North West Ambulance Service named NHS Employers Diversity and Inclusion Partner

North West Ambulance Service Named NHS Employers Diversity and Inclusion Partner

The North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) has been chosen by NHS Employers to take part in this year’s Equality and Diversity programme.

Following a selection process, a total of 30 NHS organisations have made it through to be included in this year’s programme.

Through the free programme, NHS Employers supports participating trusts to build on their performance on diversity and inclusion over a year-long period.

NHS organisations are awarded partner status once they have shown that they are meeting the following criteria: 

• They are improving patient access services and experience.
• They have empowered, engaged and well-supported staff.
• They have inclusive leadership at all levels.
• They are delivering better health outcomes for all, including those in underrepresented groups.

Director of Organisational Development for NWAS, Michael Forrest, said: “This is the first year that the Trust has applied for the programme and it’s a huge privilege to be selected. 

“Being a partner organisation will give the Trust an opportunity to showcase the work that is being carried out and to learn from other organisations to further embed inclusion.”

Support will include four interactive modules, designed by the partners themselves to help them stay on the cutting edge of policy, as well as providing opportunities to share good practice and network.

The programme is also closely aligned with NHS England’s Equality Delivery System.

Paul Deemer, Head of Diversity and Inclusion at NHS Employers, said: “We are delighted at the response this year to our call for applications to the partners programme, in terms of quantity and quality.

“We have heard from a wide range of organisations – by both type and geographical spread – and we look forward to supporting them on good diversity practice within their organisations.”