Business in the Community

Opening Doors Forum: Leading with Inclusion
2026-02-12 10:00 - 11:00 (Europe/London) | Online event
Join our next Opening Doors Forum to share challenges and best practice on opening doors to diverse talent.

This is an online event.
Audience
Open to both members and non-members of Business in the Community (BITC). The event will be designed for HR Managers, Talent acquisition leads, EDI and Responsible business leads.

Background
Opening Doors is BITC’s flagship inclusive recruitment campaign. Free and open to all employers, the campaign aims to make 2 million jobs more accessible by building a supported network of businesses committed to fair and inclusive hiring. So far, 160+ employers are making 1.65m jobs more accessible. Join our campaign.

About the event
If the UK was made up of 100 employers, 22 would close their doors to disabled people, 35 would close their doors to school leavers and 55 would close their doors to ex-offenders. For employers, opening their doors to diverse talent creates social and economic value. BITC’s Opening Doors 2025 Progress report highlights that 72% of signatories are making their workforce more diverse, 64% are filling hard-to-fill vacancies and 53% are closing skills gaps – demonstrating the impact of employers sharing and learning together to improve outcomes. In 2026, the Opening Doors Forums will focus on each of the ‘Five Keys to Opening Doors’. Following on from our last Opening Doors Event on Partnership working (Key one), our next forum will be on ‘Showing your commitment to inclusion (Key two).
Join us for a practical session on how to:

Show candidates that inclusion truly matters to your organisation.

Share job roles through a wider range of channels.

Engage your employees on your inclusive recruitment approach.

Communicate your values and approach through diverse role models in an authentic way.

Event speaker:

Hannah Short, Inclusion & Diversity Manager, People Division, Leeds Building Society

About Opening Doors
Opening Doors is Business in the Community’s (BITC) flagship inclusive recruitment campaign. Open to all employers, and free to join, we have an ambition to make 2 million jobs more accessible to diverse talent by supporting employers to make changes to the way they recruit.
Business in the Community has created a simple framework to guide businesses through their inclusive recruitment journey. It identifies 25 actions grouped into the 5 keys to inclusive recruitment. Businesses are asked to identify at least three actions that they will implement during the campaign.

Booking and contact details and further information

Contact Jessica.hart@bitc.org.uk for any further questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

Business in the Community's Job Coaching Training
2026-02-17 09:30 - 12:30, 2026-03-19 09:30 - 12:30, 2026-04-16 09:30 - 12:30 | Online
Mandatory training session for employees of BITC member organisations, volunteering on the Job Coaching programme.

Business in the Community’s Job Coaching programme
Business in the Community’s (BITC) job coaching programme aims to engage businesses across the UK to support jobseekers through a series of coaching sessions.
Our ambition is to help build an inclusive workforce by supporting people who face barriers to employment across the UK.

How does it work?
BITC comprehensively trains employee volunteers as coaches, providing them with all the necessary tools and resources.
– Coaches are then matched with jobseekers to provide one-to-one support.– Coaches and jobseekers meet virtually for up to six, 60 minute sessions, usually 2-3 weeks apart.

Coaches and jobseekers benefit
Coaches help improve the skills, confidence and employment opportunities for the jobseeker while also enhancing their own skills and wellbeing.

Facilitated training workshop
In preparation for your role as coach and before we match you with a jobseeker, you will need to complete our three-hour online facilitated training workshop. Guidance and support are provided throughout the programme.

Outline of the event
Our training virtual sessions are designed to be interactive and engaging and are led by an experienced trainer. Please make sure you can access Teams for this session.
“Great content, good pace, enthusiastic delivery, good mix of content, clear explanations and answered all our questions.”
The training will cover the following;
– Structure and content of the job coaching programme.– Understanding jobseeker’s circumstances and the barriers they face.– Safeguarding.– Coaching tools including; active listening, giving feedback, the GROW model and more.
Please note: you need to attend the full three hours. Please don’t book a training if you are not able to attend the whole session.
We look forward to welcoming you to the training and supporting you soon.

Booking and contact details and further information

Contact coaching@bitc.org.uk if you have any questions about the Job Coaching programme or the training session itself.

Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out more about BITC’s Job Coaching programme.

New Member Induction- February 2026
2026-02-24 10:30 - 12:00 | Online event
Join us to learn how to maximise the value of your membership with Business in the Community (BITC).

This is a virtual event.
Audience
This event is open to new members of Business in the Community (BITC) or new contacts from existing BITC members in larger companies.

About the event
The New Member Induction is an opportunity for new members and contacts to better understand BITC’s purpose, values and missions. It highlights the key elements and opportunities of BITC Membership. This webinar also provides a chance for attendees to share expected ambitions and challenges, as well as ask any questions to existing members about their personal experiences and how BITC has added value to their organisation.

Event details
This event will induct new members, and new contacts from current member companies, to BITC. Specific objectives for the event are for new BITC contacts to:

Inspiration: Be inspired to take more action on responsible business with BITC.
Orientation: Have a clear understanding of what BITC does and how to make the most of that – aligned to the Responsible Business Map.

Networking: To meet other contacts within the community who you can work alongside in your responsible business journey.

Action: Identify the greatest opportunities for greater engagement.

Booking, contact details and further information

Contact Jessica Hart, Events Manager at BITC for further information.

Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

Peer Learning Forum: Pay Transparency
2026-02-26 14:00 - 15:30 | Online event
This PLF outlines legal duties and best practices on pay transparency under the EU Directive to help reduce Europe’s gender pay gap.

This is an online event taking place on Microsoft Teams
Audience
We are pleased to welcome Business in the Community (BITC) members, as well as non-members who have an advisory package with us. Hosted by our issue experts, there are 20 forums a year, covering a range of responsible business areas and enabling our members to discuss challenges, solutions and ideas.
This event will be of particular interest to HR and EDI professionals.

About the event
From June 2026, organisations with employees in an EU member state will need to comply with the EU Pay Transparency Directive, which requires gender pay gap reporting and other pay transparency measures.
Find out more about the Directive, its implications for UK businesses (whether required to comply with the Directive or not) and how you can gain competitive advantage in the recruitment and retention of a diverse workforce through a transparent and equitable approach to compensation.
Our event speakers include:

Deepinder Lamba, Deloitte. Deepinder is a Partner in Deloitte’s Reward practice and leads their Pay Equity & Transparency proposition for Europe. Deepinder is a seasoned Transformation and Change expert with a 27+ year track record of delivering value to clients by leading and executing complex, large-scale transformation programs. His passion lies in collaborating with organisations to define a compelling vision and purpose for their future, fostering enthusiasm, and driving unwavering commitment to achieve their strategic goals.
Meera Roy-Chowdhury, Deloitte. A former BITC inclusion adviser, Meera has over a decade’s experience helping organisations design fair, inclusive, and transparent reward and culture strategies. Currently she is focused on advising companies on the EU Pay Transparency Directive, turning compliance into an opportunity for stronger equity, trust, and engagement.

