Announcing the Winners of the VERCIDA Employer Excellence Awards 2026

We are delighted to reveal the winners of the VERCIDA Employer Excellence Awards 2026, recognising organisations that have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to creating inclusive, supportive, and diverse cultures.

Unlike traditional awards, these accolades are determined through data-driven insights from jobseekers' interactions on VERCIDA’s platform. This ensures that the awards genuinely reflect public recognition of employers’ efforts in fostering equitable workplace cultures. By analysing user engagement, job ad performance, and content readership, these awards celebrate organisations leading the way in workplace inclusivity and sustainability. Congratulations to all our winners!

Congratulations South Western Railway 

Recognised for their commitment to fostering an age-inclusive environment, ensuring employees of all generations receive equal access to career development and support. Jobseekers appreciated the company's age-friendly initiatives and authentic stories from their Apprenticeship Programme.

Well done Sage 

Recognised for the high level of jobseekers’ engagement with their content, the company shares authentic employee experiences and insights, allowing candidates to engage with their inclusive culture and its continuous evolving journey.‍

A round of applause to Jacobs

Celebrated for their Early Careers initiatives which provide structured pathways for growth through internships, apprenticeships, and their Graduate Development Programme (GDP). The programs offer participants hands-on experience on complex, real-world projects.

Congratulations West Yorkshire Combined Authority

Celebrated for actively advocating for disability inclusion through a number of initiatives, which resulted in high levels of engagement from candidates with disabilities. 

Well done Jacobs

Recognised for attracting diverse candidates shown in high engagement levels, application rate, reflecting the company’s appeal as an employer committed to inclusion, belonging and equal opportunity.

A big round of applause to The Football Association

Commended for fostering a multi-faith workplace, celebrating all faiths and developing policies that support religious observance in a diverse workforce. Jobseekers showed their appreciation of the employer’s proactive approach and authentic stories.

Congratulations dunnhumby

Celebrated by jobseekers for efforts to create an inclusive culture, particularly through their Gender Equality Network which is working on several fronts to support gender equality, collaborating with other networks across the organisation to promote intersectionality.

Well done to Department for Work and Pensions

Acknowledged for ensuring that all jobseekers' communications through emails and newsletters are transparent, accessible, and designed to be inclusive.

A big round of applause to Sainsbury's

Setting an example through their proactive approach in creating job ads that use clear, unbiased language and ensuring transparency of the recruitment process and the salary.

Congratulations VodafoneThree

Recognised for cultivating a culture of acceptance, where LGBTQIA+ employees feel empowered and valued. Offering resources and visible support for their community through their Pride Network Group.

Well done Department for Work and Pensions

Recognised for their efforts to foster a neurodiverse-friendly work environment by providing tailored support and ensuring workplace adjustments for neurodivergent employees.

A big round of applause to Amentum

Quickly becoming a champion of workplace inclusivity, teamwork and respect, the company was recognised for their inclusion initiatives that have effectively engaged jobseekers.

Congratulations to Bromford

Recognised for implementing flexible working policies and robust support systems for working parents and caregivers, allowing them to thrive professionally while managing their responsibilities.

Well done Sanctuary

Recognised for their commitment to diversity and inclusion, and providing meaningful career opportunities for ethnically diverse employees. Their Race Equality Network fosters awareness and understanding, and celebrates cultural diversity. 

A huge round of applause to Great Western Railway

Recognised for effectively using social media as a platform to drive conversations on diversity and inclusion, amplifying important voices within the organisation.

Congratulations Hachette UK

Through measurable commitment to eco-friendly practices and social impact, Hachette UK has become a magnet for candidates who prioritise ethical values and environmental leadership.

Well done to Ministry of Defence

Acknowledged for access to training opportunities especially within underrepresented communities and their leadership programmes that empower employees to upskill, grow, and advance their careers.

A big round of applause to Thales

Commended for their ex-armed forces and veteran initiatives, offering training, mentorship, and pathways into civilian careers.

Congratulations to Bromford

Recognised for pioneering flexible work arrangements and ensuring employees can maintain a sustainable work-life balance.

Well done TransPennine Express

Celebrated for prioritising health and wellbeing initiatives through holistic approaches that relate to emotional, psychological, social and spiritual wellness. 

Congratulations to all our winners! These organisations are setting the benchmark for inclusion, ensuring workplaces make everyone feel valued and supported. 

Click the link below to see the full shortlist and get inspired by those setting the standard for inclusive excellence!

👉 View the shortlist here