The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has appointed Baroness Crawley as the new figurehead of the Women in Safety programme, an international initiative delivered in partnership with L’Oréal and Nike, led by Karen J. Hewitt of LEADERLIKE LIMITED. Now in its fourth year, the programme supports women in occupational safety and health (OSH) roles, where leadership representation remains disproportionately low.
The Women in Safety programme provides leadership training, mentorship, and certification to women working in OSH across the globe. With 92 graduates from 22 countries, it has built a thriving international network of professionals committed to advancing safety leadership and gender equity.
Baroness Crawley’s appointment signals a new chapter for the initiative. A long-time advocate for equality and public service, she brings credibility and momentum to RoSPA’s mission to elevate women into influential safety roles.
Despite advancements in workplace safety, women remain underrepresented in senior OSH roles. RoSPA’s programme tackles this issue by equipping participants with the skills, confidence, and the networks needed to lead. The partnership with L’Oréal and Nike highlights the strategic importance of inclusive leadership in global safety culture.
The 2025 programme includes a one-day online leadership course, two follow-up ‘power hour’ sessions, and a structured mentorship scheme. Graduates receive certification from the Institute of Leadership and a complimentary one-year membership.
Baroness Crawley said: “It is a real honour to lead the Women In Safety programme, and a true privilege to see the inspiring women whose talent and drive are making workplaces safer. Thanks to the commitment of our mentors, and the invaluable support of our partners L’Oreal and Nike, RoSPA aims to help everyone who progresses through the Women In Safety programme to develop their skills and confidence, and we look forward to them joining our network of graduates saving lives and preventing serious injuries across the world.”
RoSPA’s Women in Safety programme continues to deliver measurable impact, helping women advance into leadership roles, fostering global collaboration, and strengthening the safety profession.