Background
BITC believes that UK businesses have the power and responsibility to progress gender equality. We advocate pay transparency as part of our eight-step route map to gender equality. However, Our Times Top 50 Employers for Gender Equality Insights Report 2025 notes that the gender pay gap remains one of the strongest indicators of structural inequality faced by women in the UK.

About Business in the Community’s Peer Learning Forums
BITC’s Peer Learning Forums provide a confidential environment to discuss common issues, solutions, and good practice. There will be an emphasis on discussion and sharing experiences. All contributions from businesses will be confidential within the group and won’t be shared externally by BITC.
Booking and contact details and further information

Contact Annette.Ettarh@bitc.org.uk , Event Manager, BITC for any further questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

RCT Business Club
2026-03-03 08:00 - 10:00 | South Wales Fire & Rescue Service Headquarters, Forest View, Llantrisant, Wales, CF72 8LX, United Kingdom
Join us at our next RCT Business Club event to connect with local businesses and here from experts on a range of topics

Join us and our RCT Business Club partners, USW, Coleg Y Cymoedd and RCT Council, at South Wales Fire Rescue Headquarters to hear how the Fire Service can help support your business with volunteering opportunities, hear from Network Recruitment Wales CEO Alyx Peters on the changes to the Employment Bill and take part in roundtable discussions about what is effecting your business and businesses within RCT. There will also be plenty of opportunity for networking.

Agenda
08:00 am – Arrival, tea/coffee/pastries, networking
08:15 am – Welcome
08:20 am – Fire service talkand opportunities
08:45 am – Employment Bill
09:00 am – Roundtable Discussions
09:30 am – Feedback
09:45 am – Networking
10:00 am – Event closes

Cross Organisational Mentoring Circles for Ethnically Diverse Employees
2026-03-03 10:00 - 11:00 | Online event
Business in the Community (BITC) invites you to attend an information session on its Cross Organisational Mentoring Circles Programme

This is an online event.
Audience
This event is open to both members and non-members of BITC, with a particular focus on those working in D&I (Diversity and Inclusion) and HR (Human Resources) who wish to learn more about the programme.

Background
Cross Organisational Mentoring Circles (COMC) creates a supportive space to connect Black, Asian, Mixed Race, and other ethnically diverse employees across our Responsible Business Network.
Participants are matched with other professionals from different organisations to share their experiences, challenges, and aspirations, working in circles. The mentoring circles are led by a senior leader from a participating organisation, who facilitates conversations and learning over a six-month period.
The mentoring circles empower participants to gain new insights, learn from each other’s experiences, and build a network of support and encouragement.
A cost is associated with participation in the programme, with both BITC member and non-member rates available. If you are a BITC member, please get in touch with your Relationship Manager or Adviser for more information. If you are not a member, feel free to contact us at comc@bitc.org.uk.

About the event
During this session, you will learn more about the programme’s structure, goals, and benefits. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions to the team.
This event is open to all organisations interested in learning more about the mentoring programme and how it can help your Race at Work Charter commitments. Registration is now open, with a deadline of 31st March 2026. Please note that applications are accepted from organisations only, not individuals.
Join us to learn more about this exciting initiative and take the first step toward building a supportive network of professionals from different organisations.

Booking and contact details and further information

Contact Jessica.hart@bitc.org.uk, Event Coordinator at BITC for any further questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

International Women’s Day: Advancing Gender Equality in 2026 and beyond
2026-03-05 10:00 - 11:00 | Online event
Join us this International Women’s Day 2026 to discuss employer actions that break barriers and drive change amid upcoming legislation.

This is an online event.
Audience
This event is open to both members and non-members of Business in the Community (BITC) and has been designed for HR people/Talent management practitioners/managers.

About the Event
Join us this International Women’s Day 2026 for a conversation on the two big themes this year:
Give To Gain – Unlock the power of reciprocity. When businesses and individuals give generously—through opportunities, mentorship, and support—they gain stronger teams, innovative ideas, and drive sustainable growth for economic success.
Balance the Scales – A call from UN Women to ensure fair, inclusive, and accessible justice for every woman and girl.
Why Responsible Business is the Path to Economic Success
Creating a gender-diverse workforce isn’t just about doing the right thing—it’s about driving measurable business results. Companies that prioritise inclusion outperform competitors in innovation, profitability, and employee engagement. Organisations that prioritise inclusion are 8 times more likely to have better business outcomes. Responsible business practices foster trust, attract top talent, and open doors to new markets. A 5% increase in the number of women in employment would add £125bn to UK GDP per annum.
When we invest in women, we invest in progress. By balancing the scales and giving to gain, organisations create ecosystems where everyone can thrive—and that translates into long-term economic success. Just a 10% increase in gender equality increases life expectancy by an average of 3 years for all genders.
What We’ll Explore

The Business Case for Gender Equality: Learn why mentoring, talent programs, and Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) support women to thrive at work
Celebrating New Legislation: Discover how upcoming legislation reforms laws such as harassment protections, gender pay gap, and menopause action plans will support women to stay employed, and why these changes should be embraced as milestones for progress.
Practical Tools for Change: A roundup of Business in the Community’s gender equality tools & toolkits, including gender pay gap reporting and the equal parental leave calculator.

Our Speakers will discuss key future developments and the benefits that supporting women to thrive has brought to their workplaces. explore what organisations can do to prepare.
Please join us, Shilpa Acharya, UK Inclusion Lead (Marsh), and Joanna Brewis, Professor of People and Organisations (Open University) for this enlightening event and contribute to a dynamic discussion on using gender equality to balance the scales.

Booking, contact details and further information

Contact events@BITC.org.uk for any further questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

Upskilling the UK for a Future Ready Economy
2026-03-10 10:00 - 11:00 | Online event
Join us to explore how green skills can prepare workforces, young people and communities for a fair, future-ready UK economy.

This is an online event.
Audience
This event is open to both members and non-members and will be particularly useful for HR and sustainability leaders.

Overview
Learn how businesses can build the green skills the UK needs for an inclusive, future-ready economy. Hear insights from BITC’s Green Skills Lab and Future Ready Communities pilots, and explore how businesses can prepare their workforce, young people, and communities for the jobs of tomorrow.
About the Event
The UK’s transition to a fair and future-ready economy depends on whether people have the right skills to thrive in rapidly changing industries. Green skills are increasingly essential across all sectors, yet many employers struggle to build a strong skills pipeline.
This webinar will share practical insights from Business in the Community’s Green Skills Lab and our Future Ready Communities programme. You will hear examples of how businesses are embedding green skills into their workforce planning, and how place-based pilot projects are helping young people and underserved communities to gain skills that will prepare them to access jobs.
Drawing on BITC’s experience over the last few years, we will explore:

What green skills are and why they matter.

How employers can develop future-ready skills within their organisation.

How businesses can invest beyond their own workforce to prepare the talent of the future.

The partnerships, behaviours and actions needed to support thriving people and thriving places.

