Avanti West Coast recognised for commitment to inclusive culture
Avanti West Coast achieves the Investors in Diversity Bronze Award.
- Avanti West Coast achieves the Investors in Diversity Bronze Award
- Train operator recognised for its commitment to building an inclusive culture
- Work with National Centre for Diversity designed to support people across organisation
Avanti West Coast has achieved Investors in Diversity Bronze Award for its commitment to building an inclusive culture.
Working with the National Centre for Diversity (UK’s longest standing provider of equality, diversity and inclusion accreditation), the train operator was assessed on whether it had a strong foundation in place to embed diversity and inclusion into the wider organisation – securing Bronze level.
Avanti West Coast was recognised for its efforts to develop and maintain an inclusive, supportive culture and diverse workforce through its policies, practices, as well as training for its Executive Leadership Team.
This achievement will enable the train operator to continue to embed the best practice model of FREDIE (Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Engagement) into its workplace to build an inclusive culture.
The accreditation is part of Avanti West Coast’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) strategy in the workplace. The strategy also aims to advance equality and inclusion through its work with colleagues, as well as with communities, suppliers and other organisations.
This latest achievement follows the launch of Avanti West Coast’s vibrant “Together We Roll” train wrap – a brightly coloured design that celebrates and represents employees and communities across its network – which is underpinned by the EDI strategy.
Jo MacPhail, People Director at Avanti West Coast, said: “We’re proud to have been recognised for our commitment to build an inclusive, diverse and engaged workplace.
“This accreditation is the latest step in our efforts to offer a place to work where colleagues feel valued and respected regardless of their background. We look forward to continuing to further develop our culture across the wider business, as we strive to have a workforce that is representative of society and the communities we serve.”
Solat Chaudhry, Chief Executive of the National Centre for Diversity, commented: “We are delighted that Avanti West Coast have achieved Investors in Diversity Bronze, and I would like to extend our congratulations to all their colleagues on their success to date.”
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About National Centre for Diversity
Since 2005 we have provided the UK’s longest-standing equality, diversity and inclusion accreditation.
Working with over 1000 organisations across multiple sectors we have created a framework that builds inclusive cultures and leads organisations to success. Our approach is continuously evolving in-step with the modern workplace. Our team is on hand to guide you through your journey and our dedicated assessors are knowledgeable, highly experienced and here to tailor their support to your needs.
National Centre for Diversity: Advancing Fairness for All
About Avanti West Coast
Avanti West Coast, operator of intercity rail services on the West Coast Main Line, is a joint venture between FirstGroup and Trenitalia, delivering a cleaner, greener railway that drives the West Coast forward. Avanti West Coast serves key UK cities, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow as well as North Wales.
We’re on a mission to be the transport of choice – connecting customers and communities along the West Coast. Our award-winning Pendolino refurbishment programme transformed the UK’s hardest working fleet with all 56 of the iconic trains providing best-in-class comfort.
Our Evero fleet, which offers more seats, improved comfort, and a substantial cut to carbon emissions, was introduced in June 2024 and is the result of a £350m investment in sustainable travel. Built by Hitachi, the 23-strong fleet, consisting of 10 seven-carriage electric trains and 13 five-carriage bi-modes, serves routes from London to the Midlands, Chester, North Wales and the North West.
We want to make a positive difference to the people and places we serve – helping to drive economic growth, green travel, and break down barriers. Our efforts to contribute to society and enable people to benefit from the opportunities rail offers through purpose-led initiatives including Feel Good Field Trips and award-winning female driver recruitment campaign has seen us create over £1billion in social value impact.
We’re tackling climate change wherever we can, from reducing energy and water use to training drivers in eco-driving techniques and sourcing food and drink from local suppliers. Our goal is to be net zero carbon by 2031. We’re on track.
For the latest news, visit the Avanti West Coast Media Centre: https://newsdesk.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/
Press Office: 0845 000 3333