Worcestershire County Cricket Club has been ranked first for inclusion and for diversity across all First-Class Counties following the release of the 2025 EDI Gamewide Census results.
The census, led by the ECB and now in its fourth year, gathers feedback from all permanent employees, players and board members across all 18 First-Class counties. The latest findings represent a strong set of results for the Club and reflect its continued progress year on year.
In the 2025 survey, 95 percent of staff said they feel welcome, included and that they belong at the Club, the highest score recorded across the professional game. The Club also saw its diversity grade improve from D in 2024 to C in 2025, alongside a 16 percent increase in women working at the organisation. Women now account for 44 percent of respondents. Staff retention has also reached its highest level to date.
Sarah Johns, Head of HR at Worcestershire County Cricket Club, described the results as one of her proudest achievements at the Club. She said: “I’m immensely proud to be a part of this wonderful team and all that we’ve achieved together. What stands out most to me is how strongly people feel about belonging here.
“To see 95 percent of our staff say they feel welcome and valued is incredibly meaningful. These results reflect four years of consistent work, listening and follow-up, not just a single initiative.
“The census itself is important, but what really matters is what we do with the feedback. We place huge emphasis on the actions that follow. We are delighted with the progress we have made, but we are very clear that this is ongoing work and never want to stand still.”
Sarah leads the Club’s People Team alongside Cheryl Instan-Smith, County Safeguarding and EDI Lead, and Sophie Marchbank, HR and Business Apprentice. Together, they support staff, players, volunteers and the wider Club community, with a focus on wellbeing, equality, diversity and inclusion across all areas of the organisation.
In recent years, this work has continued to evolve, expanding beyond core staff to include stewards and playing staff. The Club has also increased its focus on player involvement, including closer collaboration with our Women’s Rapids team. This has included the introduction of professional coaching staff, equal access to kit and more closely aligned opportunities across the Club.
The results give the Club confidence that it is moving in the right direction, while also reinforcing the importance of continuing to listen, learn and improve for everyone who is part of Worcestershire County Cricket Club.
