It is with deep disappointment that we announce BWC’s decision to decline an award from the 2025 GSK IMPACT Awards. Following the concerning news that GSK, a British multinational pharmaceutical company, has chosen to halt its diversity and inclusion initiatives, BWC cannot, in good conscience, accept this award as it is sponsored by a company whose principles now conflict with our own.
This decision was not taken lightly. The awards, which involve a rigorous assessment process, are designed to recognise the exceptional work of small and medium sized charities working to improve health and wellbeing in communities across the UK. Of over 700 applicants, 10 winners and five runners up were selected: BWC was selected as one of the five runners up.
GSK has cited the United States as its top market and claims it must now abide by executive orders issued by US President Donald Trump that undermine critical protections for women’s rights and social mobility programmes. This has led to the suspension of women’s mentoring groups and the UK’s social mobility programme, which assists students from underprivileged socioeconomic backgrounds in obtaining employment.
As an organisation deeply committed to the values of equality, diversity, inclusion, and belonging, and as a charity operated by and for self-identifying women, we feel compelled to stand in solidarity with individuals from protected characteristic groups and withdraw our acceptance of this award.
BWC remains dedicated to empowering women and promoting social justice within our communities.
Lisa Dando
Director
You can read our press release here.