Equality and Diversity

Our aim is to make equality an integral part of the way the council works by putting it at the centre of everything we do.

Working with staff

Equality champions

Their role is to:

• assist their team and service with anything related to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)
• support the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion officer
• share and get involved in opportunities to raise awareness of  EDI
• start the conversation with colleagues about  EDI
• share best practice and celebrate diversity across the Council and community in Cheshire East.

Equality and Diversity staff network groups

The staff network groups provide peer support to staff that identify with one or more of the protected characteristics. Each of the staff forums meets regularly and provides its members with an opportunity to influence what happens in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at Cheshire East Council.

Racial Equality Staff Network Group (Doesn’t currently meet)

This forum is for our members of staff who identify as black, Asian and minority ethnic. It is an opportunity for them to have some influence in how Cheshire East Council supports its black, Asian and minority ethnic staff and provides for their cultural or religious needs. 

Differently Abled

The Differently Abled staff network is a friendly, safe space for all staff. It offers support to staff who might have a physical or hidden disability, a long-term illness, or who might be caring for someone.

The Differently Abled group meets monthly via Teams and welcomes the views and experiences of all staff

Early Careers Network

The Early Careers Network is open to anyone who is in the early stages of their career in Local Government. The network strives to help peers make the most of the opportunities the council has to offer, giving them insight into different service areas, share experiences and to support council initiatives.

The aims of The Early Careers Network are to provide:

• Community - To act as a support network for new staff members, including apprentices offering support, guidance and a safe space.
• Voice - To be advocates for those starting out in the early stages of their career across the council, encouraging and enabling members to raise issues, ask questions and promote ideas, opportunities and successes.
• Opportunity - Provide opportunities for both personal and professional development opportunities for employees starting out their career across the organisation through shadowing, talks, mentoring and awareness of new initiatives.

VibranCE

VibranCE is open to all staff who either identify as a member of the LGBT+ community or to anyone who wishes to be an ally to our LGBT+ staff. The group meets monthly, currently via Teams.

It is a judgment-free space where you can ask questions, discuss things that affect you in the workplace and have some social time with other LGBT+ staff and allies. 

The Circle (Doesn’t currently meet)

The Circle is a laid back and judgement free group for men, which offers time out of work to talk and socialise.

The Circle meets fortnightly via Teams for an hour; however, this time is yours and you can join for as little or as long as you want, with no obligation to stay for the whole meeting.

Women's Staff Network

The Women’s Staff Network is a friendly and supportive social space for women to share their experiences and talk about what matters to them both at work and home.

The group meets monthly via Teams and aims to provide support for women’s health and wellbeing.

Contact Equality and Inclusion mailbox

If you would like any further information on any of the groups email: equalityandinclusion@cheshireeast.gov.uk