We're pleased to start 2024 with a look back at 2023 as today we publish the Women In Defence UK Social Value Impact Report.
This report is a testament to our steadfast commitment to advancing gender equity within the UK's defence sector, and it illuminates the strides we've made in fostering diversity and inclusivity.
Our collaboration with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and the broader defence industry, particularly through the Women in Defence Charter, has been a cornerstone of our efforts. These partnerships have been crucial in creating a more inclusive and equitable environment in defence. Notably, our high-profile events and Challenge interviews, including a panel at the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI), have sparked important conversations on management, policies, careers, and inclusive working environments. The engagement and feedback from these events have been nothing short of inspiring, with around 700 attendees for the Challenge interviews and many more joining us virtually.
The Mentoring Programme remains close to my heart. It's been a transformative experience, providing support and career development opportunities for women in the defence sector. This programme, along with our Women in Defence Careers initiative, underscores our dedication to facilitating career progression and opening doors for women in this field.
I cannot stress enough the importance of the partnerships and sponsorships that have supported our initiatives. The backing from organisations like PA Consulting and Airbus has been instrumental in bringing our visions to life. (See the full list of our Partners).
A key aspect of our report is the Social Value Criteria, which encompass goals such as promoting diversity, career development, and supporting women in leadership roles. These criteria are not just boxes to tick; they represent our ongoing mission to create real change in the defence community.
In closing, the Women In Defence UK Social Value Impact Report 2023 is more than just a document; it's a narrative of our journey towards gender equity in the defence sector. It's about the impactful steps we've taken and the continued path we tread towards a more equitable and diverse defence community. As we share this report, we invite you to join us in this meaningful and necessary pursuit.
