Step to Work | Developing and working in an inclusive environment

Developing and working in an inclusive environment
By the end of the session you should be able to:

describe the elements that make up an inclusive practice learning environment
explain what we can all do to facilitate a shared sense of belonging at work
practice microaffirmations to contribute to an inclusive practice learning environment

Document your answers to the following reflection in the worksheet. The exercise should take about 10 to 15 minutes to complete.

reflection: shared sense of belonging

• Think about ways that you can help create a shared sense of belonging at work. An example of this might be improving the culture within your team or teamworking with colleagues.
• Reflect on an instance of 'microaggression' that you have witnessed in the past. In what way did it make the person feel excluded or discriminated against? Watch this YouTube video for examples of microaggressions, which will open in a new window.

If a microaggression is a subtle expression of negative attitude toward a person, a 'microaffirmation' is a subtle expression of a positive attitude (such as recognising the achievements of others). It's like a mini thumbs-up.

• Try practising microaffirmations at work and observe what effect they have on the practice environment

Summary

• Equality means each individual or group of people is given the same resources or opportunities.
• Equity recognises that each person has different circumstances and allocates the exact resources and opportunities needed to reach an equal outcome.
• Diversity is to respect and enjoy a wide range of cultural and individual differences, thereby including everyone.
• In the UK, the Equality Act 2010 safeguards those with protective characteristics from discrimination in the workplace.
• Direct benefits of inclusive practice learning environment include improved service user experience and staff retention.