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.

Differently Abled

The Differently Abled staff network is a friendly safe space for all staff. It offers support to anyone living with a disability or disabling condition, whether it be physical, neurodevelopmental or mental health related. It also supports those who are carers.

Differently Abled meet every 5 weeks or so via Teams. You can attend online meetings and listen, take part in discussion or some colleagues prefer to be part of the distribution list.

Contact: differentlyabled@cheshireeast.gov.uk

People of Colour Staff Network

The People of Colour Staff Network creates a sense of belonging by providing a safe forum to network, socialise, share, question, challenge and receive support and advice in relation to racism and cultural discrimination within the council and wider society.

The group meets once a month via Teams.

Contact: EqualityandInclusion@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Vibrance

This forum is open to all staff who either identify as a member of the LGBTQ+ community or to anyone who wishes to be an ally to our LGBTQ+ staff.

Informal meetings are held once monthly online. Vibrance is a safe place to come and talk informally, discuss things that affect you in the workplace and have some social time with other LGBT+ staff and allies. It is also somewhere that you can find out about and promote local events, news stories and activities. Questions can be asked without fear of being judged.

Contact: vibrance@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Veteran's network

The group aims to identify and help veterans and serving families within the Council. The groups seeks to talk about the ways that help can be provided and policy changes undertaken by the council. As gold covenant award holders we are committed to supporting our Armed Forces communities. We also work to make colleagues aware of what we are doing in our communities.

The group meets quarterly and welcome new members.

Contact: communitycohesion@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Women's Staff Network

The Women’s Staff Network is a welcoming space where women can connect, share experiences, and talk about what matters – at work and beyond.

Members help shape the future of the network by sharing what’s important to them as women working at Cheshire East Council.

Contact: womensstaffnet@cheshireeast.gov.uk.

Young Employee Network

The Young Employee Network is open to all Cheshire East Council employees aged 35 and under. The networks overall mission is to make Cheshire East Council an even better place to work for young people through activities such as:

• facilitating networking opportunities.
• creating and communicate development opportunities for young employees.
• identifying and seek to resolve barriers affecting young employees

Members are invited to fortnightly social catch up meetings via Teams, as well as a programme of monthly events either face to face or via Teams.

Contact: yen@cheshireeast.gov.uk.

Contact Equality and Inclusion mailbox

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