race equality matters bronze trailblazers award

In recognition of our work to address racial inequality within NWAS, we have been awarded the Race Equality Matters (REM) Bronze Trailblazer Status. 

Bronze is the first stage in the Trailblazer series spotlighting organisations driving race equality. 

Since the launch of our Race Equality Network (REN) in 2021, we have taken strides to tackle race inequality and the REM Trailblazer judges commended: 

  • The launch of our Reverse Mentoring Programme that sees board executives and senior managers partnered with frontline staff, exposing them directly to the perspectives and challenges they face with the hope of inspiring positive changes for staff. 
  • The implementation of additional leadership training sessions that raise awareness of what it means to be an inclusive leader. 
  • Internal race-equality-focused events in which network members were able to share their experiences of recruitment, staff retention, and career progression. The event brought members of our board as well as senior management and other stakeholders together to discuss these issues and how we can make a positive difference. 
  • Attending external events to listen to feedback, reassure and answer questions or concerns raised by members of our communities. 
  • Amending our style guide, which we use to ensure brand consistency and effective communication, to include #MyNameIs – a simple but highly impactful solution that ensures the correct pronunciation of people’s names. 

Salman Desai, Deputy CEO and Chief Operating Officer and Executive Sponsor for the REN, added: “This an impressive achievement and credit to Wes Proverbs, REN Chair,  the core members of the network and  our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Team. Collectively they have worked hard to embed equality and inclusion in NWAS and raise awareness and challenge race inequality. I am pleased to see their efforts are being recognised and aware there is a lot more for us to do when it comes to race inequality. I am committed to keeping the issue high on our agenda. Well done to all involved in obtaining this Bronze status.”