We are committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) being at the heart of everything we do and deliver for service users and their relatives, as well as staff.
In order to demonstrate leadership commitment, Equality Diversity and Inclusion priorities are embedded within the NHS Constitution, NHS Contract, and national programmes such as the NHS Equality Delivery System. Workplace Disability Equality Standard (WDES) and Workplace Race Equality Standard (WRES). Within our Trust, our Equality Diversity and Inclusion Strategy, Policy and priorities are aligned to these areas.
We recognise the importance of valuing and supporting our staff as well as partnership working with Trade Unions, our local integrated care system (ICS) and local user led organisations. By working together and alignment to regional and national programmes, standards and models of good practice we can make a difference.
We have a number of staff networks which are well established as follows:
- BAME network- bamenetwork.enh-tr@nhs.net
- Disabled members network- disabilitynetwork.enh-tr@nhs.net
- LGBTQ+ network- lgbtqplusnetwork.enh-tr@nhs.net
- Shielding peer support network – anna.kanengoni@nhs.net
- Staff carers network- staffcarersnetwork.enh-tr@nhs.net
- Women’s network- womensnetwork.enh-tr@nhs.net
Each of the networks are engaged with staff across all levels of the organisation so have a real voice in the organisation, and they continue to grow. The networks are open to all staff who are members of the diverse groups or who would like to join as allies. The networks provide access to leadership and development opportunities and try to create an environment were staff feel safe to speak up.
Moreover, we provide webinars, stalls and awareness events for Black History Month, International Women’s Day, Pride and so much more. If you would like to join the networks please email the network email provided above.
We also run an Inclusion Ambassador scheme to address diversity at senior levels at the Trust. Our trained Inclusion Ambassador support our commitment that all job applications, both internal and external, are not disadvantaged in any throughout the recruitment and selection process.
Additionally, to highlight our commitment to EDI we have launched are 1st formal reciprocal mentoring programme together with the national team from NHS Leadership Academy. The programme will provide tools to create transformational change and enable a culture of diversity, equality and inclusion, where the power of difference is valued. It is a two-way process (power is shared) designed for both mentor and mentee to share their lived experiences in order to help challenge inequality and develop more inclusive cultures within our organisation.
We believe this programme will contribute at all levels across the Trust in understanding what we do well and what we can improve through the challenges faced for those who fall under the nine protected characteristics of The Equality Act 2010.
For any further information and support regarding all things EDI please contact equalitydiversity.enh-tr@nhs.net.
