What is the disability staff network for and who can join?
The disability staff network is a multi-disciplinary group. The network is run by disabled staff for staff with a disability and is open to all staff who identify as disabled. This includes staff who are carers of a disabled person and wish to support each other, as well as sharing an interest in progressing disability equality and inclusion.
The Equality Act 2010 defines disability as:
“A physical or mental impairment that has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long term’ negative effect on your ability to carry out normal daily activities.”
BCHFT recognises disability in its widest perception and that not all disabilities are visible or permanent. Disability may include but are not limited to physical disabilities, neurodiversity, specific learning difficulties, and learning differences. These include conditions such as dyslexia, autism, mental health conditions, chronic health conditions, and sensory impairments.
The disability staff network like to think that they can identify as ‘differently abled’ – so dropping the stigma that is often associated with disability.
The network aims are to:
Make sure the voice of disabled staff forms part of inclusion work at a strategic and local level, through working with the HR and equality & diversity inclusion teams. Inform, influence, and report into the equality and diversity committee. Connect and bring together staff with disabilities in a safe, confidential and informal environment to share knowledge and experiences. Raise the profile of disability inclusion, in order to help address barriers and challenges, and to bring about positive change. Help and encourage staff to positively identify as disabled. Help managers and staff identify disability and make appropriate reasonable adjustments.
Make a difference to BCHFT staff with a disability in their working environment.
Reach out to every person that identifies as disabled and offer support and inclusion, ensuring the Trust treats disability with equality, equity and fairness.
Provide the required support, adaptations, and equipment to allow disabled staff to do their job and be confident and safe in their working environment. Improve our network as we progress, engaging with staff to ensure positive experiences within BCHFT for both current and new staff and carers.