At Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, we are proud to have active staff networks that support our diverse workforce. We recognise that staff networks are important because they provide a safe space for employees to have real, honest conversations on work-life experience, highlighting both areas for improvement and areas of success. They are essential to enhancing a culture of inclusivity, ensuring people feel able to bring their whole selves to work and contribute to improving life at work for underrepresented groups and individuals.
The DisAbility Staff Network launched in September 2019 following conversations with staff that identified colleagues would like a network that supports and raises awareness for individuals with hidden and visible disabilities.
The networks vision and purpose is:
We are inclusive. We promote equity. We empower ability.
This will be achieved through:
- Inspiration - leading by example and setting out a positive future
- Recognition for the individual and what they bring - developing a culture of inclusivity based on acceptance
- Proactive action - anticipating and responding to challenges focusing on activities that are impactful and Trust wide
- Engagement - collaborative decision making
The network has been busy developing actions to improve the work experience for staff with hidden and visible disabilities - details of which can be found in the Trusts Workforce Disability Equality Standard report.
The DisAbility Staff Network and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Team also launched the Sunflower Scheme at PHU in 2022. The Sunflower Scheme is a global initiative to support inclusive practices. You can find out more here.
For more information about the network please contact the Chair, Trevor Mose, email: disability.
Our Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender (LGBT+) Staff and Allies Network has been instrumental in; developing a Trans Support Policy for Staff, rolling out the NHS Rainbow Badge across the organisation and participating at Portsmouth Pride events.
The aim of the LGBT+ Staff and Allies Network is to provide a forum for staff to:
- Talk confidentially about their experiences in a safe environment.
- Identify and respond to matters that affect LGBT+ staff and patients.
- Assist the Trust in meeting its statutory obligations regarding its duty under the Equality Act 2010.
- Be a reference group to provide, help, support and advice to all members of staff at Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust.
- Influence policy making and monitor existing policies and procedures.
- Assist the Trust and develop key information, advice and support for transgender colleagues and patients.
To contact Matthew Ng and Tanya Ponsford, Co-Chairs of the LGBT+ Staff and Allies Network, please email: LGBT.network@porthosp.nhs.uk
At Portsmouth, we are proud to have a recognised Race Equality Network which is open to all black and minority ethnic staff and allies.
The aim of the network is to provide a forum for staff to:
- Talk confidentially about their work experiences in a safe environment.
- Receive support and information.
- Identify and respond to matters that affect black and minority ethnic staff.
- Contribute to improving the work experience of black and minority ethnic colleagues.
- Undertake personal and professional development.
- Work with the Trust to eliminate discrimination experienced by black and minority ethnic staff and to promote general equality of opportunity.
- Influence policy making and monitor existing policies to ensure that the equality perspective is proactively considered.
To contact the Co-Chairs Petra Che and Hildah Mapeta, please email: raceequalitynetwork@porthosp.nhs.uk
The PHU Women’s Network launched in September 2022, following conversations with staff that revealed a desire for a network supporting and raising awareness of matters that affect women.
The network focuses on career progression, health and wellbeing, and will provide opportunities to discuss issues and raise concerns. The network aims to bring women and allies together to overcome challenges to improve the experience women have in the workplace. The network provides a forum to talk confidentially about work experiences and respond to matters that affect women.
For more information about the network please contact the Co-Chairs, Kate Sandys and Tamzin Williams by email: Womens.