These staff-led groups provide a space to share experiences, support one another and help identify changes that could make the Council a more inclusive place to work.

Three networks are meeting in September: the Disability Staff Group, Neurodiversity Staff Group and Ethnic Minority Staff Group.

The sessions are mainly for colleagues with lived experience of disability, neurodivergence or being from an ethnic minority background. Allies are also welcome.

Feedback from the staff networks workshop in June highlighted several areas colleagues would like the networks to explore further.

These include:

• awareness and understanding of disability, neurodiversity and ethnic minority experiences
• reasonable adjustments and support for managers
• how easy it is to find policies, guidance and support
• creating a workplace where colleagues feel comfortable speaking about their experiences and asking for support
• the role of leaders and managers in supporting inclusion across the Council

Each group will also discuss what members want the network itself to focus on and agree priorities for the coming months.

You do not need to prepare anything beforehand, and there is no expectation to speak if you would prefer to listen.

All three sessions will take place on Teams.

• Disability Staff Group: Wednesday 16 September, 10am to 11am. Click meeting link here
• Neurodiversity Staff Group: Tuesday 22 September, 2.30pm to 3.30pm. Click meeting link here
• Ethnic Minority Staff Group: Wednesday 23 September, 1.30pm to 2.30pm. Click meeting link here

If you do not have regular access to a computer, contact Farah Farzana to discuss another way to take part.

If you would like to take part but cannot make the meeting, or have a question about any of the networks, please contact Farah Farzana.