Birmingham Hospice has received a prestigious accreditation in recognition of its commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
The Investors in Diversity award, from the National Centre for Diversity, is acknowledged as the national standard for equality.
It provides organisations with a bespoke approach for improving Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Engagement (FREDIE) practices in the workplace.
Michelle Stuteley, Director of People and Culture, said: “Historically, our charity had laid a good foundation of awareness and education in respect of equality, diversity and inclusion.
“Throughout the assessment we have shown how highly we value diversity of thought, space for open and honest feedback, collaboration, enthusiasm, and above all progression.”
The Investors in Diversity accreditation sets an inclusive framework that is embodied throughout an organisation to boost colleague development, work culture and morale, while creating a more rewarding experience for its patients, families and supporters.
To earn the accreditation, information was drawn from surveys and interviews with the charity’s colleagues, the community that uses its services, its Senior Management Team and other stakeholders over a 12-month period.
Birmingham Hospice passed the evaluation with flying colours, demonstrating its strong commitment to diversity at all levels of the organisation.
The hospice’s dedicated Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) group has also been key to achieving the accreditation, and has hosted a number of training sessions and educational talks, and attended external events across the city to ensure the city’s diverse population is represented in its work.
Recently, Birmingham Hospice has also been recognised as a Disability Confident Employer.
Raveena Bains, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Business Partner at the hospice, added: “I am absolutely delighted that our charity has been awarded this fantastic accreditation and this is such a huge achievement for everyone who has been a part of this.
“We are committed to creating a workplace that is welcoming to everyone and also ensuring our hospice is an open and respectful environment for our patients and their loved ones.
“Our values are at the heart of everything we do at Birmingham Hospice; they guide our actions and decisions every day.
“This is just the start of our journey, and we will continue to ensure that diversity, inclusion and equality remains at the forefront of our charity.”
