East Midlands Railway has been awarded the Inclusive Employers Gold Standard for the second time, recognising the operator’s sustained commitment to promoting a workplace culture in which diversity and inclusion are integral to daily operations. The accreditation acknowledges organisations that can clearly demonstrate that inclusion is embedded throughout their policies, practices and company culture rather than existing as a standalone initiative.

The train operator, part of Transport UK, was praised for ensuring that its inclusion strategy is reflected across all areas of its business. The accreditation report highlighted a workplace environment where listening, learning and adapting to the needs of employees and communities is a fundamental part of how the organisation functions. According to the findings, inclusion at EMR is continually reinforced in the way the company supports and engages with colleagues.

Kate Holden, HR Director at East Midlands Railway, welcomed the renewed accreditation and said it reflected genuine progress in creating an inclusive culture. She said:

"We are proud to again achieve this important accreditation and show that diversity and inclusion are at the very heart of our values at EMR. This accreditation reaffirms our work and shows that policies are being acted upon rather than just sitting on a shelf. The fact that EMR adapts to the needs of its diverse workforce helps it to achieve and drives the business forward."

Inclusive Employers, the organisation responsible for the Gold Standard assessment, also commended EMR’s efforts. Emily Pattinson, Senior Inclusive Employers Standard Programme Lead, said:

"We’re incredibly proud that EMR has shown a clear commitment to building an inclusive culture. In what can feel like an overwhelming time for inclusion and diversity work, organisations like EMR are helping to drive meaningful change. By seeking to understand their inclusion development, EMR demonstrates to others in their sector that they are prioritising their people and creating a culture of impactful inclusion.”

East Midlands Railway said it will continue to invest in its inclusion goals, building on insights from the accreditation to maintain progress and support its workforce.

Image: East Midlands Railway