Diversity and Inclusion Award
On Friday, 27th June 2025, we at The Sussex Sign Company proudly accepted the Diversity and Inclusion Award at the Sussex Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. This night was a true celebration of local businesses and the hard work we all put into making our community better. For us, this award is about more than just a shiny trophy; it represents our commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive workplace over the past thirty years.
We truly believe that diversity and inclusion is the key to success. A team brought together from different backgrounds not only makes better decisions but also sparks innovation. Varied perspectives lead to creative solutions and ideas that might not emerge in more homogenous settings. We make it a point to offer flexible working arrangements, ensure equal opportunities for everyone’s career advancement, and foster a culture where respect is at the forefront. These aren’t just policies for us; they are a way of life, and they underpin everything we do.
The Sussex Business Community
Receiving this award from our fellow business leaders from the Sussex business community made the moment even more meaningful. It’s inspiring to earn recognition from peers who understand the challenges we face together in promoting diversity and inclusion within our workplaces. We feel encouraged that our actions have had a positive impact and that others can see the difference they can make by championing inclusivity.
Reflecting on this achievement, our Managing Director Norman Mayhew expressed that the award is a significant milestone for our team. He shared, “This award is more than just a title; it reinforces our belief that doing the right thing is not only ethically sound but also good for business.” Norman hopes that our journey will inspire other small and medium-sized enterprises in Sussex to embrace diversity and inclusion in their own strategies.
The benefits of diversity and inclusion
Many people think that diversity and inclusion initiatives are simply boxes to tick or reactions to external pressures. However, we see it differently. We believe that truly embracing diversity means fostering a workplace where everyone feels valued, and confident enough to share their ideas. The feedback we’ve received from our employees clearly indicates they feel a sense of belonging. This, we believe, is a crucial factor in our success. When our team members feel respected, it raises morale and boosts productivity. A happy workforce, after all, is often a successful one.
During the awards ceremony, we were thrilled to see the support from our peers. Many colleagues from different businesses in the region congratulated us for our work, highlighting how a diverse workforce not only mirrors our local community but also fuels creativity and innovation. This reinforces our belief that diversity isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for fostering a vibrant and dynamic workplace.
It’s a journey not a destination
While we have made considerable strides, we know there is always room for improvement. Awards like this serve as reminders of how much progress we’ve made, but also of the ongoing journey towards creating a truly inclusive environment. We hope that our recognition can encourage other businesses to adopt similar values. The world of business is evolving, and many companies are starting to think of sustainability and social governance as integral to their success.
Looking ahead, we remain optimistic. We think that by championing diversity and inclusion, we can inspire other SMEs to take steps toward the same values. Our hope is that our achievements serve as a catalyst for broader recognition and growth within our sector.
In wrapping up, winning the Diversity and Inclusion Award is a proud achievement for us and a testament to the belief that a diverse workplace is not just an asset but a necessity for long-term success. When all employees feel they belong, the entire organisation flourishes.
As we move forward, it will be exciting to see how many other businesses take note of our journey and consider incorporating similar practices. Right now, we celebrate our achievement, knowing it signifies that the business landscape is gradually shifting toward a future that values inclusion and diversity. Here’s to more successes and to a strong and inclusive Sussex Business Community!
