We're Supporting International Women's Day

At National Grid, this year’s theme – which encourages everyone to #EmbraceEquity – is something we strive to uphold every day.

In our latest Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Plan, we set out five core commitments including a pledge to maintain a workplace culture of equity and inclusion. Others commitments include:

• Attracting, retaining and developing a high performing, diverse workforce
• Increasing diverse representation in leadership roles 
• Fostering partnerships that support the growth and vitality of the diverse communities and customers we serve 
• Developing and sustaining relationships with diverse suppliers, vendors and service providers 

To mark International Women’s Day, we’re also celebrating some of the incredible women who work in electricity distribution. We hope they will inspire others to pursue their goals and to highlight the positive outcomes for everyone if we all #EmbraceEquity.

Rachel Campbell, Team Manager, Nottingham

What career challenges have you faced as a woman?

Before joining National Grid, I spent 25 years in the prison service. Unfortunately, I have experienced career challenges because of my gender. Not only was it virtually impossible to progress up the career ladder, but there were times when I had to justify being in the position I was in, particularly when I had a young family and was attempting to juggle family and work life. Thankfully, there have been positive changes, meaning that there are not only more women in management positions, but that staff are being placed in suitable positions, not because their face fits, but because they have the ability to do the job.

What advice would you give to other women in the industry?

Believe that there is nothing you cannot achieve if you put your mind to it and believe in yourself. We should also do our bit to promote this industry to family and friends and to challenge lingering preconceptions that some opportunities, like the craftsperson apprenticeships, are male roles. This needs to change.

Why is equity important to you?

We all deserve to be judged on our ability and not our gender, while acknowledging we are all different and all have something to give.

Sammy Hallsworth, Planner, Gloucester

What career challenges have you faced as a woman?

Being a woman in a male-dominated environment is daunting and can often be tricky when there is a difference of opinions. Outside of work, I play football so I face a very male-dominated environment most days. I find you need to be more assertive as a women in order to be heard. The women that work around me are strong characters and we do stick together!

What advice would you give to other women in the industry?

Work hard, don’t be afraid to speak your mind and back yourself. There is no harm in being wrong and learning but when you are right, you need to make sure you are heard.

Why is equity important to you?

Equity is important because, as women, we are capable, knowledgeable and deserve that to be recognised. Giving women the tools to succeed and backing that ability will benefit everyone.