The Premier League has recognised West Ham United’s ongoing dedication and commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) by presenting the Club with the highest level of award in this area.
The award was presented by the Premier League to the Club at London Stadium on Monday 2 October, with all men’s, women’s and Academy players and West Ham United staff in attendance for a memorable team photograph illustrating our diverse and vibrant workforce. With the UEFA Europa Conference League trophy, FA Youth Cup and U18 Premier League South trophy proudly on display, the day was a celebration of West Ham United’s huge success on and off the pitch.
It is the second time West Ham United has received the award, having first been presented with the Advanced level of the Premier League Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Standard (PLEDIS) in 2020, which is the top accolade that can be achieved by Premier League clubs.
Following a rigorous and in-depth assessment by an expert panel this summer, focusing on evidence of EDI across all areas of the Club, the Premier League concluded that the Hammers have continued to make fantastic progress in this area and deserve to maintain the Advanced level.
The Premier League Report stated: “The Panel strongly commend the leadership shown by the Club and its senior leaders in driving forward equality, diversity and inclusion, both internally and externally.
“The Club’s well-communicated, zero tolerance stance on all forms of abuse and discrimination is undoubtedly achieving demonstrable impact and lasting change. The Panel highly commend the systematic approach being taken to embed EDI, for example ensuring that there is a clear connection between coaching, mentoring and partnerships.”
West Ham United Vice-Chair Karren Brady said: “It is fantastic for the Club and all of our incredible staff, that three years on from being one of the first Clubs to be awarded the PLEDIS for our work in equality, diversity and inclusion, we’ve once again received the Premier League’s highest possible accolade.
“It was an immense source of pride when we first received the award, but in many ways today’s honour is an even greater achievement, as it shows that we didn’t stand still, but instead we worked even harder to keep improving and challenging ourselves.
“Throughout our long and illustrious history in East London, there is so much for us to be proud of as a Club, and our continued success as an equity leader only serves to drive us to even greater heights.”
Premier League Head of Diversity and Inclusion Strategy Kuljit Randhawa said: “We are delighted to have awarded West Ham United the Advanced Level Health Check of the Premier League Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Standard. West Ham have made excellent progress in creating safe and inclusive environments for their staff, players and fans.
“During the club’s recent assessment, the PLEDIS panel of independent experts commended their authentic leadership on this topic and the systematic approach being taken to embed EDI, for example ensuring that there is a clear connection between coaching, mentoring and partnerships.
“The Panel highly commended the club’s approach to EDI Learning and Development and the work that has taken place to highlight and challenge gender-based violence.
“The club’s work to enhance South Asian pathways into the Academy, including parental engagement, is also worthy of praise. We look forward to continuing to support West Ham to enhance their work in this area.”
West Ham’s all-time leading Premier League goalscorer Michail Antonio added: “Equality, diversity and inclusion is so important to the Club and everyone who is part of the West Ham family.
“Together we are really involved in the local community, and we are all proud of that, and proud we have received this special recognition.
“As players, we know the responsibility we have, and how important it is to be seen by and feel a part of the Club’s community. It’s a privilege for me to be part of a Premier League Club that welcomes everyone and works hard to open up opportunities to improve the lives of people in Newham and across the capital.”