This session will provide practical steps for any organisation preparing for the future of work.
Speakers for the event include:
Ruth Watson, Founder of EcologicoUK and Eco Connect
Ruth Watson is the founder of EcologicoUK and Eco Connect North East CIC, based in Teesside. She leads community focused work that makes sustainable living more accessible, through refill and low waste retail, workshops and community events, and a mobile eco hub that takes refill and circular economy activity into local communities.
EcologicoUK is the delivery partner for Business in the Community’s supported project at Dormanstown and Grangetown Primary Schools in Middlesbrough, helping pupils set up and run closed loop refill stations as well as a food waste farm shop as a young enterprise model that enables development of green skills while supporting families with low cost food and household essentials.
Max Finney, Senior Sustainability Manager, Shoosmiths
Max is the Senior Sustainability Manager, responsible for all elements of Shoosmiths’ sustainability programme including carbon reductions in line with the firm’s net zero targets, social impact through philanthropy, volunteering and pro bono and ensuring effective governance and accountability.
Prior to joining Shoosmiths, Max led sustainability strategy development and implementation across a variety of public and private industries including finance, healthcare, chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
Max has a Degree in Physical Geography and a Masters Degree in Carbon Management from the University of Edinburgh, as well as having completed an apprenticeship in Leadership with Imperial College London.

Background
BITC’s Future Ready Economy report argues that the UK will only achieve a fair, resilient and competitive economy if businesses invest in people, skills and places, while operating within planetary boundaries. Our work has found that access to good, future-ready jobs is distributed unevenly, with some communities at risk of being left behind as industries change. This webinar builds on those findings by focussing specifically on how businesses can support the development of green skills within their organisation and also across their communities.

Booking and contact details and further information

Contact events@bitc.org.uk for any further questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

Inclusion & Wellbeing Champion Forum: Impacts of AI for disabled employees
2026-03-11 10:00 - 11:00 | Online event
Join us for an opportunity to discuss shaping the risks and opportunities for employment of disabled employees presented by AI adoption.

This is an online event.
Audience
This event is open to Inclusion (Gender, Race and Inclusion) and Wellbeing Champions.

Background

BITC found that 90% of organisations are considering the way AI interacts with the equality, diversity and inclusion agenda. A tailored focus on the impact of AI and disabled employees must be prioritised to reduce the risk of stalling progress on the disability pay and employment gap.

About the Event
Are you using or considering AI and/or automation technologies in your workplace? Have you considered the impacts of AI on disabled employees?
Join BITC and the University of Birmingham to explore the impacts of AI on disabled people in the UK through the AI-EMPOWERED research project with Dr Daniel Wheatley, Director of the Work Inclusivity Research Centre, University of Birmingham.
This champion forum shares expert-led insight and provides space to contribute to understanding the impacts of AI and automation on disabled employees. Regardless of your organisation’s maturity or current use of AI technologies, research estimates that globally 92 million jobs will be displaced by 2030.
Disabled employees already experience disproportionate marginalisation and barriers to accessing good work, an inequity at risk of rising without responsible AI adoption.
This event will:
– Explore the AI Empowered research project aims
– Ensure inclusivity remains at the forefront when considering the use of AI
– Facilitate best practice learning to support disabled people in the AI era

Business in the Community’s work on Artificial Intelligence and Wellbeing:
Business in the Community has responded to the rapidly evolving rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) through our Responsible AI labs, spotlighting critical challenges AI poses if businesses fail to embrace responsible integration. Considering the impact of AI on marginalised groups has remained imperative to this approach, exploring the Gendered Impacts of Artificial Intelligence and Racial Bias in AI.
BITC’s Wellbeing campaign and BITC Workwell model positions thriving people at the heart of organisational purpose, culture and business strategy, providing a framework for an intersectional, inclusive and people-first approach. Inclusive AI practice should consider the lived experience of the one in seven workers in Britain with a disability and the broader workforce wellbeing implications of adoption to identify risks and mitigate accordingly.
Find out more about BITC’s work on wellbeing.

Guest Speaker
Our guest speaker is Dr Daniel Wheatley, Director of the Work Inclusivity Research Centre, University of Birmingham.
He will be discussing the AI EMPOWERED research project, exploring the impacts of AI on disabled people in the UK.

Booking and contact details and further information

Contact Jade Olivo for any further questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

Launch Event: Responsible AI Framework– Shaping the Future of Business
2026-03-12 14:00 - 17:00 | London WC1V
Join us in London for the official launch of Business in the Community’s Responsible AI Framework.

This is an in-person event
Audience
This event is open to members and non-members.

About the event
Join us at Verizon’s Innovation Hub in London for the official launch of insight’s from Business in the Community’s Responsible AI lab series. These insights have been informed by cross-sector business, not for profit organisations and subject matter experts. The insights will offer practical, actionable guidance to help organisations navigate responsible business in an AI world.
At this event, you’ll:

Discover how you can navigate the opportunities and risks of AI.
Hear from experts on the role of AI in shaping a fairer, greener, and more inclusive future.
Explore cutting-edge technology inside Verizon’s state-of-the-art Innovation Hub.
Connect with senior leaders and practitioners driving responsible innovation.

Refreshments
Refreshments will be provided.

Booking and contact details and further information

Contact Annette.Ettarh@bitc.org.uk, Event Manager, with any questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

Peer Learning Forum: Embedding purpose to create change
2026-03-17 10:00 - 11:00 | Online event
Join us to discuss the opportunities and challenges in achieving your purpose and creating long-term sustainable positive impact.

This is an online event taking place on Microsoft Teams

Audience
Business in the Community (BITC) members, as well as non-members who have an advisory package with us. Hosted by our issue experts, there are 20 forums a year, covering a range of responsible business areas and enabling our members to discuss challenges, solutions and ideas.

About the event
Purpose – or the reason a business exists beyond creating profit – is the embodiment of responsible business. A business isn’t responsible if it’s only trying to make someone rich and the most responsible businesses understand their purpose as the ‘northern star’ that guides all their responsible business efforts. At BITC we’re not that interested in what a purpose statement says (although marvel at communications genius), we’re more in how the purpose expresses itself through purposeful leadership, responsible decision making and innovation and through changes in the commercial offering.

BITC’s Responsible Business Healthcheck (our maturity matrices for leading responsible business) says that a ‘Transforming’ responsible business is one which has reviewed its commercial offering to ensure all products, services, investments and supply chain management align with the purpose. We cite companies like Patagonia, Interface and Lush as examples of the most purposeful companies, but achieving purpose presents many challenges. BITC’s Embedding Purpose framework presents 8 steps to achieving purpose across the business.

With the Global Purpose Standard in development and the Company Directors (Duties) Bill’s second reading in Parliament in January 2026, join us at this Peer Learning Forum to discuss the opportunities and challenges in achieving your purpose and creating long-term sustainable positive impact as a business.

About Business in the Community’s Peer Learning Forums
BITC’s Peer Learning Forums provide a confidential environment to discuss common issues, solutions, and good practice. There will be an emphasis on discussion and sharing experiences. All contributions from businesses will be confidential within the group and won’t be shared externally by BITC.

