One of the networks set up to support staff and make Royal Brompton and Harefield hospitals more inclusive places has been given a prestigious national award.
The Disability And Wellness Network (DAWN), which supports disabled colleagues at the hospitals, received the ‘Stellar Standard’ from the organisation that promotes staff networks across the country today, on Staff Networks Day (8 May).
Following tough competition, DAWN received the recognition for demonstrating it had played a key role in supporting members, as well as contributing to diversity and inclusion, for example by:
- successfully co-creating Changing Places toilets and ‘Sit Stop’ chairs
- lobbying for improvements to local bus routes and hospital infrastructure
- launching an art project with local schools to raise awareness of disability
- setting up support initiatives like an A-Z Guide to wellbeing and ‘Pick me up’ vouchers.
Recipients of the Stellar Standard were announced on Staff Networks Day, the national day of recognition that marks the contribution networks make – through time and effort voluntarily given by staff – ensuring their working environments are better places, free from discrimination, and promote equality and inclusion.
Welcoming the award, Dr Richard Grocott-Mason, chief executive of Royal Brompton and Harefield hospitals, said:
“We have all known for a long time that our DAWN support for staff has been excellent, so it is great to see this recognised at a prestigious level by a national organisation. Staff networks play such an important role creating a workplace where everyone has equal opportunities, and people are treated with respect and dignity, and are able to do their best without facing discrimination.”
Announcing the Stellar Standard, Cherron Inko-Tariah MBE, said: “We launched the Stellar Standard to showcase employee networks like DAWN who are making a difference in their organisations. The Standard looks at impact and effectiveness; DAWN had this in abundance and I’m thrilled for them! I hope others feel inspired to apply.”
Trust chief executive Ian Abbs said in a message to all staff, marking Staff Networks Day:
“I want to express my gratitude to our colleagues within these networks for the work they do to help transform the Trust into a more inclusive workplace – your stories and lived experiences help to inspire and encourage others.”
Co-chair of DAWN Ras Kahai said she was delighted the network had gained such prestigious national recognition: “We were one of the last hospitals to have a disability network and in just over three years, thanks to our impact-led approach, co-creating initiatives with disabled colleagues and executive support, we have now been judged one of the leaders. Disabled staff still remain underpaid, underpromoted and underemployed. We need to continue challenging discrimination and championing access for all.”