Celebrating the power of staff networks

Last week, the Council celebrated National Staff Networks Day – an international day of celebration for the work of staff networks across the world. 

Colleagues from the organisation's LGBTQ+ Staff Network, Disability Colleague Network, Embrace Network, Women’s Network and Neurodiversity Network, came together to celebrate their achievements and showcase their work.

Over 500 Council colleagues are part of these networks, either as someone with lived experience or as an ally and supporter.  Networks help shape the Council's approach to be an inclusive organisation, where everyone can bring their whole self to work – a key driver behind its in-house BeYou campaign. 

Del Curtis, the Council’s Chief Executive and several other Directors, who act as a key sponsor for each of the networks, came along to the event. 

Alistair Jeffs, Director of Vivo Inhouse and chair of the Disability Colleague Network said: ‘This was a great opportunity to bring together colleagues with a common purpose and celebrate the fantastic contribution they make to the work of the Council.'

Over the last 12 months, the collective efforts of these networks have shared knowledge and understanding which has supported the development of policies and strategies for all employees. They've also taken part in fundraising, improving services for residents of the borough and inspired others to be themselves in work. Perhaps most importantly, the networks have brought together colleagues who have shared interests to build new relationships and connections across the Council.