Embracing inclusive hiring practices isn’t just about doing the right thing—it’s a strategic move that can significantly benefit businesses.
By fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce, organisations unlock a wider pool of talent, drive innovation, and improve employee satisfaction. Inclusive businesses are often more adaptable and better equipped to meet the needs of their customer base, leading to increased market competitiveness.
In Worcestershire, organisations can access expert support around inclusivity, via the INclusive Worcestershire programme. INclusive Worcestershire supports local businesses in adopting these practices, helping to create a stronger, more dynamic workforce.
The INclusive Worcestershire team have created a community around inclusivity, delivering webinars, events and seminars to provide information and actionable advice to businesses on the Inclusive journey. Alongside this, businesses a part of the programme now have a network of peers they can collaborate with and learn from.
There are leading employers in the county who have already pledged support to embrace the Inclusive agenda and act as a leader or champion to encourage others to do the same. These are INclusive Worcestershire Leaders.
One of the INclusive Worcestershire leaders would be the Royal Life Saving Society in Worcester. Andrea, their Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Executive, started working with INclusive Worcestershire back in January 2024.
Andrea said: “As the EDI Executive at the Royal Lifesaving Society UK (RLSS UK), I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of the INclusive Worcestershire initiative on leaders across the region whilst attending events and webinars. It’s a program that goes beyond simply promoting diversity and inclusion; it empowers individuals to become catalysts for positive change.”
“The INclusive Worcestershire Leaders program offers a unique opportunity for organisations to build a strong network, with invaluable resources, collaborative work and allows you to be part of a business community where there is always someone to ask advice or just chat over a scenario. Having the opportunity to make change and drive your organisation forward is empowering and at RLSS UK we have a supportive Leadership Team who want to make those changes and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable organisation.”
More businesses can become an INclusive Worcestershire leader via the Worcestershire Growth Hub. Organisations can understand all the steps they need to take and can start benefiting from being an Inclusive employer, as well as being aware of the wider business support on offer in the county.
Andrea, added: “To me, being an INclusive Worcestershire Leader means not only being a champion for equity, diversity, and inclusion; but recognising the unique value that each individual brings and creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.”
A wave of new INclusive Worcestershire seminars and forums will be announced in due course.
