What diversity and inclusion means to OS

We’re all diverse. Want to be included. Feel equal.

Large audience of staff listening to a talk in the Atrium of Ordnance Survey HQ

At OS we define diversity as the mix of all of us – all people and the differences among us which includes things like our experiences, perspectives, and the many ways we choose to live our lives. Inclusion is the ‘how’ to diversity’s ‘what’ – diversity can only thrive in an inclusive environment; that’s why we talk inclusion and diversity.

 A few words from our CEO, Nick Bolton

"At OS it’s vital that everyone feels included and that respect runs through the organisation. Inclusion and diversity isn’t a one-off initiative, it’s something we should continuously embrace and continue to empower people by respecting and appreciating what makes them different.

Building a more inclusive workplace will help us get the diverse talent and ideas in-house to serve our customers and both an evolving Britain and world. Creating an environment where everyone feels included and able to contribute to their fullest is about our long-term success too; evidence shows that more diverse organisations perform better. Genuine collaboration, problem solving, and innovation across diverse teams will strengthen our collective experience and performance as one OS."

Our Colleague Networks

Our networks are one of our greatest assets; made up of colleagues with a range of lived experiences, led by incredible network leads, and sponsored by members of our Executive Leadership Team, they complement our 'all in' approach to diversity by amplifying the voice of colleagues who form part of our minority groups. They provide a wide-range of support for us here at OS – helping us shape our approach and land our plans so we can be confident we're making informed decisions. 

Women+ Development Network

Our mission is to empower members to grow, develop and thrive within their careers, by leveraging the opportunities of the Women+ Development Network community at OS. We do this by providing a safe space where people can bring their challenges, thoughts and ideas without fear of judgement or criticism, and through offering a variety of activities and services to our members. Our monthly meetings cover key themes which are important to members of the network and focussed sessions, which include: events bringing in experts to share career guidance, leveraging our connections across the geospatial and wider professions.

LGBT+ at OS network

The LGBT+ at OS network is open to LGBT+ employees and allies. The network aims to make OS a welcoming, safe, and inclusive place for LGBT+ people to be themselves. We provide a place to make friends and network, and support and advice to colleagues on LGBT+ topics. We celebrate events like Pride, LGBT+ History month and Trans day of visibility, and are continually working to make sure OS is a place where people feel safe, seen and valued, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. 

Ethnic Minorities Network

We aim to provide those who identify as an ethnic minority, as well as those who are interested in learning more, with a safe and welcoming space. This space can be used to highlight cultural events, discuss any questions or concerns and signpost sources of support, as well as to ask and learn more about diverse cultures, ethnicities, and practices.

Religion and Belief Network

We aim to provide those who identify as religious or having certain philosophical beliefs, as well as those who are interested in learning more, with a safe and welcoming space. This space can be used to highlight particular religious events, discuss any related questions or concerns and signpost sources of support, as well as to ask and learn more about different religions, beliefs, and practices, including what religion and belief itself means to different people.

Accessibility Network 

Our mission is to help OS be recognised as an inclusive organisation where everyone has the same access to experiences and opportunities for growth, regardless of mental health, or physical requirements.

Neurodiversity Network

Neurodiversity is the diversity or variation of cognitive functioning in people. Everyone has a unique brain and therefore different skills, abilities, and needs. Someone who is neurodivergent behaves, thinks and learns differently compared to those who are neurotypical. The network provides a safe, confidential, and supportive environment for colleagues who identify as Neurodiverse to meet and share their views, and to make OS a welcoming and inclusive place for Neurodiverse colleagues to be themselves and fulfil their potential. We are open to anyone, whether they identify as Neurodiverse or want to support or learn more.

Our zero-tolerance to bullying and harassment, as well as our diversity and inclusion policies, help us all understand our part to play.

They help make sure we’re all respecting our diversity, are committed to including everybody, and that we’re celebrating our differences.

After all, we’re all diverse.

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Associations

OS LGBT+ logoCommitted Member of Inclusive Employers logoDisability Confident Employer badgeWDN logoOS Neurodiversity Network logo

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