Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to holding several EDI Matters sessions a year for the NHS finance community in the Midlands. Find out more on upcoming online events under this EDI Matters series.

The Midlands Finance Academy is building up a collection of EDI blogs from finance colleagues on a range of topics important to the progression of equality, diversity and inclusion, both inside and outside of the workplace.

The Return to Work Programme supports NHS finance staff who have returned from parental leave within the last 12 months, aiding them in a successful transition back to work and supporting them in the challenges of parenthood.

This programme supports female NHS finance professionals in band 8a and above who wish to further their professional development with a view to career progression into more senior roles.

The NHS Finance Insights placement scheme offers paid, 12-month work experience in NHS finance roles across England for individuals aged 18 and above, who are from lower socio-economic backgrounds and do not plan to attend university. The program aims to attract diverse local talent, helping candidates develop skills and gain experience to confidently pursue NHS apprenticeships or entry-level finance roles.

The Inclusion and Diversity Ambassadors come together nationally and regionally to develop EDI action-plans and implement ‘positive action’ initiatives for their local organisations. We are aiming to have at least two ambassadors per organisation in the Midlands to ensure an inclusive workplace. The Midlands runs its Equality, Diversity and Inclusion working group through the Inclusion and Diversity Ambassadors.

The NHS Finance Sponsorship Programme provides career support to high potential finance staff who are from under-represented groups at more senior levels within NHS Finance.

This programme is specifically aimed at finance staff from ‘protected groups’ that are under-represented at director level in the NHS. This can include (but is not limited to) those from diverse ethnic backgrounds, female staff, LGBTQIA+ staff, and those living with a disability. Removing obstacles for Band 7-8B finance professionals, ensuring everyone can achieve their potential, regardless of background.

One NHS Finance, the Skills Development Network and the HFMA have collaborated to produce the latest report analysing the national finance function. This is the overall regional position compared to the national picture for the census data collected in the autumn of 2024.