Leicestershire County Council has been named as one of the best local authorities in the country for equality, diversity and inclusion.
It joins five other local authorities in being shortlisted for the prestigious Local Government Chronicle Workforce awards.
The nomination highlights the council’s longstanding commitment to being an inclusive employer through many initiatives, such as:
- regular, innovative ‘Big Conversation’ events - which give all staff an opportunity to learn about topical EDI issues and ask questions
- promotion and participation in numerous cultural events across the year - including Leicester Pride and Diwali
- national recognition - for work on LGBTQ+ issues, as a top 100 organisation in the Stonewall Workforce Equalities Index, and for menopause as the first council to become a Menopause Friendly Employer
We’re incredibly proud to value diversity and being shortlisted for this award recognises our longstanding commitment to being an inclusive employer.
I'd like to thank all our staff helping us create a working environment that allows everyone to feel comfortable, confident and open about who they are.
Person:Councillor Pam Posnett, cabinet member for community and staff relations
Other achievements include becoming an anti-racist organisation, introducing an online equality impact assessment process and establishing task groups for anti-racism, disability and LGBTQ+ issues to ensure the workforce is representative of the communities it serves.
Every member of staff can be part of one of the authority's supportive staff networks, or sign up as a speak up, race or diversity champion.
The annual awards celebrate and showcase the pioneering work happening in local government, and the winners will be announced on 8 November.