Forward releases ambitious new three-year equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) strategy

As an organisation that has already established a wide range of EDI-endorsed initiatives across our workforce, this new three-year plan aligns with our vision that ‘anyone, no matter their history or circumstances, has the opportunity and support to live a positive life that fulfils their potential and inspires others to do the same.’ 

The three key aims for our three-year EDI strategy include: 

• Create a culture that encourages people to bring their whole selves to work, whoever they are. 
• Increase diversity across our workforce and make sure everyone has the opportunity to develop and progress. 
• Ensure our services are as inclusive, accessible and welcoming as possible. 

As a mission-driven social justice charity, Forward has a long track-record of challenging discrimination and structural inequalities. This new EDI strategy re-asserts these values with ambitious new targets outlined to ensure we remain a truly inclusive organisation where everyone has the opportunity to take part and contribute, sees themselves reflected when they look around, and feels welcome and valued. 

Furthermore, as Forward continues to increase our workforce, now 800-strong, diversity will be an integral component for our recruitment and retention goals, with a refreshed commitment to increase opportunities for candidates from under-represented backgrounds to work for us. 

Culturally, Forward will also continue to foster allyship and role modelling of inclusive behaviours across all levels of the organisation, fully embracing difference and diversity, to deliver an inclusive working environment. This is already reflected in our thriving Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) where these five staff-led forums across Forward provide a supportive peer-led network for colleagues to discuss different lived experiences, provide insight into unseen barriers and support our organisation to devise practical, creative and workable solutions to enable everyone to thrive and be their authentic selves. 

Ketiwe Anjorin, Head of EDI, said: 

‘I’m delighted to be supporting Forward on its EDI journey. We’ve made some great progress over the past 18 months with the development of our EDI champions and EDI training and staff lunch and learns. 

“With this new strategy, we are strengthening our commitment to building a truly inclusive organisation and embedding equity in our service delivery.  

“We are aspiring to build a culture where everyone belongs and is valued and a workforce whose diversity reflects the communities we serve. This will enable us to deliver the best possible services to all who need them.” 

This new EDI strategy sets out specific strategic areas where we will forge ahead with continuous improvements – from HR to Governance, Leadership to our service delivery – we are taking a much bolder approach to delivering change which is outlined in the timeline (P12-13). 

We would like to thank all those who have contributed to the EDI Strategy and we look forward to working on delivering these EDI priorities over the next three years.