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AN ambulance trust has been nationally recognised for its work to create a more inclusive workplace.
The North East Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (NEAS) was awarded gold in the 2026 TIDE (Talent, Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity) benchmarking framework, which ranks organisations based on progress in equality, diversity, and inclusion.
NEAS chief executive Kevin Scollay said: "We're incredibly proud to have achieved Gold, but what matters most is what sits behind the award.
"This recognition reflects the work our colleagues are doing every day to create a workplace where people feel respected, valued, and able to be themselves, while also making sure our services meet the needs of the diverse communities we serve.
"For patients, equality and inclusion can mean being able to access information in the right format, having confidence that individual needs will be understood, or feeling that their voice is heard.
"For staff, it means having opportunities to succeed and feeling supported to bring their whole selves to work."
The independent benchmark examines how organisations promote equality, diversity and inclusion through leadership, culture, workforce practices and the services they provide.
NEAS placed sixth overall nationwide, fifth in the public sector, and fourth in the health sector.
The gold award reflects improvements in supporting staff from all backgrounds and enhancing patient access to care.
Recent initiatives include better support for staff facing hate or harassment, improved workplace adjustments for disabled employees, and expanded community engagement to address underrepresentation.
Karen O’Brien, director of people at NEAS, said: "This award belongs to colleagues across NEAS who are helping to build a culture where inclusion matters and where everyone has a role to play in creating a fair and respectful workplace.
"What makes the TIDE assessment valuable is that it doesn't simply measure policies.
"It helps us understand whether we're creating meaningful change for people."
While the gold award marks an important milestone, NEAS said there is still more work to be done.
The trust will use the findings to shape its new Equality Plan for 2027–31, incorporating feedback from staff, patients, and North East communities.