Black History Month – What is the EEAST BME network?

EEAST BME Network

The EEAST BME network was created in response introduction of the workforce race equality standard (WRES) by NHS England in 2014.

This plan highlighted that the NHS still has a considerable way to go in ensuring that organisations within the umbrella, work harder to create and nurture a working environment that allows staff from non-white British backgrounds, to have fair and equal treatment and career opportunities.

The network is assisted by the trust EDI team, as well as having an executive network sponsor.

The network so far has worked hard in creating work streams, specifically around training and development, recruitment/retention and policies/procedures, in line with the data produced from the WRES indicators, to try and steer the trust in taking more positive action to create equitable change.

Noticeable developments include a piloting a reverse mentoring scheme, introduction of cultural ambassadors (near completion) and assisting sector leads with new methods of managing race-related incidents within EEAST.

Outside of these, the network offers a safe space for staff to present new ideas, engage with other colleagues, discuss experiences around working life in EEAST and support in engaging with local senior management.

The network aims to be a staff led, integral part of driving in a much-needed culture change within EEAST around racial diversity and inclusivity. It welcomes support, ideas and allyship from all members of EEAST staff and other staff networks.

For further information, contact network Chair Tanoh Asamoah-Danso, Tanoh.danso@eastamb.nhs.uk

Published 28th October 2021