Our Mission

Creating a more inclusive, equitable and representative social investment sector in the UK

The Diversity Forum exists to challenge inequity and embed meaningful change in the UK social investment sector. We are a collaborative, sector-wide initiative working to ensure that equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) are central to how social investment is shaped, delivered, and governed.

Since our inception in 2017, the Forum has helped spark important conversations and actions across the sector. We've seen progress: more organisations have made public commitments to diversity, new funds and leadership programmes have emerged, and the importance of inclusive decision-making is now more widely recognised.

But there is still much more to do.

Inequalities persist—particularly in leadership, funding flows, and power dynamics—and recent social and political shifts risk stalling or reversing progress. The Diversity Forum is here to hold the sector accountable, amplify underrepresented voices, and support the development of more inclusive practices and structures.

Through research, convening, peer networks, and practical support, we work with social investors, funders, and stakeholders to:

• Improve representation in leadership and governance

• Foster inclusive workplace cultures and investment practices

• Share learning and co-design solutions with communities

• Build long-term, sustainable change rooted in justice and equity

We remain committed to working in partnership, guided by a deep belief that diversity—across all characteristics and lived experiences—makes our sector more effective, impactful, and resilient.

If you would like to be involved in the Diversity Forum, Contact Us or Sign Up to receive updates on our work.