Extern has become the first charity in Northern Ireland to be awarded the Bronze Diversity Mark by awarding body Diversity Mark NI for its commitment to Diversity and Inclusion.  

 The award recognises Extern’s commitment to creating working environments that are fair and positive for all genders. Diversity Mark applications are assessed by an independent panel of experts. The panel were particularly impressed with Extern’s clear ambitions and staff engagement resulting in a Diversity strategy to affect change, growth, and development.   

Each year, Extern supports over 23,000 children, families and individuals across the island of Ireland, who are living with issues related to homelessness, poor mental health, problematic drug and alcohol use, family breakdown, and skills and employability, among others. 

Jonathan Carroll, Extern’s Director of People and Organisational Development, said: “To be named Northern Ireland’s first charity to be given such an award is a significant achievement, and one of which we are justifiably very proud. We are absolutely delighted to have achieved this award, which recognises the importance which Extern places on ensuring we have a workplace that is as diverse and inclusive as possible. 

“This fantastic award is a solid foundation upon which we can continue to build and develop to ensure we are a leading example of diversity and inclusion in the workplace across Northern Ireland’s charitable sector.” 

Christine White, Head of Business at Diversity Mark NI, said: “We were delighted to have presented Extern with the Bronze Diversity Mark at such a critical time for Diversity and Inclusion. Our assessment panel commended Extern for its strong commitment to building inclusive environments to benefit all staff.   

“This organisation does extremely worthwhile work and we look forward to working with them as they develop new diversity initiatives and share their learnings and areas of expertise with our community. Congratulations to everyone at Extern on this achievement.”