Acorn Training founder Gareth Saldanha-Fallows shortlisted for EDI Initiative of the Year at the World Skills Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Heroes Awards 2022

(Friday, 28th January 2022) Acorn Training’s founder, Gareth Saldanha-Fallows, has been further recognised for his work championing diversity and inclusion by being shortlisted as a finalist at the World Skills UK Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Awards 2022.  These inspiring awards are hosted in partnership with Coca-Cola Europacific partners & the NCFE and are an opportunity to recognise outstanding commitment to promoting and supporting diverse and inclusive practices and celebrate those making a real difference.

Gareth is shortlisted within the EDI Initiative of the Year category for his recent recruitment drive to promote an inclusive work space for any potential applicants joining Acorn Training’s growing business by adopting a more values-based recruitment approach. The company has also openly declared Gareth’s sexuality on their website and amended job advert text to become more inclusive. This initiative has been met with positivity; attracting new LGBTQ+ candidates, creating increased openness within interviews and has translated through to the internal culture of the business whereby employees can discuss sexuality openly and freely.

This follows success in last year’s awards where Acorn Training were crowned winners of two of the five categories; Network of the Year and Role Model Award for Gareth. Acorn’s triumphs were supported by their positive contribution to the LGBTQ+ community including breaking down barriers through challenging stereotypes and misconceptions.

For more information on the awards and the other finalists, please visit: https://www.worldskillsuk.org/news/announcing-the-shortlist-for-our-edi-heroes-awards/

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Notes to editors

Acorn Training are a national training provider delivering apprenticeships, adult learning, employability programmes, justice services, skills & career development.