Wed 24 Jan 2024
Individuals who run staff networks and Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) do so voluntarily, which takes their role of fostering a workplace culture that values diversity and empowers every member to the next level
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and staff networks play a vital role in enhancing the workplace environment. These groups often represent the interests and concerns of employees based on their gender, race, faith, disability, sexuality, or carers' status. By bringing together like-minded individuals, these networks create a secure space where employees can share their experiences, discuss challenges, and celebrate milestones. By doing so, they contribute to developing a positive workplace culture.
The sense of belonging these organisations create is a powerful motivator, fostering a workplace environment that values and appreciates each individual's unique perspectives.
Staff networks in the civil service
The UK civil service has 29 active staff networks, weaving a narrative of inclusion, support, and innovation in their workplaces. Individuals who run these networks do so voluntarily, which takes their role of fostering a workplace culture that values diversity and empowers every member to the next level.
However, developing staff networks and ERGs can be challenging due to their voluntary nature. Those with a leading role in these organisations face pressure to balance their time and dedication.
The conference 'Fostering Staff Networks & ERGs: Engaging Staff and Driving Business Goals' has addressed the challenge of engaging employees since its first event in 2020. This year, the conference returns chaired by Cherron Inko-Tariah MBE, author of "The Incredible Power of Staff Networks". She will provide practical insights into the recently launched Stellar Standard.
A celebration of staff contributions
The Stellar Standard is a new measure that staff networks and ERGs can use to benchmark their learning, effectiveness and performance. It has been launched as an annual national recognition honouring and celebrating staff networks' outstanding contributions and achievements.
In addition, the Stellar Standard acts as a maturity guide and indicator of good practice, demonstrating how networks meet their members' needs, benefitting the wider organisation and building progressive relationships with other stakeholders.
Justin Placide, a civil servant serving as the Head of Net Zero Governance, Briefing and Fiscal Events, as well as Co-Chair of The FAME Network and The Civil Service Race Forum, is scheduled to speak at a conference 'Fostering Staff Networks & ERGs: Engaging Staff and Driving Business Goals'. He will share practical insights on expanding the vision and ambition of staff networks, measuring outcomes and success, making better-informed decisions, and transforming networks into talent and leadership development pipelines.
The session with Kirstie Wilson is a must-attend for those keen on creating a staff network in their organisation but don't know where to start. The Learning, Development, and Engagement Manager at PurpleSpace will cover everything, from deciding on the network's aims, vision and objectives to writing a business plan and developing a service offering.
'Fostering Staff Networks & ERGs: Engaging Staff and Driving Business Goals', will provide you with practical advice on how to create, support, and grow staff networks within your organisation.
View all news