Booking and contact details and further information

Contact annette.ettarh@bitc.org.uk , Event Manager, BITC for any further questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

Overcoming Barriers to Fair Work through Anti-Racist Leadership
2026-03-17 14:00 - 15:00 | Online event
Join us to explore how anti-racist leadership can drive Fair Work by strengthening opportunity and effective voice in organisations

Audience
This session is open to BITC members and non-members.
Background
Join us on MS Teams for a focused session exploring how anti‑racist leadership can accelerate progress towards Fair Work, with particular emphasis on Opportunity and Effective Voice
Business in the Community (BITC) and CEMVO Scotland will share how anti‑racist practice drives systemic cultural change, improves workplace equity, and removes barriers to fair access to progression and influence.

About the Event
Sandra Kerr CBE, Race Director, Business in the Community, will present data and insights from the Race at Work Charter and the Race at Work 2025 Survey, highlighting key trends, structural challenges, and practical actions organisations can take to tackle systemic racism.
CEMVO Scotland will provide insight into common barriers organisations face when embedding anti-racist leadership and how these can be addressed through intentional strategy, policy reform, and leadership accountability.
Guest speakers sharing real-world organisational journeys towards anti-racism, including practical examples of transforming systems, policies, and management practices.
Participants will:

Increase their understanding of what anti-racist leadership looks like in practice.
Identify common structural and cultural barriers to fair progression and voice.
Gain practical examples of actions in leaders can take.
Identify at least one tangible anti-racist action they can implement within their organisation.

References
If any facts or statistics are included in your description a reference must be provided.
This must include the source URL.

Booking and contact details and further information

Contact evelyn.rorie@bitc.org.uk for any further questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

The King's Seeing is Believing Visit in London - 18 March 2026
2026-03-18 09:00 - 13:00 | London
Led by Peter Harrison, Non-Executive Chair, Morgan Sindall; Chair, Business in the Community

This is an in-person event. Attendance by invitation only.
Audience
• C-suite/Senior leaders

Background
Across the UK, nearly one in seven young people aged 16–24—close to one million individuals—are NEET. Nearly half of those who become NEET remain so a year later. This is more than a social concern—it’s a business issue. A generation without access to work means a shrinking talent pipeline, lower productivity, and fewer innovators entering our industries. At a time when many sectors are grappling with skills shortages and an ageing workforce, failing to engage young people represents a missed opportunity for growth, diversity, and long-term sustainability.
The recent Post‑16 Education and Skills White Paper set out an ambition for clear routes into work and training, but the scale of the challenge is significant: entry-level roles are harder to access, employment costs are rising, and technology is advancing faster than many can adapt. For business leaders, this presents both a responsibility and an opportunity to shape how early talent enters the workforce, how internships and apprenticeships are delivered, and how companies build pipelines of motivated, skilled future talent. Research shows that young people who have five or more meaningful employer encounters are 86% less likely to become NEET.

About this event
This Seeing is Believing visit will offer a unique opportunity to hear directly from young people, educators, experts, and employers about what’s working—and what isn’t—when it comes to preparing young people for the world of work. By engaging as leaders, we can work together and with Business in the Community on implementing solutions so that every young person can see and seize a future in work.

Booking and contact details and further information

For further information, please reach out to The King’s Seeing is Believing team (SIB@bitc.org.uk)
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

Building Fairer, More Inclusive Supply Chains Report Launch
2026-03-19 10:00 - 11:00 | Online event
Join BITC’s Race Campaign for the launch of the Building Fairer, More Inclusive Supply Chains Report.

Audience
Open to all Business in the Community (BITC) members and non-members. This event is designed for procurement, supply chain, sustainability and ESG professionals, HR and people management managers/practitioners, diversity and inclusion managers/practitioners and senior managers and would benefit those who took part in the Leadership, Employees, and Procurement YouGov survey.

Background
Join BITC’s Race Campaign for the launch of the Building Fairer, More Inclusive Supply Chains Report. This new report builds on findings from the 2024 Leadership, Employees, and Procurement YouGov Survey, which gathered 5,091 responses and included 2,889 open-text comments providing rich qualitative insight into the lived experiences of employees, leaders, and procurement professionals.
These survey findings were further explored through BITC’s Supply Chain Long Tables, which brought together diverse founders, small business owners, and large corporate employers to discuss how inclusive procurement can become standard practice across the UK.
The report explores how employers can create fairer, more inclusive supply chains by addressing key barriers faced by Black, Asian, Mixed Race and ethnically diverse-led SMEs and enterprise owners. It also shares practical recommendations for how large organisations can balance compliance and risk management with accessibility, transparency, and proportionality.

About the event
This webinar will unpack the findings from the new Building Fairer, More Inclusive Supply Chains Report, offering a deep dive into how organisations can strengthen inclusive procurement practice in 2026 and beyond.
Through data insights, discussion, and practical examples, this session will explore:

The gap in perspectives between SMEs and large organisations revealed through the Supply Chain Long Tables.
How procurement processes can be simplified and made more transparent.
Why proportionality, prompt payment, and supplier development matter for building trust and long-term resilience.
How the findings align with Commitment 7 of the Race at Work Charter Reset.

Attendees will also hear how BITC’s Inclusive Procurement Maturity Model (IPMM) can help organisations assess their current approach and take practical steps to embed inclusion and fairness in supply chains.
By attending this event, you will:

Gain exclusive early insight into the DISC Thematic Review Report findings.
Hear directly from researchers and leaders on shaping inclusive procurement policy and practice.
Learn how to apply the Race at Work Charter Reset’s Commitment 7 within your organisation.
Discover actionable steps to build stronger, fairer, and more resilient supplier relationships.

Speakers

Sandra Kerr CBE, Race Equality Director, BITC.
Dr Chidozie Umeh ACIPD, FHEA), Assistant Professor in Human Resource Management, Programme Leader MSc Human Resource Management, School for Business and Society University of York
Professor Nelarine Cornelius BSc, PhD, MBA, Professor of Organisation Studies; Associate Dean, People, Culture and Inclusion School of Business and Management, Queen Mary University of London
Nick Wright, Head of the Procurement Digital Garage, bp
Reshma Sheikh, Chief Executive, MSDUK
Jacqueline Moore, Policy and Implementation Lead, Office of the Small Business Commissioner

Business in the Community’s work on race equality
For 30 years, BITC has worked with employers to ensure all employees feel they belong, have a voice, are valued, and can be their true selves.
We know that inclusive and fair workplaces are key to unlocking productivity and performance. Black, Asian, Mixed Race and ethnically diverse staff still experience disparities in recruitment, retention, and progression. The Race in the Workplace: The McGregor-Smith Review highlighted the £24bn annual economic boost possible by tackling racial inequalities. Insights from the Race at Work surveys continue to shape our work, ensuring organisations benefit from the widest possible talent pool and a more inclusive future of work. The insights from our Race at Work surveys led BITC to create the Race at Work Charter, with 85 founding signatory organisations committed to improving equality of opportunity in the workplace. The charter now has more than 1100 signatories and our Race at Work surveys continue to shape the charter.
Find out more about BITC’s work on race equality.

