FREDIE Spotlight: Carrington West
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
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
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
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
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.
FREDIE Spotlight: Becky Hewitt
In this interview, Solat Chaudhry, NCFD Chief Executive, speaks with Becky Hewitt, Director of People at Leeds Building Society, about their EDI initiatives. Hewitt shares insights into their success at the NCFD Grand Awards 2019, the impact of their involvement with the Women in Finance Charter, and their rigorous recruitment process aimed at promoting diversity. She emphasises the importance of culture, continuous improvement through external accreditations, and the Society’s strategic focus on gender, mental health, and BAME representation in their workforce.
Solat Chaudhry Interviews Colin Booth, Principal and Chief Executive of Leeds College Group
In this insightful one-on-one interview, Colin Booth, Principal and Chief Executive of Leeds College Group, shares his leadership philosophy and the crucial role of culture in driving success. Booth emphasises the importance of empowering teams by asking what they need to achieve ambitious goals—and then providing the necessary support. He reflects on pivotal moments from his career, explaining how culture and shared purpose outperform strategy in achieving transformational change. Booth’s approach to integrating diverse teams and promoting inclusivity offers valuable lessons for leaders in education and beyond.
NCFD Interviews Mike Regnier, CEO of Yorkshire Building Society
In this candid interview, Mike Regnier, CEO of Yorkshire Building Society, discusses his journey as a leader in championing Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). Mike reflects on the shifting landscape, where white, male CEOs are increasingly vocal and confident in driving the EDI agenda. He shares his personal experiences, including initiatives like implementing a real living wage and the ongoing cultural transformation at YBS. Through practical examples and heartfelt insights, Mike emphasises the importance of culture, engagement, and momentum in fostering a more inclusive workplace, echoing his belief that “culture beats everything.”
Top 100 Champions of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Revealed
The National Centre for Diversity’s Top 100 Inclusive UK Employers Index celebrates best practice in Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Engagement (FREDIE).