Invitation to 'Allies: The other half of inclusion success'

Two of our diversity and inclusion networks, Women@Reading and the Staff Disability Network, have joined together to welcome prospective Allies to our Networks and to provide information and guidance on how to fulfil this vital role.

The session will take place online on Friday 5 March, 13:00-14:30.

The evidence (HBR 2018) shows that when men are deliberately engaged in gender inclusion programmes, 96% of organizations see progress - compared with only 30% of organizations where men are not engaged. The same picture is seen when allies engage with disability networks; 72% of those being trained can confidently engage with people with disabilities and 77% of organisations can implement person-centred approaches.

It is our aim that by inviting colleagues to take part in this Ally training, we will build awareness of issues faced by each of the groups and will provide you with the enthusiasm, impetus and knowledge to exercise skills in:

• Recognising opportunities for the advancement of women and those with disabilities in the workplace
• Calling out microaggressions and exclusive behaviour in support of equality and diversity
• Putting your efforts behind extinguishing all forms of prejudice and poor behaviour for our staff and students
• Using your voice and influence to support a safe and inclusive environment for all. To create a culture of giving female and disabled students and staff equal strength through words, behaviour and example.

Please complete this short online form to register your interest - a joining link will be sent to you ahead of the training session.

Vice-Chancellor Robert van de Noort and Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education Elizabeth McCrum will join us as the University Executive Board Champions for these diversity groups.

The joint chairs of each of the networks, Professor Claire Collins (Women@Reading) and Dr Yota Dimitriadi (Staff Disability Network) will introduce the sessions.

Gemma Fitz (LGBT+ Network) will lead the awareness and training session.