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How Solat Chaudhry is Redefining Leadership Through Diversity and Inclusion

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For over two decades, Solat Chaudhry, founder and CEO of the National Centre for Diversity, has been a trailblazer in advancing workplace equality and inclusion. With his groundbreaking FREDIE framework—Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Engagement—Solat is shaping the future of leadership by embedding inclusive practices into organisational cultures.

Discover how Solat’s pioneering initiatives, like the Investors in Diversity standards and Inclusion IQ, are transforming businesses and empowering leaders to embrace equity and diversity as drivers of success. Whether you’re curious about actionable steps for fostering inclusive workplaces or inspired by stories of real-world impact, this interview offers invaluable insights for anyone passionate about creating meaningful change.

Practitioner Profile: Helen Redman

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FREDIE practitioner Helen Redman brings a wealth of experience from the Post-16 education sector, championing equity for learners and professionals alike. In this insightful blog, she shares her inspiring journey with the National Centre for Diversity, from transformative client experiences to her dedication to creating meaningful change through FREDIE principles. Discover Helen’s advice for organisations starting their EDI journeys and the impact of fostering true inclusivity in education and beyond.

Practitioner Profile: Kam Urwin

A purple graphic with a photo of a smiling woman. Text reads 'Really think about and articulate what difference you want to see by embracing FREDIE, and then invest in it, and empower people to lead and deliver on it. Kam Urwin, Investors in Diversity. Assessor'

Kam Urwin’s journey in the not-for-profit and social enterprise sectors has been one of dedication and passion, particularly in the areas of mentoring, inclusion, and diversity. Over nearly a decade, she has worked with disability-focused charities and supported women escaping domestic abuse. Working with the National Centre for Diversity Kam collaborates with a wide range of organisations to foster inclusion, fairness, and engagement.

Practitioner Profile: Jo Barton

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At the National Centre for Diversity, we are proud to highlight the work of our EDI (Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion) practitioners and Investors in Diversity Assessors through this series of profiles. Jo Barton is the Head of Assessors (UK) and has worked with the National Centre for Diversity for over 14 years.

FREDIE Spotlight: Carrington West

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Carrington West is a UK-based recruitment agency specialising in the built environment, connecting top talent with both public and private sector organisations.
Since its founding in 2010, the company has expanded to serve diverse sectors, with a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Through their Investors in Diversity journey, Carrington West aims to foster an inclusive workplace, enhance employee wellbeing, and strengthen relationships with clients and communities, while embedding ethical and socially responsible practices across their operations.

Guest Post: VINCI Construction

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At the 2022 FREDIE Awards, Lenka Vošvrdová from VINCI Construction reflected on the company’s decade-long journey to becoming a top inclusive workplace. VINCI’s success in fostering Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Engagement (FREDIE) was highlighted through gradual improvements, listening to employee feedback, and support from the National Centre for Diversity.

FREDIE Spotlight: ScotRail Alliance

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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.

In a challenging year, gladiators of equality, diversity, and inclusion shine through

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The FREDIE Awards are presented by the National Centre for Diversity (NCFD) to recognise and honour organisations and individuals that exemplify excellence in promoting Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Engagement (FREDIE). These awards celebrate companies across various sectors—private, public, and charity—that have demonstrated outstanding commitment to creating inclusive environments. The awards aim to benchmark best practices and inspire others to advance equality and inclusivity in the workplace. At the 2021 ceremony VINCI UK claimed the top spot, while Zoe Shackleton of Huddersfield Town AFC and Karen Wallace of ScotRail were recognised for their contributions to promoting inclusive practices.

Association of Colleges | FREDIE Spotlight

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Kirsti Lord from the Association of Colleges discusses the increased disadvantages for BAME students and staff, emphasising the need for better support and leadership diversity. Initiatives are being implemented to address these issues, but there is a need for sustained, long-term efforts to ensure inclusivity and representation at all levels.