Train operator achieves diversity award

East Midlands Railway has become the first train operator in the country to achieve a top award recognising its approach to diversity and inclusion.

The firm has been awarded Diversity and Inclusion Gold Standard by the Inclusive Employers Standard Programme.

The award recognises EMR’s efforts to embed diversity and inclusion best practices into all aspects of its work.

Its work to create “empowered” employee led Network Groups with senior support garnered considerable praise. These groups are important in helping EMR amplify the voices of underrepresented employees and use their experiences to develop a more inclusive workplace.

Kate Holden, HR director at EMR, said: “To receive this accreditation is testament to the diversity and inclusion strategy we have put in place to promote a positive working environment for all current and potential colleagues, enabling them to enjoy equality of opportunity in the workplace.

“We are particularly proud of the recognition our employee-led networks have received; their work is vital and helps us focus on the diversity and inclusion issues our staff are really passionate about.”