Inclusion

What is Inclusion?

Inclusion is a term used to describe a range of strategies and activities designed to create a supportive environment in which individuals are accepted and valued, and their differences are recognised and respected. Inclusion is about creating a culture of belonging and respect, and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their individual differences, feels a sense of belonging, and is a part of a larger whole.

Benefits of Inclusion

Inclusion has a number of benefits, both for individuals and organisations. On a personal level, inclusion can lead to greater respect, self-esteem, self-confidence, cooperation, problem-solving, and communication among individuals. Organisations benefit from an increased sense of community, improved performance, greater productivity, and a more creative and diverse workforce.

Practical Steps to Promote Inclusion in the Workplace

• Create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, religion, ethnicity, or background.
• Encourage open dialogue and respect for other viewpoints by creating an environment of dialogue in which everyone can express their opinions and feelings without fear of judgement.
• Celebrate diversity and individual differences. Celebrate the cultures, identities, backgrounds, and talents of all your employees.
• Ensure that everyone has equal access to opportunities and resources. Ensure that recruitment, promotion, retention, and access to training, development, and networking opportunities are provided in a fair and equitable way.
• Provide opportunities for employees to get to know each other by organizing social and recreational activities for all staff.
• Engage with employees to identify areas where further change is required, and ways in which to achieve this.