Lesbian Visibility Week 2025
At the National Centre for Diversity, we’re proud to stand in solidarity with lesbian individuals and communities as we celebrate Lesbian Visibility Week April 22-28th. This important week shines a light on the experiences, contributions, and resilience of lesbian people — and serves as a reminder of why inclusion must be intentional, visible, and ongoing.
Diversity Fatigue: What It Is – and How We Can Tackle It Together
Over the past few years, we’ve seen a real surge in commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) across all sectors. Many organisations are doing more than ever to address inequality, improve representation, and create inclusive spaces. But with that progress has come a quieter, and sometimes uncomfortable, side effect: diversity fatigue.
Islamophobia Awareness Month: Steps for Change and Promoting Inclusion
In this blog, we explore the significant impact of Islamophobia in the workplace and outline practical steps organisations can take to create inclusive environments. Learn how anti-discrimination policies, training, leadership support, and cultural accommodations can help challenge biases and foster respect for all.
Black History Month: Dig Deeper, Look Closer and Think Bigger
This Black History Month, the National Centre for Diversity honors three remarkable Black Britons who challenged norms, broke barriers, and reshaped history: Mary Seacole, a pioneering nurse who cared for soldiers on the battlefields of Crimea; Stuart Hall, a cultural theorist who transformed our understanding of race, media, and identity; and Claudia Jones, a passionate activist whose legacy lives on in the Notting Hill Carnival. Their stories remind us to dig deeper, look closer, and think bigger about the impact of Black individuals on British society. Join us as we celebrate their legacies and reaffirm our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Surfing against the tide of hate | Solat Chaudhry
This perspective overlooks the positive contributions of diverse communities, such as those highlighted during South Asian Heritage Month, which celebrates the rich history and contributions of South Asians in the UK. The truth is, immigration has been a success story, enriching society in numerous ways.
I’ve spent my life defending the people who need defending | Solat Chaudhry
While in London for the Cup final, I intervened to defend an older woman distributing ceasefire leaflets from being harassed. Despite the personal risk and my recent heart surgery, I felt compelled to stand up for her, as I have for many others in the past. The increasing hate speech against Muslims on social media and from politicians makes me feel like a second-class citizen, but I remain committed to defending those in need and hope others will do the same for me. At the National Centre for Diversity, we focus on positive efforts towards inclusion and fairness, despite the challenges in today’s polarizing climate.
How Diversity Saved a Police Officer’s Eyesight
Former PC Solat Chaudhry recounts a harrowing night on duty when an officer in distress called for help, but the location was unclear among three possible Queen Streets. Chaudhry’s ability to communicate in Punjabi with a local resident provided crucial directions, leading to the rescue of his colleague from a life-threatening situation. This incident highlights how diversity within the police force enabled effective communication and rapid response, ultimately saving his colleague’s eyesight and potentially his life. Diversity’s value in emergency situations exemplifies its broader benefits across various fields.
The Disability Employment Gap
In 2020, the employment rate for people with disabilities was significantly lower than for those without (53.7% vs. 82.0%), with a notable pay gap where disabled workers earned £2.10 less per hour on average. Stable employment is crucial for reducing poverty and improving health, but disabled individuals often face part-time, low-paid, and insecure jobs due to discrimination and inadequate adjustments. Employers must address these gaps to ensure equitable opportunities for all, guided by the principles of the Equality Act 2010 and frameworks like FREDIE.
FREDIE Spotlight: ScotRail Alliance
Achieving excellence in Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) involves creating a workplace where everyone feels they belong and can thrive. ScotRail’s journey demonstrates this through clear leadership commitment, comprehensive strategy, and an inclusive culture. Success requires transparent communication, measurable goals, and active engagement from all employees.