Office for National Statistics

When employee feedback, diversity audits and industry benchmarks highlighted significant gaps in the Office for National Statistics’ (ONS) representation and inclusion – particularly for ethnic minority staff, who were shown to have disproportionate employee outcomes – it responded by developing an Interactive Experience Initiative (IIE), described by the PMAs judges as “a transformative EDI initiative that combines innovation, accountability and measurable impact”.

Developed as part of a wider ethnicity programme, the gamified ‘virtual escape room’ incorporates real-life experiences of ONS colleagues and those from other organisations, facilitating a deeper understanding of challenges faced by ethnic minority staff, while encouraging behavioural changes that foster inclusivity. Partnering with Vivida, a Black-led organisation specialising in digital learning provisions, the ONS developed an accessible digital platform combining storytelling with technology that enables virtual focus groups, resource access and real-time feedback. 

To spread the word within the organisation, the ONS implemented communication plans, including targeted campaigns, facilitated sessions and workshops. Regular feedback mechanisms such as surveys, focus groups and town halls ensured continuous improvement and stakeholder engagement.

Overall, since implementation, turnover for ethnic minority colleagues reduced by 7.2 percentage points, with further improvements in voluntary turnover rates for male and female ethnic minority colleagues. Furthermore, ethnic minority representation within all grades has increased, now at 10.5 per cent organisation wide, above target, and there’s now a 10 per cent 12-month rolling promotion rate for both ethnic minority and white employees, meaning ethnic minority staff have equitable opportunities for progression.

“What makes this initiative exemplary is its shift from a one-off learning intervention to a sustained, evolving tool, with version 2 launched in 2024 following user feedback and accessibility enhancements,” the PMAs judges said, noting that the initiative was also recognised with a highly commended award at the 2024 CIPD Wales Awards and a showcase at the Government People Group.

“This initiative is evidence based, culturally intelligent and deeply reflective, offering practical tools for day-to-day inclusion while fostering a broader cultural shift. By rooting EDI in lived experience and organisational strategy, ONS has created a model for sustainable, system-wide inclusion – proving that meaningful change is possible when inclusion is not only taught but experienced.”