Insights
In our recent webinar, experts gathered to discuss the current landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).
The session covered how not-for-profit organisations can keep belonging and equity at the top of the agenda, despite external pressures.
The panel discussion acknowledged that while charities often have a mission to address inequalities, equity is not necessarily embedded across every aspect of our organisations.
Watch the webinar recording here >>
How not-for-profit organisations are feeling about DEI in 2025
During the webinar, we asked some poll questions to the audience to gauge their experiences and concerns regarding DEI. Here are some key findings:
- Impact of DEI Rollback: A significant majority (70%) reported that the rollback of DEI initiatives globally has not impacted their organisation. However, about a third indicated that they have felt the impact.
- DEI Challenges: The top DEI-related challenges identified by the audience included measuring and tracking progress, leadership buy-in, and recruitment and hiring processes.
- Current DEI Issues: The most pressing DEI issues in organisations were workplace culture and belonging, leadership representation, and training and awareness.
Keeping DEI on the agenda and embedding inclusivity
The discussion began with an emphasis on the significance of DEI in today’s world. DEI is not just a buzzword; it’s a critical component of organisational success. Natasha Broomfield-Reid, Director of Diverse Matters, highlighted that DEI is about people—service users, clients, volunteers, and staff. She stressed that inclusion should be embedded in every aspect of an organisation, from leadership to policies and practices.
Natasha Broomfield-Reid, Diverse Matters
Natasha emphasised the need for organisations to embed DEI in their mission, vision, and values. She highlighted the importance of leadership commitment and the role of policies in driving inclusion. Natasha also stressed the significance of listening to employees and taking action based on their feedback.
“If we’re looking at retention, that’s inclusion. Why are people staying, what is keeping people from leaving? One of the top issues from the poll was workplace culture. Culture is inclusion. Are people happy? Do people have a sense of belonging in the workplace?” – Natasha Broomfield-Reid, Director Diverse Matters
The panel also addressed the recent backlash against DEI initiatives, particularly in the US. Natasha pointed out that organisations genuinely committed to DEI continue their efforts despite external pressures.
She encouraged organisations to focus on the positive impacts of DEI for organisational success, such as improved services, better financial performance, and enhanced employee engagement.
Measuring and Tracking Progress
Catherine Wearden, Principal Consultant at Agenda Consulting, shared insights on measuring and tracking DEI progress. She emphasised the importance of engagement surveys and demographic data to understand how different groups experience the organisation.
Catherine shared data on employee perceptions of belonging and the factors that drive it. She highlighted the importance of clear organisational values, leadership trust, and equitable career opportunities in fostering a sense of belonging.
Equity vs equality
Woosh Raza, Founder of Into the Orbit Consulting, discussed the difference between equity and equality.
Woosh Raza, Into the Orbit Consulting
“Equity recognises that different people will have different barriers to whatever the situation is, and so there’ll need to be different initiatives or different solutions that are given to different people so that everyone can thrive.” – Woosh Raza, Founder Into the Orbit Consulting
Supporting the trans community
Woosh also addressed the challenges faced by the trans community and the importance of creating inclusive policies and safe spaces.
“There’s still a lot that can be done in regards to looking at trans-inclusive policies and what support you may be giving an individual who is transitioning at work. There’s lots of ways that you can create safe spaces by bringing your trans colleagues or your LGBT colleagues together to hold space for and recognise the turbulent environment they are existing in. It could be role modelling from your leadership, expressing sympathy to that community.” – Woosh Raza, Founder Into the Orbit Consulting
Moving forward
We were delighted that this panel discussion provided valuable insights into the current state of DEI for not-for-profit organisations. Our expert panellists highlighted the importance of embedding DEI in every aspect of an organisation, measuring progress, and addressing challenges head-on.
By focusing on the positive impact of DEI and taking a data-driven approach, organisations can create a more inclusive and engaging workplace where everyone feels they belong.
Get in touch to talk to a survey expert about taking a data-driven approach to driving inclusion and belonging in your organisation.
