'Staff live these values every day': Judges' praise as Thirteen scoops EDI award

“It is clear that the team at Thirteen don’t just promote equality, diversity, and inclusion; the staff live these values every day.”

Judges’ comments don’t come much better than this!

They came as we were crowned winners in the Best Commitment to EDI and Workplace Welfare category at the Direct Works Awards 2025.

It’s recognition for all the work we’re doing to champion equality, diversity and inclusion and create a fair and supportive workplace, including:

• prevention of sexual harassment training
• neurodiversity awareness training
• equity and respect workshops
• themed activities linked to health awareness days (e.g. promoting men’s health checks and menopause training)
• our ‘Women in Construction’ campaign to address underrepresentation in trades roles
• carrying out full property inspections in the homes of blind or visually impaired customers to identify any damp and mould or health and safety risks

The judges went on to say: “Creating equal opportunities for all, a more inclusive place to work, and an environment where differences are not just accepted but celebrated, where colleagues have greater self-awareness and confidence, enabling them to manage staff with diverse needs, effectively and empathetically, are all at the heart of Thirteen's ‘Better Together’ culture.

"This category was new for this year and highly contested, but Thirteen was outstanding to the judges because it is clearly a brighter, more inclusive place thanks to these initiatives.

“They’re building a truly inclusive and supportive environment where all colleagues and customers are valued and given the support they need to thrive – congratulations!”

Well done to all involved!

Watch our award bid video: