Inland Revenue Is Finalist In National Employer Of The Year Awards

The Newcastle-upon-Tyne Inland Revenue Office is in the running to lift a prestigious national award which recognises innovation and creative thinking in work-life balance.

The Inland Revenue has been short listed by the Parents at Work charity's judging panel for the 'Driving Diversity Award' supported by Ford Motor Company Limited. Four dedicated Diversity and Equality Advisers (DEAs) work proactively to embed diversity principles and offer support and guidance to Inland Revenue managers and employees.

Successful policies include placements for long-term unemployed people with disabilities, acting as liaison between charitable organisation and the business and agreeing alternative working patterns for carers. The end result is the retention of skilled employees who feel valued by the organisation.

"Judging is now underway and the winner will be announced on 26 November," said Sarah Jackson, chief executive of Parents at Work, a charity that provides information and support to working parents. "It is inspiring to see such a wide range of organisations taking work-life balance seriously and demonstrating the business benefits it can bring."

Representatives from both Ford and Parents at Work make up the five-strong judging panel. The winner will receive a silver salver from Ford at an awards gala ceremony later this year.

Surinder Sharma, Ford's director of diversity, said: "Ford has a long track record of positive diversity actions and therefore it is only natural that we are pleased to support this great initiative."