UK Power Networks has zoomed up the charts to become one of the top two inclusive employers in the country.
The Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers List is a league table of the most inclusive employers who carry out best practice across all strands of diversity including age, disability, gender, LGBT+, race, faith & religion.
The judges based the company’s second place on performance across a range of areas. Promoted from sixth place last year to second place this year, the power distribution company showed there is ingrained inclusion across all protected characteristics across the business.
UK Power Networks has appeared on the list for several years and this is its highest ranking.
Compiled by Inclusive Companies and now in its eighth year, the IT50 List is the definitive cross-industry index harnessing both innovation and best practice in a bid to achieve inclusion for all.
The news comes alongside National Equality Standard (NES) reaccreditation. This also shows the energy company’s steadfast commitment to addressing diversity and inclusion. Top marks were awarded for:
- Targeted training, with relevant employees provided with targeted training and guidance in order to support all aspects of managing diversity.
- Feedback mechanism: Formal and informal channels provide regular opportunities for employees to give feedback to the organisation. There are specific channels available for raising concerns.
- External relationships & corporate social responsibility: Community investment and volunteer projects advance diversity and social mobility. Strategic alliances are in place to support this.
- Customer insight: There is a recognition of a diverse client and customer base. Attempts are made to remove barriers and tailor services accordingly.
The NES report said: “This accomplishment stands as a testament to UK Power Networks steadfast commitment to addressing diversity and inclusion, maintaining the high standards set six years ago during the original assessment and continued through your last assessment three years ago…scoring has improved in a number of competencies since, including flexible working in light of the recent extension of blended working policy for managers.”
“Our judging panel looked for cultural change rather than the ‘peaks and troughs’ often seen by well-meaning organisations whose EDI activities are actions are in response to national or world events making the news,” said Paul Sesay, Founder and CEO of Inclusive Companies. “We work closely with organisations to create cultural transformation that ensures diversity and inclusion are embedded into everything they practice and the IT50 recognises those employers who are getting this right.”
UK Power Networks’ director of HR Andrew Pace said: “We are delighted to be reaccredited for the National Equality Standard which is a very thorough assessment, and in quick succession, to reach number two on the Inclusive Top 50 list. This recognises how we strive to ensure access and opportunity for all, whilst creating an environment where all employees are able to develop, achieve and continuously improve in their chosen career paths.”
