Looking back at Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) progress over the past year, it’s clear that while there were meaningful steps forward, significant work remains to be done. 

For those of us dedicated to DEI, 2024 was not without its challenges. Backlash against DEI efforts grew louder in some quarters, fuelled by political and cultural debates that sought to undermine the importance of equity and inclusion. Unfortunately, this resistance hasn’t disappeared in 2025. Early signs indicate that these challenges are continuing, with attempts to sideline DEI initiatives in some spaces. 

Yet, despite these distractions, the work must go on. DEI is not a passing trend but a necessary and ongoing journey toward justice and equity in the workplace. 

At Diversifying Group, our mission has always been clear: to create a truly inclusive and equitable world of work. We’ve been heartened by the resilience of organisations that remain steadfast in their commitment to DEI, even in the face of adversity. Encouragingly, the UK government is also stepping up, introducing mandatory ethnicity and disability pay gap reporting and strengthening equal pay protections. These initiatives are set to raise the bar on workplace equity, ensuring that DEI remains on the agenda for businesses across the UK. 

The Importance of Measuring Success 

As we continue into 2025, it’s vital to reassess our DEI strategies and measure both our successes and failures. Without clear metrics, even the most well-intentioned initiatives risk becoming mere box-ticking exercises. To drive real, lasting change, organisations must move beyond surface-level commitments and focus on actionable, measurable outcomes. 

From my experience advising organisations on DEI strategy and recruitment, I have seen firsthand how thoughtful measurement can transform efforts into meaningful cultural shifts. When companies prioritise data, they signal that DEI is a core value rather than an afterthought. This not only drives accountability but also fosters trust and engagement among employees and candidates alike. 

The Role of Data in Driving Change 

Data is essential for understanding where organisations stand and how they can improve. Quantitative metrics, such as employee demographics, pay equity, and hiring rates, provide a baseline for tracking progress. With the UK government’s proposed requirements for mandatory ethnicity and disability pay gap reporting, organisations will need to adapt quickly to ensure compliance. 

But it’s not just about hiring. Data on promotion and retention rates at all organisational levels reveals whether underrepresented employees are advancing or leaving due to a lack of support and belonging. Measuring the success of internal leadership programs designed to uplift employees from marginalised communities is also critical. Without this data, it’s impossible to gauge whether these initiatives are driving the desired outcomes. 

The Power of Listening 

Numbers alone can’t tell the full story. Qualitative feedback, gathered through surveys, focus groups, and exit interviews, offers insight into the lived experiences of employees – particularly those from marginalised groups. Are they feeling included, valued, and supported? Do they see opportunities for growth and advancement? 

Listening to these voices allows organisations to connect with what truly matters: the human experience. For DEI to succeed, people need to feel the impact, not just see it on paper. 

Staying Focused Amid Challenges 

The work of DEI is not easy, and resistance will likely remain a feature of the landscape. But as someone who lives and breathes this work every day, I am inspired by the commitment of organisations that continue to place DEI at the top of their agendas. 

2025 presents an opportunity to double down on what matters most: creating workplaces where everyone can thrive, regardless of their background. Together, through data-driven strategies, intentional actions, and a steadfast focus on equity, we can ensure that DEI efforts not only endure but flourish. 

Let’s keep pushing forward. The work we do today will shape the inclusive workplaces of tomorrow. 

Written by Cynthia V Davis CBE, CEO and Founder of Diversifying Group.