Bord Gáis Energy has become the first utility in Ireland to receive Investors in Diversity Gold Accreditation from the Irish Centre for Diversity.

The accreditation comes as the company marks 50 years serving customers across Ireland and places it among just 43 organisations nationwide to hold the Gold standard.

The recognition acknowledges Bord Gáis Energy’s work to embed diversity, equity and inclusion across its workplace culture, leadership and everyday business practices.

Over the past year, the company has introduced a number of initiatives aimed at removing barriers and supporting employees throughout their careers and personal lives. These include the relaunch of its Apprenticeship Programme, with a target of having women fill 30% of apprentice positions by 2030, as well as a Hormone Health Programme, enhanced family-friendly policies and an updated WorkLife Balance Framework.

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The company also has Mental Health First Aiders and participates in the Elephant in the Room movement, encouraging conversations around issues that can often go unspoken in the workplace.

Employee-led networks are also central to the company’s approach. Its six networks cover LGBTQ+ inclusion, multiculturalism, women, carers, neurodiversity and working parents, with more than 500 employees involved in the groups.

Bord Gáis Energy said the networks help represent underrepresented voices while providing insight into workplace policies and decision-making.

The company also uses its Our Voice employee engagement survey to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement. It said the survey has consistently placed the organisation among the top-performing companies in the energy and utilities sector.

Bord Gáis Energy has also continued its participation in Business in the Community Ireland’s Elevate Inclusive Workplace Pledge, which focuses on accountability, measuring progress and sharing best practice in diversity and inclusion.

The company's work has received further recognition this year, including the Diversity, Equality & Inclusion Initiative Award at the Business & Finance ESG Awards and a Silver award in the Diversity, Equality and Inclusion category at the eir Business Chambers Ireland Awards.

The Investors in Diversity Gold Accreditation comes as Bord Gáis Energy looks towards its next 50 years in Ireland, with the company describing inclusion as an ongoing commitment rather than a completed goal.