Press releases
Arriva highly commended for its commitment to equality
9 June 2003
Transport services organisation Arriva plc has received an award for its commitment to gender equality in the workplace and the initiative it has developed which supports women at work.
Arriva was highly commended for its project 'The Arriva approach to diversity – Valuing difference,' at the – Opportunity now awards'. The awards, held every year, recognise the progress that companies make towards gender equality and the determination shown to putting gender on their business agenda.
'The Arriva approach to diversity' is a new initiative introduced across the company, designed to create an environment which maximises the potential of all employees and acknowledges, understands and appreciates all differences in people, whether customers or employees. It particularly focuses on the recruitment of all types of people into Arriva.
As part of the initiative, Arriva established a Diversity committee, which includes senior managers, and a Diversity best practice forum.
Opportunity Now is a business-led campaign that works with employers to realise the economic potential and business benefits that women at all levels contribute to the workforce.
Opportunity now is a part of Business in the community (BitC), an organisation set up to help businesses contribute to the social and economic regeneration of local communities, by sharing their skills, expertise, influence and time.
Arriva is a member of BitC and is involved in a number of initiatives to support the local communities in which it operates across the UK . Activities include playing a key role in the Rural action initiative to assist companies make a positive impact in rural communities, as well as the mentoring of youngsters to help them make the transition from school to the world of work.
Notes to editors
- A photo to accompany the release is available from Arriva plc's corporate communications department.
Caption: Clara Freeman, chairman of Opportunity now, presents Arriva's Julie Allan and Jamie Whiteman with their Highly Commended certificate.
