The achievement marks a significant milestone in the Trust’s commitment to providing colleagues with fair pay, secure hours and stability now and in the future – a journey that began in 2020 when the charity first partnered with the Living Wage Foundation. 

In a bid to better reflect and represent the communities it serves, Derbyshire Wildlife Trust launched a transformative Early Talent Programme, to create pathways into careers in conservation and the wider environmental sector. 

The Trust moved away from unpaid traineeships, which were only accessible to those who could afford to work without pay and was proud to be an accredited real Living Wage employer through the Living Wage Foundation.  

Since then, the Trust has deepened its commitment to staff wellbeing by becoming accredited as a Living Hours and Living Pensions employer, offering stability in both income and future financial security. 

Chief Executive Dr Jo Smith and Director of Values and Resilience Alex Rogers represented the Trust at the Living Wage Foundation’s Parliamentary Reception, where MPs, employers and leaders came together to celebrate the powerful, positive impact of the real Living Wage on individuals and communities.  

The event featured keynote speeches from Jonathan Reynolds MP, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, and Katherine Chapman, Director of the Living Wage Foundation. 

Speaking about being recognised as a triple accreditation holder, Jo Smith said:  

“Today, it has been exciting and humbling to hear how other employers are doing great things to transform workplaces and lives. We’re proud to be recognised for doing the right thing and to be amongst some of the most inspiring employers in the country.  

“At Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, we believe a fair and inclusive workplace is essential to tackling the climate and nature crises. Our commitment to equity helps us to build a stronger, more diverse team that can deliver meaningful, lasting change for people and the planet.” 

Alex Rogers adds: “We’ve seen first-hand the difference that fair pay and accessible opportunities can make. Hearing from participants about how the real Living Wage has changed their lives has been incredibly powerful. But the work doesn’t stop here. There’s more to be done to break down barriers and connect new audiences with green jobs. We’ll continue growing our Early Talent Programme, and we encourage others in the sector to do the same, so that everyone, regardless of background, has the opportunity to help shape a wilder, more sustainable future.” 

The Trust is currently delivering its ambitious Wilder2030 strategy, combining large-scale nature recovery with equity, skills development and community-led action. For more information visit www.derbyshirewildlifetrust.org.uk.