Accelerate to Zero Diversity and Inclusion Award: Changeworks

Changeworks is a Scottish social enterprise on a mission to decarbonise 180,000 homes by 2030. Their work sits at the intersection of climate action and social justice, and their approach to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) reflects that same dual commitment.

At the Accelerate to Zero Awards 2025, they were recognised with the Diversity and Inclusion Award for embedding inclusive practice across both their organisation and the communities they serve.

Building an inclusive organisation from the inside out

Changeworks began their formal EDI journey in 2023, seeking accreditation through the National Centre for Diversity's FREDIE framework: Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Engagement. They established a cross-organisational EDI Steering Group and an Oversight Board chaired by the Deputy Chief Executive, with an EDI Champion appointed at trustee level. This wasn't a tick-box exercise. It was a structured, 18-month programme of culture change.

Practical changes included the launch of a Pride Network and Women's Network, a Pronouns Policy, inclusive recruitment practices aligned with their Level 2 Disability Confident Employer Status, and a mandatory EDI learning pathway covering allyship, microaggressions, privilege and pronouns.

The effort paid off. In May 2025, Changeworks achieved Silver Accreditation from Investors in Diversity, a nationally recognised mark of genuine progress.

Most importantly, they have seen genuine change in the organisation: “The impact on our people and organisation is tangible, with Changeworks reflecting a more inclusive and supportive environment throughout an employee or volunteer’s journey with us.” – Changeworks

Inclusive Services for the Communities That Need Them Most

With 34% of Scottish households living in fuel poverty, Changeworks understands that a just transition cannot leave marginalised communities behind. Their Energy Saving for All project, delivered in partnership with CEMVO (Council for Ethnic Minority Voluntary Organisations) and funded by British Gas Energy Trust, provides tailored energy advice and advocacy to minoritised ethnic communities across Scotland.

Staff on the project received anti-racism training from CEMVO, including interpreter best practices and intercultural awareness. CEMVO also supported the engagement of increasing numbers of volunteers from Black and Minoritised Ethnic communities, many of whom have gone on to be successful in applying for paid positions with Changeworks, a tangible example of inclusion creating opportunity.

Recognition and what comes next

The judges were impressed by how strategic Changeworks‘ approach to diversity and inclusion is. They are tackling DEI issues at a systems level and embedding their principles both in the way they work as an organisation as well as through their projects and programmes.

Changeworks says, “We’re delighted to have won the BE-ST award, which shows that Changeworks is recognised as a sector leader in diversity and inclusion. A just transition to net zero can only succeed if it’s fair and inclusive. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and this award reflects the commitment across our organisation to creating an equitable, supportive, and purposeful workplace.”

Looking ahead, Changeworks is developing a three-year EDI strategy with the aim of achieving Gold accreditation from Investors in Diversity by 2028 while becoming a recognised EDI leader across the sector.