Booking, contact details and further information

Contact events@bitc.org.uk, Events Coordinator at BITC for more information.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Peer Learning Forum: Promoting internal hiring & development
2026-03-25 10:00 - 11:00 | Online event
This peer learning forum explores best practice in the development and progression of diverse talent from within the existing workforce.

This is an online event taking place on Microsoft Teams
Audience
Business in the Community (BITC) members, as well as non-members who have an advisory package with us. Hosted by our issue experts, there are 20 forums a year, covering a range of responsible business areas and enabling our members to discuss challenges, solutions and ideas. This event will be of particular interest to HR and EDI professionals.

Background
Creating an inclusive workplace does not end with Opening Doors – it must continue through how we support, develop and promote our people.
Inclusive progression ensures that talent is recognised, nurtured and celebrated. By being intentional about feedback, development opportunities and promotion practices, leaders can foster environments where everyone has a fair chance to thrive
About the event
Building on this foundation, this session will look at how creating equitable access to development and progression from within your organisation is an essential component of workforce planning. Reflecting the communities you serve at every level of your organisation will drive innovation, productivity and align with long-term organisational needs. We will discuss what best practice in inclusive progression looks like, and how to reduce bias, enhance decision-making and ensure that talent is nurtured consistently across your organisation. We are delighted to be joined by the following speakers:
– David Carrigan, Group Director of Diversity, Inclusion and Wellbeing, SKY
– Chelsea Laundon, Head of Learning, Development and Talent Pathways, Allianz UK
Chelsea Laundon is the Head of Learning, Development and Talent Pathways at Allianz UK, where she leads the talent, leadership, learning, and emerging careers strategy across 7,000 employees. With experience in learning culture design, she specialises in building data-driven campaigns that drive measurable growth. Outside of work, Chelsea is currently training to run the London Marathon and plays golf.
David is the Group Director of Diversity, Inclusion, and Wellbeing at Sky. His career in D&I spans over 25 years. His expertise lies in spearheading equality, diversity, and inclusion initiatives across diverse sectors, including commercial business, large government divisions, and non-profit organisations. Beyond his corporate roles, David served as the Chair of the College of Police’s Equality and Human Rights Board, acted as a Trustee for the migrant charity Praxis, and contributed to advisory roles at UK Music and various government taskforces addressing inequality, social exclusion, and disability. He has also acted as a mentor for young people who are vulnerable and at risk of crime / social exclusion. A proud Brummie, David has called London home for two decades. Married with two daughters, he is not only a cricket and boxing enthusiast but also an unwavering fan of Birmingham City football club.

About Business in the Community’s Peer Learning Forums
BITC’s Peer Learning Forums provide a confidential environment to discuss common issues, solutions, and good practice. There will be an emphasis on discussion and sharing experiences. All contributions from businesses will be confidential within the group and won’t be shared externally by BITC.
Booking and contact details and further information

Contact events@bitc.org.uk , Event Coordinator, BITC for any further questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

Peer Learning Forum: Climate Action: Telling the positive story
2026-03-26 10:00 - 11:00 | Online event
Join us to discuss how businesses can reclaim the narrative and tell a positive story on climate action.

This is an online event taking place on Microsoft Teams

Audience
Business in the Community (BITC) members with advisory, as well as non-members who have an advisory package with us. Hosted by our issue experts, there are 20 forums a year, covering a range of responsible business areas and enabling our members to discuss challenges, solutions and ideas.

About the event
2025 was a turbulent time for sustainability – political discourse on net zero has started to fracture, the costs of climate mitigation continue to rise, and it is looking certain that we will overshoot our global goal to keep temperature rises to 1.5C.
Alongside this, businesses who have made quick progress with decarbonisation of their Scope 1 and 2 emissions are now faced with the more stubborn challenge of their supply chain impacts.
So, how do businesses move from “greenhushing” to championing net zero? How can we celebrate success whilst being honest about the challenges? How do we manage uncertainty?

About Business in the Community’s Peer Learning Forums
BITC’s Peer Learning Forums provide a confidential environment to discuss common issues, solutions, and good practice. There will be an emphasis on discussion and sharing experiences. All contributions from businesses will be confidential within the group and won’t be shared externally by BITC.

Booking and contact details and further information

Contact annette.ettarh@bitc.org.uk , Event Manager, BITC for any further questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

Cross Organisational Mentoring Circle Closing Ceremony - Cohort 14
2026-04-15 10:00 - 11:30 | Online event
Join mentors and mentees of the 14th Cohort to celebrate success together.

This is an online event.
Audience
Open to all Business in the Community (BITC) members and non-members who have participated in the 14th Cohort of the Cross Organisational Mentorting Circle (COMC) programme.

Background
Cross Organisational Mentoring Circles (COMC) creates a supportive space to connect Black, Asian, Mixed Race, and other ethnically diverse employees across our Responsible Business Network.
Participants are matched with other professionals from different organisations to share their experiences, challenges, and aspirations, working in circles. The mentoring circles are led by a senior leader from a participating organisation, who facilitates conversations and learning over a six-month period.
The mentoring circles empower participants to gain new insights, learn from each other’s experiences, and build a network of support and encouragement.
A cost is associated with participation in the programme, with both BITC member and non-member rates available. If you are a BITC member, please get in touch with your Relationship Manager or Adviser for more information. If you are not a member, feel free to contact us at comc@bitc.org.uk.

About the event
This special event brings together mentors and mentees from the 14th cohort of the Cross-Organisational Mentoring Circles as the programme draws to a close. It is an opportunity to celebrate achievements, share experiences and stories, and connect with peers across all circles.
Our Director of Inclusion and Wellbeing Advisory, Shannon Rivers, will offer reflections on the journey so far and what this milestone means for everyone involved. Throughout the event, attendees will have space to engage with one another, reflect on their growth, and express appreciation to those who have supported them along the way.
You will also hear from alumni and fellow mentors and mentees as they share their experiences and insights from the programme, which offer inspiration for the next chapter ahead.

Booking and contact details and further information

Contact Fiona.macleod@bitc.org.uk, Head of Events at BITC for any further questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

Peer Learning Forum: Working your way: employee passports and job crafting
2026-04-16 10:00 - 11:00 | Online event
Explore how employee passports, flexible adjustments, and holistic job-crafting approaches can support sustainable wellbeing at work.

This is an online event taking place on Microsoft Teams

Audience
We are pleased to welcome Business in the Community (BITC) members, as well as non-members who have an advisory package with us. Hosted by our issue experts, there are 20 forums a year, covering a range of responsible business areas and enabling our members to discuss challenges, solutions and ideas.
This event will be of particular interest to HR, wellbeing, and EDI professionals seeking practical ways to embed inclusive wellbeing through job design.

About the event
As organisations respond to rising expectations around flexibility, inclusion and health at work, many are moving beyond reactive adjustments toward proactive, person-centred job design.
This session will examine how employee passports and job-crafting frameworks can: – –

Enable continuity of support across roles and managers
Reduce barriers for disabled employees and those with fluctuating health conditions
Embed wellbeing into everyday organisational practice rather than standalone initiatives

Join us to explore practical approaches, shared challenges, and emerging good practice in creating work that works for everyone.

