NEWS
Diversity and inclusion
Campaigns |Published: Mar 25, 2026
Mental health is shaped not only by individual experiences but also by workplace culture. While the sector continues to evolve, creating inclusive working environments remains an important priority. When people feel that they belong within their workplace, they are more likely to feel confident raising concerns, contributing ideas and seeking support when they need it. For organisations working to strengthen safety and resilience, diversity and inclusion play an important role in supporting mental health.
Why inclusion matters for wellbeing
Workplace inclusion refers to creating an environment where individuals from different backgrounds, experiences and identities feel respected and able to contribute fully. Research consistently shows that inclusive workplaces are linked to improved wellbeing, higher engagement and stronger organisational performance.
When people feel excluded, overlooked or unable to express their perspectives, it can contribute to stress, reduced confidence and feelings of isolation. In operational sectors such as ports, these pressures can affect both wellbeing and safety if individuals feel unable to speak up about concerns. Inclusive workplaces help create psychological safety and the knowledge that individuals can speak up and raise issues without fear of embarrassment or negative consequences.
Gender diversity
Ports have historically had a predominantly male workforce, particularly in operational and technical roles. While progress has been made in improving gender representation across the sector, women remain underrepresented in many areas of port operations and leadership. Encouraging gender diversity is not only a matter of equality; it also contributes to healthier workplace cultures. Inclusive environments where different perspectives are welcomed can help challenge outdated stereotypes, reduce stigma and encourage more open conversations about wellbeing.
At the same time, men working in traditionally masculine environments may feel pressure to appear resilient and self-reliant, which can make it more difficult to talk about mental health. Supporting both men and women to speak openly about wellbeing helps create workplaces where health concerns are recognised early and addressed appropriately.
Ethnic diversity and representation
Ethnic diversity within the workforce also plays an important role in shaping workplace culture and wellbeing. Individuals from minority ethnic backgrounds may face additional pressures, including barriers to progression, limited representation in leadership roles, or concerns about how their experiences are understood within the organisation. These challenges can contribute to stress or disengagement if employees feel their perspectives are not recognised or valued. Creating inclusive environments where diverse voices are represented across all organisational levels helps strengthen trust and ensures that decision-making reflects the experiences of the wider workforce. Particularly in ports, where operations often rely on close teamwork and communication, ensuring that all employees feel respected and included can have a direct impact on morale and collaboration.
Inclusion across all organisational levels
Building inclusive workplaces requires commitment across all levels of an organisation. Policies and initiatives can help set expectations, but everyday behaviours and leadership practices often have the greatest influence on workplace culture. Managers play a key role in shaping whether employees feel comfortable raising concerns or discussing challenges related to wellbeing. Demonstrating respect, listening to different perspectives and responding constructively to feedback can help build trust within teams. Representation in leadership is also important. When employees see people from diverse backgrounds in senior roles, it can reinforce the message that opportunities are open to everyone and that different experiences are valued.
Everything we do depends on teamwork and communication. I believe that the inclusion of everybody in the team is crucial to the safety and efficiency of the operation.
Alan Dixon, Head of Health, Safety, Environment and Sustainability, PD Ports
Supporting mental health through inclusive cultures
Improving diversity and inclusion is closely linked to improving mental wellbeing across the workforce. When employees feel valued and respected, they are more likely to engage with wellbeing initiatives, seek support when needed and contribute positively to their teams. In port environments, supporting inclusion often begins with everyday practices: creating opportunities for employees to share feedback, ensuring wellbeing support is visible and accessible, and encouraging open conversations about mental health during team briefings and safety discussions. When organisations treat inclusion as part of their operational culture rather than a standalone initiative, it strengthens trust, engagement and resilience across the workforce.
PD Ports work on inclusive mental health support
PD Ports has been exploring these themes through a series of employee listening sessions, a Women’s PPE initiative, and Men’s mental health groups, designed to give workers space to share experiences, concerns and ideas. In the next article, Umayya Rahman, PSS Health, Safety and Environment Technician Apprentice, and Alan Dixon, Head of Health, Safety, Environment and Sustainability at PD Ports discuss inclusivity initiatives and its impacts to mental wellbeing with.