Tracy Bridgett, Head of Learning, Development and Diversity, UK Border Agency

In the face of significant budget reductions in the North East, Yorkshire and the Humber region (NEYH) of the UK Borders Agency (UKBA), the equality and diversity team led by Tracy Bridgett achieved commendable results, ultimately strengthening the impact of leadership in E&D throughout the region.

Tracy and her team demonstrated inclusive leadership by instigating a review of informal staff groups, ultimately streamlining activity without adversely impacting on regional commitment to E&D. Tracy’s inclusive and consensual methods involved consulting with myriad staff representatives, enabling her to measure impact as well as formulate alternative, more cost-effective mechanisms to promote E&D issues.

Tracy demonstrated great professionalism in reaching the most rational decision for the regional disbandment of the network if staff were unable to continue it in their personal time. Whilst this decision could have been perceived as negative, Tracy secured a range of measures to improve, rather than reduce, staff access to support and advice. Through careful negotiation, she secured champions at senior level to promote and represent diversity strands. The champions have subsequently promoted and driven forward diversity initiatives, demonstrating the organisation’s commitment to diversity more visibly.

Tracy’s passionate advocacy of E&D ensured high levels of activity continue despite reducing resources. Staff feel empowered to set up their own initiatives, with oversight and support from Tracy’s team. One example is the Break the Stigma group, supporting and advising staff on wellbeing and mental health issues. The group garners exceptional feedback and has run two large region-wide events.

Tracy has remained steadfast in her commitment to ensuring her team excels in service delivery to internal customers. Through ongoing collaboration with Home Office IT, the region has achieved the highly commendable result of currently having no members of staff within the region (who number 2,000) with outstanding IT particular requirements. This is the first time in several years that the region has had no staff on the Outstanding Particular Requirements list, and it is testament to Tracy’s perseverance and collaboration with an external team that this result has been achieved.