National Inclusion Week 2023 (25-29 September)
Each day DWF explored a different way in which colleagues are using their voices to shape workplace culture, the impacts they have had in creating an inclusive environment and how everyone can contribute.
Colleague stories
Understanding the challenges real people face and the ways in which they overcome them provides a truly authentic and powerful way to build awareness of D&I within the workplace. At DWF we encourage colleagues to share their stories via blogs. This week three members of our Family Support Groups shared moving blogs about their journeys to parenthood covering experiences of fertility, adoption and miscarriage.
Safe spaces
Safe space discussions provide a respectful, supportive, and non-judgemental space where individuals can connect, share experiences, ask questions and give advice. DWF promoted the regular safe space discussions that take place internally including the Divergent Connection Meet Ups which takes place virtually once a month for neurodivergent colleagues and allies.
D&I networks
DWF are incredibly proud of the work done by our Global D&I networks, i.e. developing new groups such as the Returning Parents Group and our Race and Ethnicity Network encouraging allyship through their 'How to talk about race' webinar. For National Inclusion Week we showcased the ways colleagues can take an active role within the networks and how this can help them build their networks and skills.
Colleague feedback
DWF is passionate about colleague feedback and over the last year has seen great examples of this informing our approach to D&I. For example, from a piece of feedback on terminology, our LGBTQ+ Network undertook a review with network members and produced a terminology communication guide. DWF also used listening session to gather feedback from members of the Carers Group which was used to create the 2023 Carers Group Action and communications plan. DWF took this opportunity to remind colleagues of the ways they can regularly submit their feedback.
Colleague actions
DWF empowers colleagues to influence change and put ideas into action, and we are proud of our their contributions, e.g. Race and Ethnicity Network members creating additional Ramadan support for colleagues and our Menopause Group creating a virtual global panel event for World Menopause Day 2023 event to explore the impact of Nutrition, Exercise and Complementary Therapy on menopause symptoms.
DWF want to inspire colleagues to put their ideas into practices. Through these National Inclusion Week promotions DWF hopes to inspire even more D&I collaborations with colleagues, clients and our communities.