News article
West Ham recognised for equality, diversity and inclusion
West Ham United’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) has been recognised by the English Premier League with a top award.
It is the second time that West Ham has been presented with the award, having first received the Advanced level of the Premier League Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Standard (PLEDIS) in 2020. This is the highest accolade that can be achieved by a Premier League football club in this space.
Following an in-depth assessment by a panel over the summer, the Premier League concluded that West Ham had continued to make progress in the area of EDI and deserved to maintain the Advanced level.
“It is fantastic for the club and all of our incredible staff, that three years on from being one of the first clubs to be awarded the PLEDIS for our work in equality, diversity and inclusion, we’ve once again received the Premier League’s highest possible accolade,” said West Ham United Vice-Chair Karren Brady.
“It was an immense source of pride when we first received the award, but in many ways today’s honour is an even greater achievement, as it shows that we didn’t stand still, but instead we worked even harder to keep improving and challenging ourselves.
“The club’s well-communicated, zero tolerance stance on all forms of abuse and discrimination is undoubtedly achieving demonstrable impact and lasting change.”
“Throughout our long and illustrious history in East London, there is so much for us to be proud of as a club, and our continued success as an equity leader only serves to drive us to even greater heights.”
The Premier League panel found that the club’s senior leaders continued to drive forward equality, diversity and inclusion within and outside the club.
“The club’s well-communicated, zero tolerance stance on all forms of abuse and discrimination is undoubtedly achieving demonstrable impact and lasting change,” said the panel’s report.
“The panel highly commend the systematic approach being taken to embed EDI, for example ensuring that there is a clear connection between coaching, mentoring and partnerships.”
Image: Samuel Regan-Asante on Unsplash