THE UK's second largest train operator has been recognised by a leading equality organisation for its work to address the gender imbalance in the rail industry.

Northern Power Women, a leading equality campaign group, has shortlisted Northern as the ‘Large Organisation of the Year’ at its upcoming 2023 awards.

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It is the second year running that Northern has been shortlisted for the award.

Announcing the shortlist yesterday, they praised Northern for its commitment to developing an inclusive culture in the workplace by demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to recruitment, development and retention of talent.

The Northern Power Women Awards take place on Monday, March 20 in Manchester.

In the ‘Large Organisation’ category, Northern has been shortlisted alongside: Fujitsu, Kellogg’s, Learning Curve Group, Deloitte, DHL Supply Chain, The Co-Operative Bank, Nugent, IKEA, Siemens, Bank of America and CGI.

Tricia Williams, chief operating officer at Northern, said: “We’re thrilled to have been shortlisted for a Northern Power Women Award.

“We feel very strongly that equality, diversity and inclusion is not limited to the work of our HR team - it’s a journey everyone at Northern needs to take together. As such, we work closely with colleagues from across the business, at all grades, to ensure progress made is visible to all."