FREDIE Spotlight: Helen & Douglas House
Helen & Douglas House, the world’s first children’s hospice founded in 1982, provides vital end-of-life and respite care for terminally ill children and their families. Recognising the need for an inclusive culture, they adopted the FREDIE framework to enhance their diversity efforts. Through the Investors in Diversity process, Helen & Douglas House have built a solid foundation for inclusivity, leading to staff feeling more valued and respected, more open conversations and a collaborative culture that challenges barriers and celebrates difference.
Celebrating Diversity: The History and Importance of Pride in the UK
June bursts with color and celebration as people globally observe Pride Month, commemorating the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ equality. At the National Centre for Diversity, we honor this period by reflecting on the rich history of Pride in the UK, from its roots in the 1969 Stonewall Riots to the first UK Gay Pride Rally in 1972. Pride events serve as powerful reminders of past struggles, platforms for visibility and representation, and catalysts for fostering an inclusive society. Happy Pride from all of us at the National Centre for Diversity!
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.
World Autism Awareness Month
April marks World Autism Awareness Month, dedicated to promoting acceptance and understanding of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This month emphasizes recognizing the unique perspectives and strengths of individuals with autism, while also addressing the stigma and misunderstandings they often face. By fostering empathy and inclusivity, we can create a society where neurodiversity is celebrated and everyone is valued for who they are.
Sellafield’s Programme and Project Partners (PPP) Wins Prestigious UK Government Inclusion Award
Established by Sellafield Ltd in 2019, the Programme and Project Partners (PPP) is a 20-year initiative aimed at transforming project delivery through a collaborative approach. Partnering with Morgan Sindall Infrastructure, KBR, Jacobs, and Altrad Babcock, PPP emphasizes inclusivity and diversity. This commitment was recently recognized with the Government’s Infrastructure and Project Authority (IPA) Inclusion and Diversity Award. Claire Gribben, PPP’s Talent and Inclusion Manager, highlights how this accolade has strengthened the partnership and fueled momentum in fostering a diverse workforce.
LGBTQ+ History in Britain
As February ends and LGBTQ+ History Month concludes, we reflect on the rich tapestry of British queer experiences and milestones. This month highlights the remarkable individuals and pivotal moments that have shaped the nation’s journey towards equality and inclusion
A Vision of Hope for 2024
As we welcome 2024, the National Centre for Diversity (NCFD) sends a heartfelt Happy New Year to everyone, reaffirming its commitment to fostering inclusivity and fairness in workplaces across the UK.
Solat Chaudhry, the dynamic and passionate Chief Executive of NCFD, shared his optimistic vision for the year ahead in an interview with Andrew Palmer of the Yorkshire Times. Chaudhry, who has a rich background as a former police officer and grew up amidst the challenges of 1970s Burnley, leads NCFD with a steadfast commitment to changing attitudes and promoting diversity.
🎉 Wishing You Joyful Holidays from the National Centre for Diversity! 🎄
As the festive season approaches, we at the National Centre for Diversity want to take a moment to express our gratitude for the incredible journey we’ve shared with you this year.
It has been a year filled with growth, development, and positive change, and we are thrilled to have been a part of your journey.
Making inclusion safe again
The National Centre for Diversity (NCFD) has worked with 1500 organizations over nearly two decades, guiding them in improving Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Engagement (FREDIE). The article reflects on the evolution of diversity roles and the increasing professionalisation and research backing diversity initiatives. It highlights the rapid changes and heightened expectations following significant events like the murder of George Floyd. Solat Chaudhry emphasises the need for holistic, inclusive approaches to diversity, advocating for margins for error, forgiveness, and reasonable disagreement to foster a more understanding and supportive workplace culture.