Our Different Together approach
At Wheatley we are committed to ensuring our employees are supported so they can feel comfortable at work and have access to development opportunities.
It’s important that our people have the support they need and we create a workplace culture where everyone can succeed.
In 2022 we launched our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion campaign, ‘Different Together’ which involved appointing an employee led network called the Community of Excellence (CoE), to influence ongoing positive changes for our people.
Our six employee networking groups associated with the CoE are ambassadors, supporting the organisation continue to do more to respect, celebrate and include all differences that make us individually unique.
Working at Wheatley Group, you will not only have the full support of our Different Together networking groups, but you will also be actively encouraged to be part of them – as we all have our part to play.
This approach not only ensures our workforce feel like they can use their voice no matter their background or opinions, but it also allows us to improve and tailor the services we offer, so they are fit for purpose.
As a team, we can benefit from the collective strength each of our staff bring to Wheatley Group. This is not only important for Wheatley colleagues, but also our customers so they can feel represented by the people delivering their services.
Find out more about our six networking groups below.
LGBTQ+
The networking group hosts regular drop-in sessions for colleagues who wish to chat about matters affecting members of the LGBTQ+ in the workplace.
They have also been supporting Wheatley to play a more active role in community events such as Pride.
Race and multiculture
It is important for us to accurately represent all our colleagues and our race and multicultural group seeks out different voices across Wheatley to ensure they all have their say.
Age
This networking group was formed to assist colleagues no matter what stage of their career at Wheatley.
Whether you a re a new member of staff and need support adjusting to life a Wheatley, or someone who has been with the organisation for years, the networking group is here to support you and use your perspective to help shape positive change .
Menopause
The networking group hosts Wheatley's menopause café for colleagues going through menopause or perimenopause, so they can share insights and support.
This is reflected in Wheatley's Menopause Guidance document, which the networking group helped to develop, to give staff and managers useful information on how to support each other and open up productive conversations.
Carers
Our carers network offer colleagues a wide variety of resources around how to identify as a carer and what support might be available, whether in relation to your wellbeing or financially.
They helped Wheatley launch its first Carers Passport, which is a useful tool for colleagues who are carers, to use when highlighting their responsibilities to their manager.
Disability and neurodiversity
Our networking group for colleagues with disabilities and/or neurodiversion advocate on behalf of colleagues who may need additional support, so we can all have access to the same opportunities.
A art of their work is shining a light on common issues faced by neurodiverse colleagues or colleagues with disabilities through key events throughout the year such as Neurodiversity Celebration Week.