Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors are taken into account by organisations to measure their impact on the world and ensure that their operations are sustainable and responsible. It incorporates:
- Environmental: How an organisation interacts with and impacts its surrounding environment with an emphasis on sustainability.
- Social: The proactive management of social impacts of organisations both in communities and on employees.
- Governance: Transparency and evidence of effective governance which underpins a well run charity.
Figure 1: What does ESG Mean for the Charity Sector? Source: RSM (2022)
Why is ESG important for FNF?
The FNF 5-year strategy identifies creating a financial, social, cultural and environmentally sustainable future as a key strategic priority. As an organisation which is expanding to influence global health and well-being, FNF is committed to demonstrating impact which contributes to the following WHO Sustainable Development Goals:
We recognise that our greatest influence is achieved through the growth and development of our nursing and midwifery membership and alumni community. Equipping the FNF community with the capabilities to respond to a rapidly changing and complex health and care landscape, by increasing their core confidence to lead, is central to our purpose.
Through our leadership development provision and in partnership with health and social care providers, policy makers and our professional regulators, FNF can play a part in working together for a healthier world.
Fig: FNF sphere of influence
- Nursing and Midwifery Leadership: FNF’s education provision empowers nurses and midwives to become effective leaders who can positively impact health and wellbeing, advance the equality agenda, and create sustainable healthcare services. By investing in our education programmes, we can build the capacity of healthcare professionals to drive positive change for both people and the planet.
- Influence on our sector and suppliers: As a leader in the third sector, FNF is committed to promoting equitable and sustainable practices that benefit our partners, suppliers, and ultimately, the communities we serve. By setting high standards, and insisting on evidence of our partners’ commitment to the same, we can role model best practices that foster positive social and environmental impact.
- Working in partnership: FNF recognises that advancing the equality and environmental agendas requires collaboration across the health and care sector and beyond. We are proud to work in partnership with the NHS, independent healthcare providers, and regulators to drive thought leadership and innovative solutions that translate into tangible actions. Together, we can create a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
FNF ESG Promise and Commitments
Our promise
Nurture well-being across our organisation and FNF community, and actively create opportunities for people to thrive in their working life.
Our commitments
- High investment in the development of our team to ensure cultural safety.
- Continue to prioritise extensive development opportunities for nurses and midwives from the Global Majority.
- Ensure our delivery methods are responding to the diverse learning preferences and needs of our community.
Our promise
Reduce the environmental impact of operations, to promote a sustainable future.
Our commitments
- Intentional changes to FNFs internal processes and practices to promote a sustainable future. Including reducing the environmental impact of our events.
- Setting standards for direct suppliers and partners to evidence their commitment to sustainability.
Our promise
Equip nurses and midwives to forge their unique leadership path and blaze a trail for better healthcare.
Our commitments
- Seek funding to provide climate scholars and programmes.
- Convene a Global Climate Subject Expert Group.
- Implement FNF impact framework to evidence the change.
ESG Achievements to celebrate
Environmental
- In partnership with Nuffield Health, FNF have implemented its first Green Healthcare Leadership programme resulting in 18 clinical change projects saving 6,000 tonnes of carbon.
“Over the course of the pilot, our unit saved over 670 kg of Co2, the equivalent of driving from London to Paris! It has also meant increased independence for the patients, savings in workforce planning and clinical resources, meaning financial savings too.”
Social
- 56% of participants on our leadership programmes are from the Global Majority and 80% have received at least one promotion following completion of the programme.
“The FNF Windrush Leadership Programme that I did gave me the skills and the confidence to move forward in my career. I have had two promotions since completing the programme, which would not have happened so quickly otherwise.”
Governance
- FNF is certified as a ‘Living Wage’ employer and accredited as ‘A Great Place to Work’. Our people describe a strong commitment to our purpose and a supportive and inclusive culture.
“I love our purpose, the diversity and breadth of the work and the lovely team! It is a real privilege to work here. I am also grateful for our flexible working approach.”
FNF ESG Action Plan and reporting
You can download a pdf version of this statement at the bottom of this page.
FNF Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Statement
