Stagecoach has reiterated its recently published diversity and inclusivity targets to coincide with National Inclusion Week, taking place 27 September – 1 October.
National Inclusion Week, an annual campaign organised by employers, aims to raise awareness of the importance of inclusion in the workplace and of the benefits to having a diverse workforce.
Stagecoach’s commitments are part of the company’s sustainability strategy, published in August. It targets 40% of females in leadership roles and 25% of an ethnic minority workforce by 2026.
To support the targets, the operator earlier this year launched employee led diversity and inclusion networks.
Additional resources will support the inclusivity goals. Former driver from Stagecoach Manchester’s Hyde Road depot Stuart Beard recently took on the role of Diversity and Inclusion Assistant.
The company has also partnered with Women in Hospitality, Travel and Leisure (WiHTL). WuHTL is devoted to increasing representation of women and ethnic minorities at all levels and in leadership positions across the global hospitality, travel and leisure sectors.
“We’re proud of the steps we have taken so far in creating an inclusive company that welcomes talented people, helping them to develop and to be the best they can be, whoever they are and wherever they’re from,” says Clare Burles, People Director for Stagecoach.
“While we have made some good progress, we know that there is still work to do. The new targets we have set as part of our sustainability strategy will help to make sure that we continue on this positive journey and play our part in helping to transform diversity in the transport sector.
“Initiatives such as the new employee networks and the creation of a new dedicated role for diversity and inclusion demonstrate a major step forward, and will help to ensure we can continue to recognise and celebrate everyone’s differences, and create an even better place to work for our existing and new employees.”
Stagecoach has supported National Inclusion Week since 2016. The company launched its Inclusion Pledge in 2019, which committed to celebrating people’s differences.
“We are pleased to be celebrating National Inclusion Week for a sixth year and we are all looking forward to seeing the positive changes our networks, pledge and strategy makes over the coming months and years,” adds Claire.
