National Inclusion Week 2024 takes place from the 23rd – 29th of September
With National Inclusion Week 2024 approaching, what better time to remind employers across the UK about this key event. NIW 2024 is all about celebrating inclusion and taking action to create inclusive workspaces for all.
We’ve put together this employer’s guide to give you all the key information about the week-long event and how you can get involved.
What is National Inclusion Week?
National Inclusion Week (NIW) is an annual event that promotes diversity and inclusion. It was founded 12 years ago by Inclusive Employers, a UK-based organisation dedicated to helping employers create inclusive workplaces. It’s gone from strength to strength, with last year’s campaign reaching a whopping 28.1 million people on social media during September 2023 alone.
Each year, the event focuses on a specific theme to encourage people to connect with their colleagues and raise awareness. This year’s theme is “Impact Matters”, calling on every single person in your organisation from top leaders to entry-level staff to take action and make a positive impact on workplace inclusion.
When is National Inclusion Week 2024?
National Inclusion Week 2024 will run from the 23rd to the 29th of September. You can register to participate here.
What’s Included in NIW 2024 Registration?
There are 2 options when registering for National Inclusion Week 2024.
Free option
Included in the free registration starter kit, you’ll gain access to a host of goodies, including
- An inclusion guide for businesses
- A self-assessment to become an inclusion champion
- A customisable press release and details about the theme
- NIW logos and branding
- Printable materials, such as bunting and posters
Full supporter
There’s also the option to upgrade to a full supporter. This will give you access to their premium content which includes:
- The ‘Impact Matters’ guide provides a comprehensive approach to becoming an inclusive employer. It includes a detailed, step-by-step plan for creating an impact strategy, alongside tips for maximising the benefits of National Inclusion Week.
- The National Inclusion Week 2024 quiz engages your organisation with inclusion-themed questions featuring stats and pop culture.
- The on-demand webinar, ‘Inclusion Voices’, shares personal stories and includes a worksheet for teams and individuals.
- An exclusive supporter logo is available to highlight your commitment to inclusion.
The premium package costs £350 per organisation—a bargain if you ask us!
What Is The Theme For National Inclusion Week 2024?
The theme of National Inclusion Week 2024 is “Impact Matters”. It’s a call to action for everyone in your organisation to take the initiative to make a positive impact, from executives and managers to leaders and individuals.
NIW typically takes place in September and aims to shed light on the importance of creating inclusive spaces that welcome people from all backgrounds. These spaces offer an environment where everyone can feel valued, respected, and empowered.
During the week, organisations across the UK host events, workshops, and seminars about diversity, equity, and inclusion. Doing so provides education for leaders and employees about the benefits of building an inclusive work culture and how to tackle discrimination.
How to Get Involved in National Inclusion Week 2024
Once you’ve registered to participate in National Inclusion Week 2024, the next step is to begin planning ways for your workplace to celebrate this year’s event.
Celebrating National Inclusion Week 2024 in your workplace demonstrates your commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) among your employees. Moreover, it creates space for employees to honour their diversity and learn more about inclusion at work.
Here are our top picks of activities to celebrate this National Inclusion Week.
1. Hold workshops and training events
National Inclusion Week is an ideal time to host educational initiatives for employees about unconscious bias, inclusive language, and cultural competence. We recommend inviting inclusivity experts to lead these sessions, as well as asking employees to share their own personal stories and experiences. These events can be held in person or online as webinars.
As part of this training, encourage employees to do their own research and make an inclusion pledge. This is a commitment to the specific actions they will take as an individual to create a more inclusive workplace.
You could also organise an inclusive networking event to encourage employees to connect with employees they don’t usually interact with.
Bonus reading: The Benefits of Staff Networks 👉
2. Review company policies
Events are fun, but this week is all about taking action. So, we urge companies to use this week to review and update company policies related to inclusivity, diversity, and equality. In addition, take this opportunity to identify where further policies are needed. Our EDI Policy Template is a great place to start.
For example, perhaps your organisation is lacking in mentorship initiatives or allyship programmes to support diverse employees. Check out our EDI Initiatives to Implement in 2024 to see how your organisation can take action in this area.
3. Build an inclusive calendar
This week is the perfect time to take stock of your annual events calendar. Sure, you celebrate Christmas and Easter, but what about other holidays and events? Building an inclusive calendar that celebrates Diwali, Black History Month, LGBTQ+ Month, International Women’s Day, and Hanukkah will ensure all employees feel seen.
Ask employees for their feedback here to ensure that your company publicly acknowledges any and all important cultural and religious events.
Don’t miss our dedicated blog on Diversity Events All Employers Should Know About 👉
4. Partner with a charity or non-profit organisation
Providing opportunities for employees to volunteer with inclusivity-focused organisations is a powerful way for your company to give back. Offering paid volunteering days encourages employees to get involved, giving them an opportunity to participate in a rewarding project.
Donating to charitable organisations or holding a fund-raising event is another method of showing your support.
5. Hold a resource fair
National Inclusion Week 2024 is all about raising awareness, taking action and making a positive impact. So, hosting a resource fair is a fantastic way to educate employees. You could partner with local organisations to set up booths dedicated to important topics, such as disability awareness, gender equality, and discrimination.
If you have established employee resource groups, ask them to support you in setting up and managing the event. For instance, each group may want to host its own discussion panel or event.
What Happens When National Inclusion Weeks 2024 Ends?
The aim of National Inclusion Week is to boost understanding, raise awareness and encourage year-long action from all organisations.
As such, when the week is over, the best way to ensure that it has a lasting impact on your organisation is to follow up.
After the week, ask employees for their feedback on the events and their suggestions to improve inclusivity throughout the year. The awareness and training offered throughout the week may give employees some fresh insights and ideas on how to establish a safe and inclusive space in your workplace.
Gather as much feedback and information as you can while it’s fresh in everyone’s mind. This will give you concrete areas to work on for the year ahead to boost inclusion not only in your organisation but across the UK. Let’s see how far you’ve come by 2025!
Key Takeaways
Participating in National Inclusion Week 2024 is an excellent way to demonstrate your commitment to inclusive workplaces. What’s more, it provides employees with a space to celebrate diversity and learn more about their peers.
While participating in the week of events is a great opportunity, it’s important to recognise the importance of authenticity. As an employer, inclusivity should be a top priority all year round, not just during this week.
Partnering with inclusivity experts like Aspiring to Include to advertise jobs and enhance your accessibility is a powerful way to showcase your dedication to being a diversity-positive employer.
We collaborate with leading UK employers to connect them with the best diverse talent and support them on their journey to becoming more inclusive employers.
We offer a range of services for employers, such as advertising opportunities and inclusivity screening.
Get in touch to see how our team of experts can help you take action and cultivate an inclusive workplace.
