The Cumberland is celebrating International Women’s Day by bringing together staff from across the business for a special photograph to celebrate its achievements in becoming a more inclusive workplace.
International Women’s Day is a global celebration of the achievements of women – a reminder of the progress made towards gender equality and the work still to be done.
This year’s theme is Inspire Inclusion – a topic close to the hearts of workers at The Cumberland.
Bringing the 18 women together for the photo was a chance to reflect on the way the building society has changed.
The Carlisle-based building society has embraced a number of policies and initiatives to increase the diversity of its workforce, and representation at the highest levels of the organisation.
The company achieved its own ambitious target to increase female representation at board and executive Level, from 19% in October 2018 to 50% just five years later.
Family-friendly and flexible working practices are encouraged throughout. The Cumberland has successfully implemented hybrid working and a more pragmatic approach to part-time or flexible working at all levels, it said.
Sarah Gill, head of change at The Cumberland, is one member of the team who has benefited from this inclusive culture.
“As a part-time female employee, inclusion is very important to me. I want to feel included and not held back by my decision to balance work and family commitments.
“My manager has been excellent at accommodating this, ensuring that key meetings are moved so I don’t miss out. I also want to lead by example and encourage others by creating an environment of inclusion where everyone feels they can come to work as their authentic self.”
Head of distribution Liz Eastburn, believes this year’s theme of Inspire Inclusion is incredibly important for all businesses.
She said: “As a leader, it’s about creating opportunities for all colleagues to be represented and to be heard. We make better decisions where all opinions and contributions are encouraged and listened to.”
“As an organisation, it’s important to have a diverse team of colleagues, if we all thought the same we would miss our weak points and things wouldn’t be challenging! I focus on creating a safe environment to speak up, that way we make sure we get the right outcome.”
Service desk operator Gemma McKain said: “I love International Women’s Day and I think it’s really important. It’s brilliant to feel inspired and empowered as a woman so I’m glad that we’re celebrated.”
Shelley Hayward, head of development and learning at The Cumberland, enjoyed taking part in the photo shoot.
“It was great to feel the energy in the room and bringing people together like this helps you realise how far we have come in every part of the business,” she said.
