Home-Start UK: Championing Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace

At Home-Start UK, we believe that diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords but essential components of a thriving, supportive community. Since November 2022, we have embarked on a transformative journey to make our charity more inclusive and representative of the diverse communities we serve. Our mission is to address inequalities in access to early years and family support, ensuring that every family feels welcomed and valued. 

The establishment of our Diversity Champions group marked the beginning of a new era for Home-Start UK. This passionate team has been instrumental in challenging biases and assumptions, fostering a workplace where everyone feels comfortable bringing their whole selves to work. Our efforts have led to significant changes in our recruitment process, attracting a more diverse pool of candidates and volunteers. We have also updated our policies to prioritise equality and inclusion, ensuring that these values are at the heart of everything we do. 

To gauge the effectiveness of our initiatives, we have been diligent in collecting feedback and data from our employees. In January 2023, we conducted an anonymous poll to understand what diversity topics our colleagues were most interested in. The results were enlightening, with high engagement in events like Race Equality Week and Neurodiversity Celebration Week. Our yearly staff survey has shown a positive trend, with an increasing number of employees feeling comfortable and included at work.  

Maintaining the momentum of our diversity and inclusion initiatives is crucial. We are committed to embedding learning and keeping the conversation alive through awareness days and celebrations. Our Diversity Champions group continues to drive these efforts, supported by our leadership team and the broader staff community. We are constantly exploring new ways to enhance our inclusivity and ensure that every voice is heard. 

Our diversity and inclusion initiatives are closely aligned with Home-Start UK’s strategic framework. Our Inclusion Commitment calls for addressing inequalities in all aspects of our work, from early years’ support to our internal practices. The EEDI (Equality, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) action plan focuses on building a culture of inclusion, increasing diversity and representation, ensuring accessibility and equity, and advocating for equity, equality, and anti-racism. This strategic alignment ensures that our efforts are not just isolated initiatives but integral to our overall mission. 

Collaboration is key to our success. We work with a diverse range of employees and corporate partners to share best practices and raise awareness. Home-Start UK operates in 71% of local authority areas across the UK, supporting thousands of children and families. Understanding the diverse behaviours and cultures across different regions enriches our perspective and enhances our ability to provide effective support. 

Looking ahead, we aim to expand the Diversity Champions initiative across our federation of 180 local Home-Starts. By building connections and sharing resources, we hope to create a network of champions with a breadth of experience, further extending our reach and impact.  

Home-Start UK’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident in our achievements, strategic alignment, and collaborative efforts. We continue to strive for a more inclusive workplace and community, driven by the passion and dedication of our Diversity Champions and colleagues. Together, we are making a difference, one step at a time. 

Ella Neale will be talking about how to champion diversity and inclusion at our upcoming conference From Here to Diversity. Learn more and register here.