National Inclusion Week 2025

16 September 2025

Each year, organisations across the UK come together to celebrate National Inclusion Week (NIW) - a dedicated time to reflect, challenge, and advance inclusion in the workplace.

This year, from 15th to 21st September, the focus is sharper than ever with the powerful theme Now is the Time.

National Inclusion Week is more than a celebration - it's a call to action. 

It invites every organisation, team, and individual to assess where we are on our inclusion journey and where we want to go next. 

Why It Matters

Inclusion is not static - it requires continuous commitment and learning. This year’s theme challenges organisations to make inclusion not just a conversation, but a core part of how we work, lead, and collaborate.

It encourages us to embed inclusion into everything we do - from the way we recruit and promote, to how we listen, support, and create a sense of belonging for everyone. 

It's a reminder that our efforts must be both sustainable and adaptable to the evolving needs of Vale colleagues and also that of our communities.

Here’s a video featuring a handful of Vale colleagues talking about what inclusion means to them:

Looking Ahead

National Inclusion Week isn't just about what happens in one week - it’s about building momentum for long-term change. It's an opportunity to reconnect with our values, challenge our assumptions, and ensure that everyone - regardless of background, identity or experience - feels seen, heard and valued.

Explore Our Staff Networks

We’re especially proud of our staff networks – ABL (our disability staff network), Diverse (for colleagues from the Global Majority and allies), and GLAM (our LGBTQI+ network). 

These groups play a vital role in helping to shape our workplace culture, promote awareness, and provide support to all staff.

Our networks are more than support groups – they are safe, welcoming spaces where colleagues can come together to share experiences, discuss the issues that matter to them, and influence positive change across the organisation. 

Whether you're looking to connect with others, raise awareness, or simply listen and learn, our networks offer a powerful platform for conversation and collaboration.