September Review: Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Over 50 members and guests gathered in the Harrogate Suite at The DoubleTree by Hilton Majestic Hotel for September’s Harrogate District Chamber of Commerce meeting, which explored Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in the workplace to mark the start of National Inclusion Week.
Following a lively period of open networking over tea and coffee, Chamber President Phill Holdsworth welcomed attendees before handing over to Sarah Darbyshire of HR Solutions Yorkshire who introduced the evening. Sarah highlighted how building inclusive workplaces opens up wider talent pools and brings fresh perspectives to organisations across the district.
EDI Legal Framework with Raworths
Sally Togher and Catherine Pugh from Raworths provided a legal overview of the Equality Act 2010 and its nine protected characteristics. They outlined the primary forms of discrimination, direct, indirect, harassment, victimisation and associated discrimination, alongside upcoming legal shifts under the Employment Rights Act.
They highlighted key changes ahead, including employer liability for third-party harassment, the reduction of qualifying service for constructive dismissal from two years to six months by January 2027, and the removal of the statutory compensation cap. Catherine shared practical risk-prevention steps, emphasising standardised recruitment, clear grievance procedures, manager training and active staff engagement through internal committees to protect culture and avoid tribunal claims.
Practical Adjustments with Disability Action Yorkshire
Poppy Woodcock and Georgia Baxter-Craik from Disability Action Yorkshire delivered a joint presentation on embedding inclusion practically in the workplace. They explained that 16.8 million people in the UK live with a disability (1 in 4 people), with only 5.1 million working-age disabled people currently in employment. Reminding attendees that many disabilities are non-visible, the presentation demystified reasonable adjustments, demonstrating that small, low-cost changes, such as flexible working hours, noise-cancelling headphones, or screen adjustments, effectively level the playing field.
Employers were encouraged to maintain open, strength-based conversations with staff, utilise the government-funded Access to Work scheme, and consider physical or policy access audits to turn inclusion insights into direct action. Disability Action Yorkshire can help with this.
Culture and Values with Berwins
Catherine Prosser-Carr from Berwins shared an authentic perspective on how workplace culture shapes daily employee experiences. Drawing on her background in health, social care, risk and compliance, she stressed that inclusion comes down to three core principles: belonging, trust and contribution.
She noted that company values must move beyond statements plastered on office walls and directly inform daily management decisions. Because true workplace culture is defined by what employees experience every day, leaders must continuously listen to feedback, acknowledge individual needs and design roles around what people need to flourish.
Lived Experience with Councillor Josie Caven
Harrogate Town Councillor Josie Caven shared a moving account of her personal journey as one of the few deaf councillors in the country. Recalling an early job where a deaf colleague was denied a role simply due to a missing flashing alert light, she urged employers to focus on removing structural barriers rather than questioning personal capability.
She explained how communication support, specifically a lip speaker, transformed her own working life by eliminating anxiety and providing full access to information. Calling on local firms to review their practices, she advised businesses to ask one fundamental question: "What do you need to do your best work?"
President's Closing Reflection
Closing the speaker presentations, Phill Holdsworth reflected on the vital role of empathy in business leadership. He encouraged managers and business owners across the district to step into their employees' shoes, listen actively, and build supportive environments where team members can thrive.
Member News and Announcements
Harrogate Brigantes Rotary Appeal
Charlotte Gale of Charlotte Gale Photography highlighted her range of corporate Christmas cards and Harrogate calendars, which can be fully personalised with company branding.
She also updated members on the Nepal disaster appeal managed by Harrogate Brigantes Rotary. Having raised nearly £20,000 towards emergency relief and school rebuilding following catastrophic flooding, the team is making a final push for local business support to hit their target.
Ake and Humphris
Paul Auty of independent wine merchant Ake and Humphris highlighted their collaborative approach to wine retail, explaining that their team is focused on helping customers discover wines they love rather than acting as strict gatekeepers.
ASE Computer Services
Louise Terzza spoke on behalf of ASE Computer Services to promote CyberShield Show 2026. Taking place on Tuesday 13th October 2026 at the Pavilions of Harrogate, this free cyber security briefing features insights from Microsoft, Sophos and Check Point, providing practical guidance on modern cyber threats facing local businesses.
Harrogate Theatre
Natalie Rawel from Harrogate Theatre shared updates regarding upcoming community programming and seasonal productions, while highlighting festive gifting ideas for local businesses, including gift vouchers and Harrogate Theatre Gin.
Supporting Older People
Kate Rogata from Supporting Older People called for local business volunteers to assist with monthly transport for older residents attending social events at The Crown Hotel on the second Tuesday of each month. The charity is also recruiting a new trustee, specifically seeking individuals with a background in HR or law.
Resurrected Bites
Jenny Harris announced the upcoming Charity Ball on Saturday 3rd October for Resurrected Bites, inviting Chamber members to attend and support their ongoing community grocery and café initiatives across the district.
Harrogate Skills4Living
Julia Moor introduced the work of Harrogate Skills 4 Living, highlighting their local café and Chocolate Factory, which offer delicious Yorkshire produce and bespoke chocolate hampers suitable for corporate gifting.
Jackson Fire and Security
Andrew Storie introduced Jackson Fire and Security, announcing their recent contract wins with Grantley Hall and Cedar Court Hotel. He emphasised that the business provides comprehensive fire and security services tailored for both small local businesses and domestic properties.
Artus Digital & Harrogate Chamber
Zach Greaves from Artus Digital introduced “Step Out” a new monthly joint Netwalking event organised alongside the Chamber. The one-hour NetWalk will take place on the second Friday of every month, launching on Friday 9th October at 9am from the bottom of Valley Gardens to offer local professionals a relaxed morning networking walk.
Next Chamber Meeting
Spams and Scams – How AI is Reshaping Trust and Identity
Monday 12th October 2026
5.30pm to 8pm, Rudding Park
Members and first-time visitors welcome
Reserve your place online via Eventbrite
