Introducing our Staff Networks: creating an equal place to work
At NHFT we celebrate the diversity of our workforce - and we are committed to being a safe, compassionate and more equal place for our colleagues to work.
Our four Staff Networks have been developed with 'including everyone' firmly in mind. They are staff-led communities which support our organisation to deliver real change, be more inclusive, tackle discrimination and recognise diversity.
Together they provide a safe space and a source of support for our colleagues, raise awareness of issues in our organisation and act as a bridge between staff and the Trust's leadership. Here we introduce our four Staff Networks and meet some of the people behind the fantastic work they do every day.
ENABLE Network
- For colleagues who are disabled, live with a long-term health condition (physical or mental health) or are neurodiverse
- Enables staff to thrive at work, regardless of disability, condition or neurodivergence
- Offers peer support groups for neurodivergence, mental health and cancer
- Hosts regular support meetings for members to raise issues and ask for advice
- Contributes to NHFT's people policy reviews and guidance on flexible working, reasonable adjustments and recruitment
- Supports with health passports, access to work applications and special equipment
"Our membership has grown by more than 50% over the past four years and in response we've expanded the support we offer, including by establishing peer support groups.
Having a disability, long-term condition or neurodivergence should not be a disadvantage at work and we are here to support our staff to thrive."
Jayne Evans, Chair, ENABLE Network
LGBTQ+ Network
- For staff who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, those questioning their identity and anyone who is part of a marginalised or underrepresented group
- Also welcomes those with a positive interest in diversity and inclusion at NHFT, and allies who stand with LGBTQ+ colleagues
- Advocates for the LGBTQ+ community to create a respectful and supportive working environment for all
- Provides LGBTQ+ equality training for all staff
"This network is deeply personal to me. It ensures LGBTQ+ colleagues can bring their whole selves to work, feel safe and visible and shapes better care through lived experience.
It shows inclusion is fundamental to who we are and how we care."
Jei McCallum, Chair, LGBTQ+ Network
REACH (Race, Ethnicity and Cultural Heritage) Network
- For colleagues from ethnic and cultural minority (ECM) backgrounds, including colleagues from Gypsy Roma Traveller and all white minority communities
- Provides a safe and supportive space for ECM colleagues and an independent voice for ECM staff, service users, carers and communities
- Influences meaningful organisational change
- Supports development and delivery of the Trust's Together Against Racism initiative
- Marks significant cultural events
- Offers education on health issues which disproportionately affect ECM communities
"We are committed to ensuring that every colleague feels valued, heard and treated equitably within the workplace.
We are proud to advocate for race equality, to actively challenge racially discriminatory practices and behaviours, and to work alongside our Equality Diversity and Inclusion team to help create a workplace where everyone can thrive."
Mohammed Koli, Co-Chair, REACH Network
Working Carers Network
- For colleagues balancing work with unpaid caring responsibilities for a family member, friend or partner who needs help because of their age, illness or disability
- Offers a safe, supportive space to improve wellbeing and reduce stress and isolation
- Helps carers to feel seen, understood and valued by the Trust
- Raises awareness of the challenge carers face in the workplace, influencing positive changes in policy, flexibility and workplace culture
- Provides a Carers Passport to support them to balance their caring needs with work
"The Working Carers Staff Network is important to me because I have been a working carer myself. I am passionate about making sure carers feel supported and recognised at work.
Sometimes just listening to people can make a difference and if I can help to signpost them to support or help in any way that is a good day."
Nicola Best, Co-Chair, Working Carers Network