Vision
To be the UK’s most inclusive business
Mission
We create an inclusive environment and celebrate diversity with our Partners, Customers and the communities we serve.
We’re at our best when we feel welcomed and free to be ourselves.
Our business is our business, and our differentiated culture drives our Purpose with Belonging and Inclusion at the heart of who we are as a Partnership.
Purpose
Happier people
To be the most inclusive business for our Partners
Happier business
To be the most inclusive business for our customers
Happier world
To be the most inclusive business for the communities we serve
Why belonging & inclusion are essential
Inclusion in the Partnership isn't just about having a diverse mix of Partners in our teams. It's about creating an environment where every Partner feels valued, respected, and included – regardless of their background, identity, or differences.
It's about fostering a culture where every Partner has equal opportunities to contribute, grow, and succeed.
Fosters creativity and innovation
Imagine a Partnership where every voice is heard, and every perspective valued - that's the benefit of inclusion. When diverse minds come together, we spark creativity, innovation, and a variety of solutions.
Partner engagement
When Partners feel a sense of belonging and psychological safety, they'll be more committed and engaged. It's like having a big, supportive family at work – meaning Partners are in it for the long haul.
Attracts top talent
By embracing diversity, we're casting a wider net for talent. It's not just about hiring the best – it's about finding the best fit for our teams. And diversity brings a wealth of skills, experiences, and fresh perspectives.
Enhancing decision-making
Diverse teams make better decisions. When we've got a mix of backgrounds and viewpoints, we're less likely to fall into groupthink. This means smarter choices and better outcomes for the Partnership.
Meeting our customers’ needs
Our customers are diverse, so our teams should be too. An inclusive Partnership understands that diversity isn't just a checkbox – it's good business. By reflecting the diversity of our customer base, we're better equipped to meet our customers’ needs and keep them coming back.
Trust
Inclusion isn't just about what happens inside our Partnership; it's about how we show up in the world. When we prioritise inclusion, we're not just building a better Partnership – we’re building trust with our customers and our community.
Our strategic pillars
Improving customer representation, celebration and ranges
Robust policies and standards
Building diverse teams
Creating an inclusive working environment
Creating culturally competent leaders and people managers
Our nine networks
Ability
We champion ability and disability in everybody so we can be ourselves and feel included.
Care Experienced
Connecting Partners who identify as care experienced, their carers and allies.
Carers
Supporting and building awareness and understanding of the needs of Partners who are carers.
Faith & belief
Educating, celebrating and increasing awareness of all faiths and beliefs.
Gender Equality (GEN)
Championing equal opportunities for all Partners, regardless of gender.
LinkAGES
Cultivating awareness, building understanding, and promoting involvement around age diversity and inclusion.
Pride in the Partnership (PiPs)
Providing support and safe spaces for LGBTQ+ Partners and allies.
UNITY
Providing representation for all ethnically-diverse Partners, enabling a meaningful Partner experience, and promoting equity and inclusion.
Working parents
Supporting working parents at every stage of the parenting journey and influencing Partnership policy for working parents.
We're delighted to have been accredited by 55/Redefined as the UK's largest Age-Inclusive employer in 2024, reinforcing our commitment to embracing the many benefits of over-50's talent in our business.
The John Lewis Partnership actively addresses diversity and inclusion in the workplace as part of our wider D&I plan, which is in support of our ambition to become Britain's most inclusive business. We aim to celebrate diversity and create an environment where our Partners feel welcome to be themselves, and where we connect with the diverse customers and communities we serve.Age is something we all have in common, and we are delighted to Partner with 55/Redefined to ensure we continue to attract and retain our over 50’s workforce, as well as multi-generational customers.