Background
BITC’s Workwell Model highlights the interdependence of physical, mental, social and financial wellbeing, shaped by leadership behaviours, job design, and organisational culture. This forum builds on BITC’s wider work supporting employers to create inclusive, healthy, and sustainable workplaces where people can thrive.

About Business in the Community’s Peer Learning Forums
BITC’s Peer Learning Forums provide a confidential environment to discuss common issues, solutions, and good practice. There will be an emphasis on discussion and sharing experiences. All contributions from businesses will be confidential within the group and won’t be shared externally by BITC.

Booking and contact details and further information

Contact Annette.Ettarh@bitc.org.uk , Event Manager, BITC for any further questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

Race at Work Charter Reset Surgery April 2026
2026-04-22 10:00 - 11:00 | Online event
Join this surgery to learn more about the Race at Work Charter Reset, what it means for your organisation, and what actions you can take.

Audience
This event is open to members and non-members of Business in the Community (BITC). These surgeries benefit anyone wishing to start or build on their organisation’s commitment to the Race at Work Charter.

Background
The Race at Work Charter Reset Surgeries are a chance for attendees to connect directly with Sandra Kerr CBE, Race Equality Director at BITC, to ask questions and explore how to make the most of the Charter Reset.
The Race at Work Charter Reset will reflect the latest insights from the Race at Work 2025 YouGov Survey and current workplace realities, with updates to three key commitments:

Commitment 1: Leaders and employers take action to support young people’s pathways into good work and enterprise.
Commitment 6: Support employees to progress from allyship to solidarity.
Commitment 7: Include Black, Asian, Mixed Race and ethnically diverse-led small business, founders and enterprise owners in supply chains.

Following the Charter reset on 7th October, these sessions will focus on the three pillars of the Charter Reset:
Reset – become or continue as a Charter signatory and refresh your organisation’s focus on race equality and fairness.
Commit – unlock talent by supporting young people’s pathways into good work and enterprise, progressing from allyship to solidarity and embedding inclusive procurement and diverse supply chains through tools such as our Inclusive Procurement Maturity Model (IPMM).
Inspire – take action, report progress, and share your organisation’s success stories.

About the webinar
This interactive surgery will:

Walk you through the Race at Work Charter Reset and what it means for your organisation.
Deep dive into Commitments 1, 6, and 7, exploring practical actions to support young people’s pathways into good work, build solidarity in the workplace, and champion diverse suppliers and fair procurement processes such as fair and prompt payment.
Highlight how to use Race at Work 2025 Survey insights to guide your next steps and measure progress.
Provide space to ask questions, share challenges, and hear from peers about effective approaches.

About the Race at Work Charter
The Race at Work Charter Reset sets out seven commitments for employers to drive fairness and equality so that Black, Asian, Mixed Race and ethnically diverse employees are represented at all levels of an organisation.
Charter Reset Commitments:

Leaders and employers take action to support young people’s pathways into good work and enterprise.
Capture ethnicity data and publicise progress.
Commit at board level to zero tolerance of harassment and bullying.
Inclusive leaders and managers ensure fair and equitable access to opportunities and development for everyone in their teams.
Inclusive leaders take action that supports Black, Asian, Mixed Race and ethnically diverse employee career progression.
Support employees to progress from allyship to solidarity.
Include Black, Asian, Mixed Race and ethnically diverse-led small business, founders and enterprise owners in supply chains.

Business in the Community’s work on race equality
For 30 years, BITC has worked with employers to ensure all employees feel they belong, have a voice, are valued, and can be their true selves.
We know that inclusive and fair workplaces are key to unlocking productivity and performance. Black, Asian, Mixed Race and ethnically diverse staff still experience disparities in recruitment, retention, and progression. The Race in the Workplace: The McGregor-Smith Review highlighted the £24bn annual economic boost possible by tackling racial inequalities. Insights from the Race at Work surveys continue to shape our work, ensuring organisations benefit from the widest possible talent pool and a more inclusive future of work. The insights from our Race at Work surveys led BITC to create the Race at Work Charter, with 85 founding signatory organisations committed to improving equality of opportunity in the workplace. The charter now has more than 1100 signatories and our Race at Work surveys continue to shape the charter.
Find out more about BITC’s work on race equality.

Booking, contact details and further information

Contact events@bitc.org.uk, Events Coordinator at BITC for more information.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Peer Learning Forum: Creating social impact on a shoestring
2026-04-29 10:00 - 11:30 | Online event
Join us to create real social impact on a shoestring, learn from others and ask the right questions to make limited funds go further.

This is an online event taking place on Microsoft Teams

Audience
Business in the Community (BITC) members, as well as non-members who have an advisory package with us. Hosted by our issue experts, there are 20 forums a year, covering a range of responsible business areas and enabling our members to discuss challenges, solutions and ideas.

About the event
The December budget left no one feeling wealthier and immigration, economy and health continue to be the top three issues of concern for the UK public. ‘Hidden homelessness’ has increased by nearly a third since 2020 (Crisis) and 2 million children continue to be in ‘deep material poverty’. The good news is that the social impact investment market has grown to £11.2bn in 2024 (reported in Dec 25), a 10% increase on 2023. BITC member companies are more and more conscious of the requirement for businesses to fill the gap to shift the dial on social impact in the UK, not only because it’s the right thing to do, but because without a thriving society healthy employees, wealthy customers and robust suppliers cease to exist.

Whilst some larger BITC members are working with us to define their positive impact across their entire business and investing in long term partnerships to create systemic change (see the 100 year partnership between Aviva and The Wildlife Trust for inspiration), not everyone has the significant £££ to invest that the business case warrants. Businesses who are focusing on one or two really good things, using their limited resources or shoestring budgets very strategically, are still contributing to their piece of the social impact pie. Join BITC members at this Peer Learning Forum to consider how to create social impact on a shoestring, learn from others what they’ve been able to achieve and discuss the key questions to ask yourself to make high impact decisions with limited funds.

About Business in the Community’s Peer Learning Forums
BITC’s Peer Learning Forums provide a confidential environment to discuss common issues, solutions, and good practice. There will be an emphasis on discussion and sharing experiences. All contributions from businesses will be confidential within the group and won’t be shared externally by BITC.

Booking and contact details and further information

Contact annette.ettarh@bitc.org.uk , Event Manager, BITC for any further questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

Building Psychological Safety in the Workplace
2026-04-30 09:30 - 13:30 | Birmingham B4 6AT
Join us to learn, connect, and collaborate on creating inclusive, psychologically safe workplace cultures.

This is an in-person event hosted by Amey.
Audience
This event is members only. It is open to all members and will be of particular interest to EDI and wellbeing leads, HR, line managers and senior leaders.

