Head of EDI Review

Item: Head of EDI at The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Rating: 5
Author: Anonymous

at The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Level 4/5 Apprenticeship

Human Resources

Newcastle upon Tyne

Review Submitted: April 2026

Overall Rating

5 /5

The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!

5/5 - Overview of Role

5/5 - Skills Development

5/5 - Structure and Support

Overview of Role

Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

5/5

The Head of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) provides strategic leadership, assurance, and transformation across the Trust, ensuring that equality, equity and inclusion are embedded within organisational culture, workforce practice, and service delivery. The role plays a critical part in supporting the Trust’s legal duties, NHS constitutional values, and wider system priorities, while enabling the organisation to deliver high-quality, safe, and person-centred care for diverse communities.
Operating at a senior strategic level, the role bridges corporate governance, operational delivery, workforce experience, and population health, positioning EDI as a driver of organisational effectiveness rather than a standalone compliance function.

To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

5/5

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

5/5

The Strategic Leadership Apprenticeship has significantly strengthened my capability to operate as a system-level, strategic leader, shifting my practice from delivery-focused leadership to one that shapes long-term organisational direction, assurance, and culture. A key skill developed through the apprenticeship is leading through influence rather than authority, including:
Operating effectively across complex systems (Trust, ICS, and external partners)
Navigating competing priorities and stakeholder interests
Building alignment and shared accountability for outcomes that sit across organisational boundaries
This has strengthened my ability to position EDI and wellbeing as collective system responsibilities, not solely owned by one team or function.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?

5/5

Well organised

How much support do you receive from your employer?

5/5

As an employer, Newcastle Hospitals is committed to creating a safe, supportive and inclusive working environment. Staff can expect to be treated with dignity and respect, supported to stay healthy at work, and encouraged to speak up about their needs. The Trust provides access to a range of support, including occupational health, staff psychology, wellbeing resources, health and safety support, flexible working where possible, and clear pathways for additional help. Managers and teams work together to provide timely, coordinated support, with a focus on prevention, early intervention and helping staff to thrive at work.

How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

5/5

Throughout my apprenticeship, I received regular and structured support from the training provider. This included scheduled teaching sessions, access to learning materials, and guidance to help meet the requirements of the apprenticeship standard. I had regular reviews to monitor progress, discuss development needs and receive constructive feedback. The training provider was approachable and responsive, offering support with assignments, assessments and wellbeing where needed, and working collaboratively with my employer to ensure I was supported both academically and practically.

How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

5/5

The leadership programme has provided me with a wider context and deeper knowledge, helping me to better understand how my role fits within the organisation as a whole. It has broadened my perspective beyond my immediate area of work, strengthening my understanding of strategic priorities, system‑wide challenges and effective leadership practices. This has enabled me to think more confidently, make more informed decisions, and apply learning in a way that supports both my team and the wider organisation.

Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

5/5

Teams are encouraged to organise their own extracurricular activities, helping to build strong working relationships and a positive team culture. Staff also have access to a social club, on‑site gym facilities, and a range of staff networks, providing opportunities to connect with others, stay active, and feel supported and included across the organisation.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to a friend?

Yes

Why?

I would recommend working at the Trust because it is a supportive employer that genuinely values its people. There is a clear commitment to staff wellbeing, learning and development, and creating an inclusive culture where individuals feel listened to and respected. The Trust offers a wide range of support, opportunities to grow and progress, and encourages teams to work collaboratively while recognising the importance of work–life balance. Overall, it is an organisation where people are supported to do their best work and feel proud of the difference they make.

What tips or advice would you give to others applying to The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust?

Read the job description and person specification carefully.
Use clear, relevant examples that show how you meet the criteria.
Keep it concise and easy to read.
Show your motivation and align with the Trust’s values.
Check spelling and submit on time.

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