City West wanted to stress-test their organisational approach to diversity
City West Housing Trust manages around 15,000 homes in North West England. They were looking for a consultancy to assess their performance on diversity across the organisation.
The regulatory landscape of the social housing sector had changed following the abolition of the Audit Commission. For a forward-thinking organisation like City West, our Diversity in Business Accreditation (DiBA) (now known as the Diversity Development Standard) was the perfect response.
We collaborated with a project team of seven City West staff, beginning with a full document review. We then held two days of on-site interviews and focus groups with staff from all parts of the business, as well as City West customers. Our consultants made sure to link the audit process directly to the day-to-day activities of the business.
We supported City West in refocusing on their legal requirements under the Equality Act, with planning and development, and with identifying next steps.
City West achieved the Diversity Standard, testament to the importance they place on inclusion as a social landlord. They have since successfully re-accredited on an annual basis, continuing to embed equalities internally and throughout its supply chain.
“A fantastic organisation to work with. Their knowledge, insight and experience has been invaluable.”
“EW Group has been a fantastic organisation to work with. Their knowledge, insight and experience has been invaluable in assisting City West in embarking on a journey of developing an inclusive and integrated workforce.”
Sefa Amesu, Policy and Service Development Officer (Service Excellence) at City West Housing Trust
“Diversity and inclusion remains integral to City West, as a service provider, employer, a partner, a purchaser of goods and services and as a landlord. We used DiBA to test this commitment… The findings were used to further embed and develop our equality and diversity strategy and practices.”
Judith Kerwick, Service Excellence Manager at West Housing Trust