Background
Psychological safety is the shared belief that people can speak up at work without fear of negative consequences. In psychologically safe environments, employees feel able to ask questions, share ideas, challenge decisions, and admit mistakes while still being treated with respect. It is not about being “nice,” avoiding conflict, or lowering standards; rather, it enables honest dialogue, learning, and accountability. When psychological safety is present, people are more willing to contribute fully because they trust that their voice will be valued.
Psychological safety is critical because it directly affects how well organisations perform and make decisions. When people feel safe to speak up, risks and errors are identified earlier, assumptions are challenged, and better decisions are made. Teams are more innovative because individuals are willing to experiment, learn from failure, and offer new ideas without fear of blame. In contrast, low psychological safety leads to silence, missed opportunities, and preventable mistakes, often at significant cost to the organisation.
Getting psychological safety right also has a profound impact on engagement, wellbeing, and retention. Workplaces where people feel unsafe often experience higher stress, disengagement, and burnout, as employees spend energy protecting themselves rather than contributing. Leaders play a crucial role in shaping these environments through their everyday behaviours, such as how they respond to mistakes, invite input, and handle disagreement. Organisations that intentionally build psychological safety create cultures of trust and resilience, enabling people to perform at their best and sustain success over time.

About This event
Kindly hosted by Amey, this event will bring together professionals to share perspectives, challenge assumptions, and learn from one another’s experiences. Through open discussion and practical insights, we will explore how modelling psychologically safe behaviours can strengthen leadership, boost team performance, and improve morale and retention. Whilst also connecting with like-minded peers, learning from real-world challenges and solutions, and building supportive cross-sector relationships.
Speakers
Confirmed Panellists:

Sarah Minor-Massy, Head of Inclusion, Engagement and Culture, PWC
Kate Hinder, Inclusion & Wellbeing Advisory Lead, Business in the Community

Agenda
9.30am: Arrive from this time
10.00: Keynote Session
10.45: Breakout Session 1
11.30: Break
11.45: Breakout Session 2
12.30pm: Insights session
12.45 -1.30pm: Networking Lunch

Booking and contact details and further information

Contact events@bitc.org.uk, Events Coordinator at BITC for any further questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

North West Responsible Business Impact Showcase
2026-04-30 17:00 - 19:00 | Manchester M2, United Kingdom
A curated night spotlighting the brands, people and communities building our region’s future.

This is an in-person event

Audience
This event is open to members and non-members.

Background
One of the key objectives of the North West Regional Leadership Board is to advance the responsible business movement across the region. This event will showcase successful collaborations between members, Business and the Community and the wider community, while promoting responsible business practices more broadly.

About This event
Join Business in the Community’s North West Regional Leadership Board to celebrate the strong links between businesses and communities in our region. Hear about successful collaborations, understand the work that goes on to achieve this from both sides, and connect together to improve responsible business practices across the North West.
Hosted at Manchester’s innovative new workspace Island, this event will bring business professionals and community leaders together to showcase the art of the possible.

Refreshments
Light refreshments will be available.

Booking and contact details and further information

Contact Alice.Young@bitc.org.uk with any further questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

Developing a Pride of Place Prospectus
2026-05-06 10:00 - 11:00 | Online event
Join BITC and leading UK-wide place-makers to help you to firmly put your Place on the map.

This is a virtual event.
Audience
Open to all.
The primary audience is the existing Pride of Place Network, particularly stakeholders involved in Places that have been in operation for less than 3 years.
Secondary audiences include: All existing PoP Board Members and partners; All BITC members; PoP Prospects; Other interested businesses, local/combined authorities and voluntary organisations; charitable funders and thought leaders.

Event details
Developing a Pride of Place Prospectus is a crucial way of articulating the long-term vision, strategy, and impact of your Place Partnership.
This interactive BITC webinar will support Pride of Place partners at different stages of their placemaking journeys to learn from peers and practitioners who have developed and delivered a successful Prospectus.
A panel of business and cross-sector leaders from across BITC’s Pride of Place Network will reflect on their experiences of crafting a Prospectus for their Place, focused on:
– Engaging with diverse stakeholders to understand key local challenges and opportunities
– Building a compelling narrative that builds increased support for your Place
– Leveraging your strategic relationships to add value to your Place Prospectus
– Using a Prospectus to drive long-term, sustainable growth for your Place.

Background

BITC’s Pride of Place programme helps places across the UK take ownership of their futures and tackle their most pressing challenges. It brings the private, public, and voluntary sectors together to build and deliver a vision for their future that serves everyone, with input from everyone. To date, Pride of Place has worked with over 75 partner businesses to make an impact in 18 places across the UK.
Attendees will be introduced to the Pride of Place Learning Hub (supported by Aviva, Pride of Place Strategic Partner) a free learning resource designed to help guide you on your Placemaking journey.

Booking, contact details and further information

Contact Annette Ettarh, Events Manager at BITC for further information.

Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

Opening Doors Forum: Job Descriptions That Welcome Diverse Talent
2026-05-07 10:00 - 11:00 | Online event
Join our next Opening Doors Forum to share challenges and best practice on opening doors to diverse talent.

This is an online event.
Audience
Open to both members and non-members of Business in the Community (BITC). The event will be designed for HR Managers, Talent acquisition leads, EDI and Responsible business leads.

Background
Opening Doors is BITC’s flagship inclusive recruitment campaign. Free and open to all employers, the campaign aims to make 2 million jobs more accessible by building a supported network of businesses committed to fair and inclusive hiring. So far, 160+ employers are making 1.65m jobs more accessible. Join our campaign.

About the event
If the UK was made up of 100 employers, 22 would close their doors to disabled people, 35 would close their doors to school leavers and 55 would close their doors to ex-offenders. For employers, opening their doors to diverse talent creates social and economic value. BITC’s Opening Doors 2025 Progress report highlights that 72% of signatories are making their workforce more diverse, 64% are filling hard-to-fill vacancies and 53% are closing skills gaps – demonstrating the impact of employers sharing and learning together to improve outcomes.
In 2026, the Opening Doors Forums focus on each of the ‘Five Keys to Inclusive Recruitment’. Following on from Forums on Keys 1 (Partnerships) and 2 (Showing your commitment to inclusion), our next forum will be on ‘Using comprehensive job descriptions with inclusive language’ (Key 3).
Join us for a practical session on:
· Writing job adverts that are clear and accessible to all candidates.
· Using neutral, jargon-free language and avoiding unnecessary barriers.
· Benefits and challenges around sharing full role and workplace information (salary, hours, location, policies).
· Making the application process simple and transparent.
Speakers include:
·Justine Pernice, Diversity, Inclusion and Wellbeing Manager, Aldermore Bank PLC

About Opening Doors
Opening Doors is Business in the Community’s (BITC) flagship inclusive recruitment campaign. Open to all employers, and free to join, we have an ambition to make 2 million jobs more accessible to diverse talent by supporting employers to make changes to the way they recruit.
Business in the Community has created a simple framework to guide businesses through their inclusive recruitment journey. It identifies 25 actions grouped into the 5 keys to inclusive recruitment. Businesses are asked to identify at least three actions that they will implement during the campaign.

