Throughout June, we are focusing on diversity, equity and inclusion. Nicky Lintott, Elysium’s Head of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, tells us about the organisation’s ongoing approach to this important topic, the growth and adaptation of our employee resource groups and the implementation of the Patient and Carer Race Equality Framework.
“As an organisation, Elysium takes a proactive approach to diversity, equity and inc
lusion. I was appointed as Head of DE&I around two and a half years ago, and in that time we’ve seen our employee resource groups grow, flex and organically evolve, which has been really encouraging to see.
“We are still very much on a journey, and continue to work as an organisation to do all we can to embed and encourage DE&I in all areas and services, and are actively working to be an anti-racist organisation. Many of our colleagues are international and can experience racism from some people who use our services. We are working to do everything possible to address that.
“Alongside that work, throughout June, we are marking the importance of the Patient and Carer Race Equality Framework, or PCERF. This has key objectives, including being an anti-racist organisation, and we are working towards achieving this goal.
“Throughout the month, we are communicating with our teams about tackling racism, sharing best practice from colleagues, and holding webinars and training. We are aiming to raise visibility of this really important topic and help colleagues take action.
“At our recent Nurses’ Conference, we also shared films of our colleagues speaking about their experiences of racism, microaggressions and the importance of allyship. These were followed by workshops for people to share learning and views. Elsewhere, some of our services are running QI projects which centre on racism.
“We aim to develop a toolkit for sites to use as we develop our organisational approach to tackling racism.
“Additionally, our race and ethnicity employee resource group, Beyond Differences, has set up an overseas staff forum which meets regularly. The whole group has more than 300 members and is a powerful way of sharing thoughts, experiences and seeking advice.
“Our other ERGs are also thriving. A neurodiversity ERG recently launched to join United by Pride, our LGBTQA+ ERG; Bridging Abilities, our Disability ERG; the Women’s Initiative Network, our Women’s ERG; and the Working Families and Care Givers’ ERG.
“These have evolved and, in many cases, have increased in membership. They have significantly contributed to policy creation, advocacy and raising visibility. Real change is happening because of the contribution of these groups and their members.”