Today the world celebrates International Women’s Day (IWD), the achievements of women and campaign for gender equality.
The past year has been a tough one fighting COVID-19, which has bought its own unique challenges for women both in the UK and around the world. Women have found themselves at the frontline of the pandemic. Sadly, 2,833 working women (including 110 nurses) died of COVID in the UK between March and December 2020. Let’s take this moment to thank women for their bravery, their kindness and their contribution in fighting this crisis, and in keeping our healthcare systems and essential services running.
The theme for IWD 2021 is "Choose to Challenge", recognising the need to call out gender bias and inequality. Women are often the unacknowledged heroes in society, no matter what challenges they face. This past year women such as Jacinda Ardern, Michelle Obama and Professor Devi Shridar have shown real leadership when it has been most needed, but countless other women, not in the public eye, have achieved everyday successes by simply getting on with whatever they face.
At British Safety Council, we have worked hard to achieve a more gender balanced and inclusive workforce, with 53% of our current staff being female. We know we cannot be complacent and remain committed to maintaining a gender balanced and inclusive workforce.
Mike Robinson, Chief Executive at British Safety Council, commented:
“Let’s celebrate and give praise today for often-unsung women heroes. Recognition can take many forms be it a simple thank you for all the home-schooling women have provided during the pandemic, a thoughtful text message or credit for their unswerving support or national or global leadership in managing through adversity.”
“Let us all provide the inspiration and opportunities for women to achieve their full potential. After all, we are strongest when we support each other.”