Booking and contact details and further information

Contact events@bitc.org.uk for any further questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

The King's Seeing is Believing Visit in Sheffield, 12 May 2026
2026-05-12 09:00 - 15:00 | Sheffield
Led by Andy Milner, Chief Executive Officer, Amey

This is an in-person event. Attendance by invitation only.
Audience
• C-suite/Senior leaders

Background
In Sheffield, inclusive recruitment is not just a social ambition, it is essential to the city’s long term economic success. This Seeing is Believing visit will showcase why widening access to opportunity is vital for Sheffield’s economy and communities, and how business leaders can take practical, measurable steps to unlock talent, drive growth and improve social mobility.
Aligned with Sheffield’s Pride of Place Partnership and the city’s wider social mobility and growth agendas, the visit will highlight both the need and the opportunity. Employment and skills are top priorities within the South Yorkshire Combined Authority strategy, and inclusive recruitment is a driving principle of the Sheffield Growth Plan, rooted in the belief that “talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not.” Yet too many people remain excluded from the workforce despite having the potential to contribute.
Participants will hear directly about the barriers faced by those most excluded, including young people not in education, employment or training, care leavers, unpaid carers and young families at risk of homelessness. Through first hand insight and discussion, business leaders will explore the role they can play in creating pathways into work, stability and independence, and how recruitment and human resources practices can evolve to remove barriers rather than reinforce them.
The visit is designed to catalyse meaningful, long term action. Businesses will be encouraged to adapt outreach, recruitment and human resources policies to better support underrepresented groups, to deepen sustained collaboration through Sheffield Pride of Place Partnership, which is uniquely placed to convene, connect, campaign and enable action, and to build practical partnerships with local charities and community organisations, contributing time, talent and resources to support those furthest from opportunity.
By embedding inclusive recruitment into long term business strategy, Sheffield’s employers can help unlock untapped talent and build a stronger, more inclusive and more prosperous city.

About this event
This Seeing is Believing visit will offer a unique opportunity to hear directly from young people, educators, experts, and employers about what’s working—and what isn’t—when it comes to preparing young people for the world of work. By engaging as leaders, we can work together and with Business in the Community on implementing solutions so that every young person can see and seize a future in work.

Booking and contact details and further information

For further information, please reach out to The King’s Seeing is Believing team (SIB@bitc.org.uk)
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

Peer Learning Forum: Refreshing your Responsible Business strategy
2026-05-12 10:00 - 11:30 | Online event
Join us to explore how companies refresh responsible business strategies, seize opportunities, and avoid pitfalls.

This is an online event taking place on Microsoft Teams
Audience
Business in the Community (BITC) members with advisory, as well as non-members who have an advisory package with us. Hosted by our issue experts, there are 20 forums a year, covering a range of responsible business areas and enabling our members to discuss challenges, solutions and ideas.

About the event
You’ll have often heard BITC’s Responsible Business Strategy & Purpose team mention that there is a danger when companies think about responsible business that ‘all their strategic bones leave their bodies’. A business wouldn’t launch a new product or invest in a new operating system without understanding the need, the business case and the strategic approach to increasing ROI. And yet…when it comes to responsible business there are still many companies that can’t clarify the ‘why’ and overarching ‘how’ for their approach. Other companies have long been strategic, so much so, that their responsible business approach is embedded in their commercial strategy and there is a clear understanding about how it increases profits (Bain & Co and EcoVadis 2023).
Regardless of the current or prior approach, external drivers are continuing to force companies to be more strategic and get a greater bang for their buck. Employees are expecting more, consumers are expecting more, clients are demanding more and regulation continues to increase at an ongoing fast pace. Responsible business isn’t about doing all the things in all the ways, it’s about focusing on the material issues, setting goals that everyone can get behind and then delivering a tight strategy that achieves those goals. Join us at this Peer Learning Forum to hear from members who have been refreshing their strategy and the opportunities this has presented. Discuss with others the challenges and pitfalls, so you can avoid them!
Speaker:

Gareth Edwards, VWW Partner, VWW

About Business in the Community’s Peer Learning Forums
BITC’s Peer Learning Forums provide a confidential environment to discuss common issues, solutions, and good practice. There will be an emphasis on discussion and sharing experiences. All contributions from businesses will be confidential within the group and won’t be shared externally by BITC.
Booking and contact details and further information

Contact events@bitc.org.uk, Event Coordinator, BITC for any further questions.
Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community

Business in the Community's Job Coaching Training
2026-05-14 09:30 - 12:30 | Online event
Mandatory training session for employees of BITC member organisations, volunteering on the Job Coaching programme.

Business in the Community’s Job Coaching programme
Business in the Community’s (BITC) job coaching programme aims to engage businesses across the UK to support jobseekers through a series of coaching sessions.
Our ambition is to help build an inclusive workforce by supporting people who face barriers to employment across the UK.

How does it work?
BITC comprehensively trains employee volunteers as coaches, providing them with all the necessary tools and resources.

Coaches are then matched with jobseekers to provide one-to-one support.
Coaches and jobseekers meet virtually for up to six, 60 minute sessions, usually 2-3 weeks apart.

Coaches and jobseekers benefit
Coaches help improve the skills, confidence and employment opportunities for the jobseeker while also enhancing their own skills and wellbeing.

Facilitated training workshop
In preparation for your role as coach and before we match you with a jobseeker, you will need to complete our three-hour online facilitated training workshop. Guidance and support are provided throughout the programme.

Outline of the event
Our training virtual sessions are designed to be interactive and engaging and are led by an experienced trainer. Please make sure you can access Teams for this session.
“Great content, good pace, enthusiastic delivery, good mix of content, clear explanations and answered all our questions.”
The training will cover the following;

Structure and content of the job coaching programme.
Understanding jobseeker’s circumstances and the barriers they face.
Safeguarding.
Coaching tools including; active listening, giving feedback, the GROW model and more.

Please note: you need to attend the full three hours. Please don’t book a training if you are not able to attend the whole session.
We look forward to welcoming you to the training and supporting you soon.

Booking and contact details and further information

Contact coaching@bitc.org.uk if you have any questions about the Job Coaching programme or the training session itself.

Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out more about BITC’s Job Coaching programme.

New Member Induction- May 2026
2026-05-20 10:30 - 11:30 | Online event
Join us to learn how to maximise the value of your membership with Business in the Community (BITC).

This is a virtual event.
Audience
This event is open to new members of Business in the Community (BITC) or new contacts from existing BITC members in larger companies.

About the event
The New Member Induction is an opportunity for new members and contacts to better understand BITC’s purpose, values and missions. It highlights the key elements and opportunities of BITC Membership. This webinar also provides a chance for attendees to share expected ambitions and challenges, as well as ask any questions to existing members about their personal experiences and how BITC has added value to their organisation.

Event details
This event will induct new members, and new contacts from current member companies, to BITC. Specific objectives for the event are for new BITC contacts to:

Inspiration: Be inspired to take more action on responsible business with BITC.
Orientation: Have a clear understanding of what BITC does and how to make the most of that – aligned to the Responsible Business Map.

Networking: To meet other contacts within the community who you can work alongside in your responsible business journey.

Action: Identify the greatest opportunities for greater engagement.

Booking, contact details and further information

Contact Annette Ettarh, Events Manager at BITC for further information.

Full joining instructions will be sent before the event.

Find out how your organisation can become a member of Business in the Community
