City ambulance service achieves gold for being an inclusive organisation

The North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) has been awarded Gold in the 2026 Talent, Inclusion, Diversity and Equity benchmarking framework, recognising its commitment to creating an inclusive workplace and ensuring ambulance services are accessible for all communities.

The Trust was also ranked sixth overall nationally, fifth in the public sector and fourth in the health sector among organisations taking part in the assessment.

The independent benchmark examines how organisations promote equality, diversity and inclusion through leadership, culture, workforce practices and the services they provide.

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.

“The benchmark shows we're making progress, but it also highlights where we need to do more.”