Every organisation should want their staff to feel like they belong and can be their authentic self at work. Staff networks, where groups of employees with shared life experiences can meet to discuss these experiences, play an essential role in creating this inclusive working culture.
At IntoUniversity we pride ourselves on the work we continue to do to attract and recruit diverse talented people from all parts of society and we are aware that as the makeup of our staff team gets more and more wonderfully diverse we need to make sure that we put as much effort into ensuring that staff from all walks of life feel included in work.
In autumn 2022, we launched our first staff networks at IntoUniversity. They are:
The purpose of our staff networks is to celebrate diversity and identity at IntoUniversity, provide a welcoming space for discussion and improve the staff experience by providing community. Throughout the last academic year, each of our staff networks have met six times, to celebrate key events like LGBT+ History Month or Neurodivergent Week, host external speakers or even create resources to support each other in the workplace.
60 staff members have now signed up to a network of their choice. Three of these staff members shared their highlight of being a part of their staff network so far as well as the importance of the networks in promoting inclusivity.
“[Being a part of the staff network] has been such a supportive space and the Leads have done a fantastic job of creating an inclusive, safe space and sense of community. My favourite part has been meeting and chatting with people across the network.” – a member of the Disability Network
“It’s a safe space to share and celebrate with similar individuals across the network and a place for allies to learn about and understand the experiences of people identifying as LGTBQIA+.” – a member of the LGBTQIA+ and Allies Network
“Being part of the Staff Network this year has meant for me a chance to connect across the organisation, a chance to build a safe space for those that have similar experiences to my own and a chance to explore what it means to be a person of colour in a workplace and sector where I am a minority. It gives a space to explore and have discussions that there is not always the space for in other contexts. It is a chance to learn from others but the burden of it does not feel heavy but rather enlightening.” – a member of the Global Majority Collective Network
I strongly believe that intentionally carving out safe spaces where people of similar experiences can come together and listen and talk to each other – and build friendships and support each other – and realise a sense of belonging is core part of what IntoUniversity is about and I’m excited to see this be built upon in the years to come.
More information about Diversity and Inclusion at IntoUniversity
