and Its Impact: The FCA and PRA now view non-financial misconduct as a serious threat to a firm’s operational health. Previously considered HR issues, misconduct such as workplace bullying or discrimination is now closely linked to broader governance and risk management concerns. Firms that fail to address these behaviors risk financial penalties and reputational damage. Vulnguard offers tailored solutions to help firms manage non-financial misconduct effectively within their GRC frameworks. Our key services include: Policy Development: We help firms create clear policies that define misconduct, reporting procedures, and consequences. These policies must be consistently enforced to ensure compliance. Training and Awareness: Our training programs ensure employees and management understand acceptable behavior and reporting mechanisms, creating a culture of accountability. Reporting Systems: Implementing secure, confidential reporting channels is essential for uncovering and addressing issues early. Leadership and Culture Assessments: We evaluate management structures and workplace culture to identify risk areas and recommend improvements. Investigation Support and Regulatory Compliance When allegations of non-financial misconduct arise, Vulnguard supports organizations by: Ensuring impartial, transparent investigations. Guiding firms through regulatory communication to meet FCA and PRA expectations. Helping implement corrective actions and prevent future misconduct. Integrating Non-Financial Misconduct into GRC At Vulnguard, we believe non-financial misconduct must be fully integrated into a firm’s GRC strategy. Our goal is to help organizations build a culture of integrity, ensuring compliance with regulations while promoting long-term stability and success.