The Infection Prevention Society (IPS) has launched its first Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy, setting out a clear commitment to making inclusion a core part of everything the Society does.
The new strategy was developed collaboratively by the IPS EDI steering group, co-chaired by IPS Board Member Lorraine Williams and CEO Dr Alex Rhys. It marks an important milestone in the Society’s ongoing work to ensure every member feels valued, represented, and supported.
“EDI is not an abstract concept,” says Lorraine. “It directly influences how healthcare is experienced, how guidance is created and applied, and how safe, equitable care is delivered. By embedding EDI into how IPS operates, we aim to help members deliver infection prevention that is effective, fair, and responsive to every community we serve.”
The EDI Strategy focuses on six priority areas:
- Inclusive membership
- Accessible events and education
- Inclusive communication and language
- A culture of belonging
- Diverse leadership and governance
- Values-driven partnerships and influence
These priorities will help remove barriers, widen participation, and ensure lived experience is recognised and valued across IPS and beyond.
“Strengthening inclusion within IPS strengthens our ability to support our members and the communities you care for,” Lorraine adds. “This is a long-term commitment that will shape how we design learning, communicate, support member involvement, and use our collective voice to influence policy and practice.”
For members, the strategy means:
- More inclusive education and events
- Clearer, more accessible communications
- More opportunities to contribute and influence
- Greater focus on inequality and health outcomes
- A Society where everyone feels welcome and able to thrive
- A greater recognition of the diversity of profession, practice, and communities
The IPS EDI Strategy reinforces the Society’s mission of “Working Together to Prevent Infection” by ensuring equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of that work.
