Diversity network

Inclusion & Belonging

We put people and culture at the heart of our growth, because growth is delivered by people, and the right culture empowers people to thrive. We talk about the Feel — our culture — and the Deal — our people proposition. Inclusion and belonging sit at the centre of both. The evidence is clear - when we feel we belong, we engage more and perform better* - and that is good for growth.

Our vision is to make inclusion and belonging a defining part of our workplace, 'Every one, Every day'. It brings the Feel and the Deal together in a practical plan that helps us work, thrive and win - together.

OUR NETWORKS

Our networks form a vital part of our inclusive culture at BDO. They support the firm to be more inclusive through creating safe spaces and raising awareness of different backgrounds.
We now have 12 networks spanning across different areas of diversity and they welcome all employees who identify with a specific diversity aspect or want to step up as an ally and learn more.

Our stories

PRIDE

PRIDE recognises that BDO and indeed the world are not homogenous environments, but that society is made up of a blend of countless intersecting identities.

We have a specific focus to support colleagues on matters of sexual orientation and gender identity and work with HR and the Leadership team on informing policy around LGBTQ+ inclusion. PRIDE was founded with the aim of creating a safe, open-minded, and encouraging work environment when it comes to matters of gender and sexual identity, so that everyone can thrive.

CEDAR Network

Our Celebrating Ethnic Diversity and Races Network was created to represent our diverse workforce and increase representation, retention, and leadership ranks for our ethnically diverse colleagues. Through networking events, educational activities and mentoring opportunities, we promote a safe space for people to succeed, collaborate and have the conversations that matter. An offshoot of the main network are also the East & South East Asia Network and The African Caribbean Heritage Network, which are open to all to learn about the cultures of the regions and support those from the communities.

Christian Network

The network’s intention is to support Christians at BDO, encouraging them to Be Yourself and to support the aims and objectives of the firm’s Unifying Culture strategy. BDO’s Christian network aims to encourage and support one another as a community of believers in BDO and to provide a visible opportunity for people to learn about Christian faith and practice, emphasising that Jesus is for everyone.

Enabled Network

Our Enabled Network is open to all – whether you have a disability or long-term health condition, are caring for such an individual, or want to be an ally. The Network’s vision is to build on the inclusive culture of BDO where you can Be Yourself and create an environment where anyone identifying as having a different ability can truly thrive.

Inspire

BDO Inspire is our gender balance network. We adhere to the motto that what is good for women is not necessarily bad for men and encourage all genders to attend. Through positive role modelling, Inspire aims to empower women at all levels at BDO with skills-based practical workshops, guest speakers and networking events online and in person.

Jewish Network

Our Jewish Network’s aim is to raise awareness and understanding across the firm about some of the key elements of the Jewish faith, including dietary laws, weekly Sabbath observance and the Jewish festivals.

Muslim network

BDO’s Muslim Network supports Muslim employees to practice their religion in a manner balanced to the professional environment; recognising that both work and faith are essential elements of daily life. Our network provides a forum for discussion and events on a variety of topics such as raising awareness and understanding of Islam, charity and community work.

Working parents and carers network

A company-wide support network and community for working parents and carers. The group aims to provide people with the opportunities to be seen as parents without bias. Giving them practical advice solutions so they may have a better balance between parenthood and their jobs.

Trustee Network

The Trustee Network is here to bring together Trustees, representatives on Parent Teacher Associations, Not for Profit Directors and School Governors from around the firm to share experiences, offer support and provide potential training. This is the firm’s first Citizenship Network, and it sits alongside the Be Yourself Networks.

We recognise that whether you’re a new Trustee or have been doing this for a while, there is always more you can learn and even more you can offer to others. At BDO, we pride ourselves on our people and the impact they can have. Through the Trustee Network, we want to encourage our colleagues to use their 5+5 Citizenship days and make an impact on their world and the people around them.

Our Race Action Plan

Our Race Action Plan details how we can increase ethnically diverse representation, particularly in a senior capacity, and drive sustainable, long-term change. Our Race Action Plan uses the Business in the Community’s Race at Work Charter as its framework and sets out our 5 commitments.

Leadership Support - We will support our Race Action Plan from the top.
Capture Data - We will measure and report on our data and progress.
Zero Tolerance - We will have zero tolerance to racial harassment and bullying.
Equal Responsibility - We will take equal responsibility for equal opportunities.
Helping You Succeed - We will help you succeed.

Our Voices