Information on Staff Networks

Joining a staff network

Everyone is welcome to join our staff networks.  Let’s create conversation, inclusion and mutual understanding.

We are creating a more equal, diverse, and inclusive organisation.  To support this we are developing our staff networks. These are for groups of colleagues who might have faced marginalised in the past.

Our staff networks aim to:

• Create safe spaces for colleagues to share knowledge and experiences.
• Raise awareness of workplace issues facing staff groups to the rest of our teams.
• Being a collective voice to influence policy and practice and share with our leaders.
• Celebrate achievements of colleagues and to create a sense of belonging.
• Provide support to colleagues facing individual challenges at work.
• Enhance the services we offer to patients, visitors and our local communities.
• Promote career progression.

Our staff networks support fairness for colleagues in raising concerns, our policies, and in our recruitment. They also arrange a variety of activities marking key international events and days. Our networks being successful will help us to make our Trust a better place to work.  Because when our colleagues feel happy at work, the positivity reaches our patients.

Armed Forces Network

The Armed Forces network is open to all ESNEFT colleagues, including students. Our aim is to make sure members aren’t disadvantaged and receive the same treatment as others.

The network is particularly suited to:

• Cadet instructors.
• Staff with a family member who serves in the armed forces or who once served.
• Anyone with a general interest in the armed forces.

EMBRace network (Equality Moving Beyond Race) Network

Membership is for everyone with an interest in promoting racial and cultural equality.

The EMBRace network provides a forum for our ethnic minority groups. Providing a safe and learning environment to share skills, knowledge, and experiences.

The network also helps shape inclusive and accessible services.

ESNable Disability Network

The ESNable Disability Network is for:

• Any member of staff who has a disability or a long-term condition (LTC).
• People with a caring responsibility for a person with a disability or LTC.
• Able-bodied staff with an interest in promoting awareness of experiences as allies.

The ESNAble network help support staff with long-term health conditions or disabilities. Staff can request help with applying for access to work with reasonable adjustments. This includes help with forms revolving around transport.

There’s also a reasonable adjustments passport available to staff.

LGBTQ+ Friends Network

The network represents the interests of LGBTQIA+ staff and patients at ESNEFT.

We are involved in positive changes in the workplace. Our aim is for all LGBTQIA+ staff to excel in a non-discriminatory environment.

We are also ensuring that patient services are welcoming and non-judgemental. As well as meeting the healthcare needs of the LGBTQIA+ community.