Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
ABHI's Commitment
Our approach to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion is a key part of ABHI’s culture. We are committed to ensuring that every voice, regardless of background or identity, is actively sought out, heard and respected.
We will strive, constantly, to create an industry where everybody feels able to bring their whole self to work.
We will promote understanding and awareness of how important it is to embrace inclusivity of all in our industry and the patients we serve. Including fully diverse perspectives drives creativity, innovation and our ability to transform healthcare.
We will steadfastly challenge behaviours, wherever they occur, that detract from the integrity of our sector.
As an association, we are actively working to lead our sector to improve diversity and inclusiveness.
In September 2017 we hosted the inaugural Diversity and Inclusion event. Feedback from the evening was unanimously positive as over 70 delegates heard from a range of inspirational speakers on their leadership experiences and approaches to improving diversity in their respective fields.
ABHI then created two diversity seats on the Board of Directors, to co-opt individuals with skills that would enhance the capabilities and diversity of the non-executive Directors.
Six months later, and to coincide with International Women's Day, we hosted the second Diversity and Inclusion event. As part of the evening, we were delighted to launch a best practice document that gives five very different perspectives on how organisations are engaging with the gender diversity agenda, both within and outside the HealthTech industry.
At our July 2018 diversity event, we asked attendees to share their "lightbulb moments". Our hope is that this collection of experiences gives readers the tools to push the conversation beyond those who are already committed and active around this issue.
We have continued to run these events annually and at our 2023 event we presented the results of the industry's first gender equality survey. Our intention was to capture data that could inform a report that would act as a benchmark for where our industry is currently at, with a view to progress being tracked over time. Key stats, as well as the full report, can be accessed here. Our 2024 report will also be available soon.
ABHI will, with our Members, continue to work on leading the industry on this important issue. Our vision is to broaden diversity and to champion HealthTech as a career choice that is built on equality. This must be implicit right across our sector.
“Enjoyable, inspiring and above all, energising. It was an honour to share the stage with such an illustrious array of speakers and I commend the work ABHI are doing to improve diversity and inclusiveness across the HealthTech sector. The message from the evening was clear; with the right level of support, all women, at any career stage, can become the leader they aspire to be."
Baroness Morgan of Cotes
ABHI are also a proud member of the 30% Club, which campaigns for greater representation of women at senior leadership and board level, with a target of a minimum of 30%.