The recognition is for our five Staff Networks which help us to celebrate diversity and equality across the organisation; Multicultural Network, Women’s Network, Carers Network, LGBTQ+ Network and our disABILITY Network.
The award aims to recognise an organisation that has made a significant improvement and continued commitment to the diversity of its workforce. It celebrates organisations, like Cygnet, that are actively trying to eliminate discrimination and to ensure equity of opportunity to those with a protected characteristic.
It is for those that actively try to support employees, taking into account age, gender, sexual orientation, disability or ethnic background, to reach their potential with equal access to opportunities and progression.
Jenny Gibson, Cygnet HR Director, said she was delighted our staff networks had been recognised as a finalist at the awards.
She added: “The health, well-being and career development of our staff are essential to our outstanding service provision. Our multiple staff networks help ensure that everyone who works at Cygnet is treated with respect and has access to equal opportunities.
“Cygnet celebrates diversity and inclusion by welcoming everyone from all backgrounds and experiences. Our purpose and inspiring outcomes motivate people to work with us from different backgrounds and experiences, from all corners of the country and indeed from across the world.
“Within Cygnet we encourage people to be their authentic selves whilst also being self-aware of how our actions and attitude can impact on others. We expect everyone to live our values of care, respect, empower, trust and integrity and in doing so to appreciate and learn from each other — whether that is from our teams, the wider Cygnet group or the people we care for.”
Cygnet’s LGBTQ+ Network is as colourful, creative, honest and open as its members. It aims to collaboratively promote understanding and inclusivity within the workplace and provides a safe space for all LGBTQ+ people to discuss their unique experiences and share ideas of how we can support emotional wellness at work.
The mission of the Women’s Network is to engage and empower women and their allies, enabling them to connect with and support each other in a safe and non-judgemental environment.
Our disABILITY Network looks at hidden disability and known disabilities affecting colleagues in Cygnet, those who are caring for someone with a disability at home, and the impact of disability on your work. It provides an opportunity to address issues about disability and the impact it has on people’s work and their lives at home.
The Multicultural Network aims to enhance the experience of ethnic minority colleagues by creating an environment of openness and fairness, promoting excellence and ensuring opportunities for all staff to be their best self.
We also know how hard life can be for carers and our Staff Carers Network gives colleagues a safe space where they can sit, listen, support, and advise, or share their own experiences and tips.
Jenny added: “With over 10,000 staff and over 110 nationalities, we want to bring staff together and create a culture of belonging. That is where our staff networks have been invaluable in ensuring everyone has a voice and feels well connected and supported by one another.
“Here at Cygnet, we are incredibly proud of our globally diverse team, all working together to help improve the lives of the people in our care every single day. We celebrate diversity because different people, with different perspectives make Cygnet a better health and social care provider.”
Winners will be announced at a special awards ceremony on Thursday 28 November.