Compiled by Business in the Community (BITC), The Times Top 50 Employers for Gender Equality list celebrates organisations that are taking meaningful action to advance gender equality in the workplace.
This recognition is due, in part, to the supportive environment that Vodafone manages to create as a workplace. The company’s long-standing UK Gender Equality Network plays a leading role in this, bringing together employees who are passionate about championing diversity.
Over the past year, the network has hosted various events that provide a safe space for colleagues to share experiences, discuss challenges, and hear from panels made up of both their peers and external guest speakers.
Beyond the network, Vodafone further supports its people through every stage of life – from navigating fertility journeys to managing menopause.
The company has trained some staff to be CPD-accredited MenoHealth First Aiders, for instance. It also launched a Fertility Support Hub in 2024, before becoming the first company in the telco industry to receive Fertility Friendly Accreditation.
Vodafone becomes first ‘Fertility Friendly’ employer in telco sector
The accreditation puts Vodafone UK in the company of Lloyd’s Banking Group, Selfridges & Co and other brands that have committed to supporting employees through their fertility journeys.
In addition, Vodafone has implemented various industry-leading policies in support of employees. For non-birthing parents and secondary carers, the company offers 16 weeks of fully paid parental leave.
Alongside this is the option to return for 80% of their hours, at 100% of their pay, benefits and holiday, for the first six months following family-related leave. After all, Vodafone UK recognises that, when all parents are supported – regardless of gender or caregiving role – the whole family benefits.
In support of domestic abuse survivors, the company offers a comprehensive package that includes up to 10 days of additional paid leave for medical appointments, legal proceedings or other urgent needs. There is also internal support available, such as flexible working arrangements.
In recognition of the broader societal role that mobile technology plays in protecting women, Vodafone is involved in external initiatives too, such as Bright Sky app, which provides discreet access to local support services, safety planning tools and more.
How Vodafone’s 80/20 policy is helping new parents
Vodafone UK allows new parents to return to work for 80% of their hours, at 100% of their pay, benefits and holiday, for the first six months following family-related leave. We spoke to two current employees to hear how this policy has impacted their lives.
Entry into The Times Top 50 took place prior to the completion of the VodafoneThree merger. While the recognition reflects Vodafone UK’s legacy in this space, it also signals the direction of the newly merged business – with VodafoneThree committed to carrying forward its most impactful policies.
Nicki Lyons, Chief Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Officer, said: “Being recognised once again in The Times Top 50 Employers for Gender Equality is a powerful reflection of the culture Vodafone UK has built over time.
“With VodafoneThree, we have a unique opportunity to combine the best of both businesses and shape a workplace where inclusion is embedded in every action and decision.”
Kieran Harding, Acting Chief Executive, Business in the Community, said: “It is imperative for employers to eradicate gender inequality in the workplace, not only because it is the right thing to do, but it will also unlock economic benefits for businesses and ‘lift up’ the UK.
“While there is still much work to be done, the progress being made to ensure equal pay, career progression and offering enhanced flexible working and family friendly policies shows that we’re on the right path.”
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