Employee Network Groups
Creating a culture of belonging within an organisation is essential for fostering an environment where everyone can thrive. We want our employees to feel valued and included and that they belong at Herefordshire Council. By embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity, we believe we can unlock the full potential of our workforce and be the best for Herefordshire.
We encourage our employees to feel empowered and to use their voices to help shape our organisation and we have eight employee network groups. These groups are collectives of colleagues, who often share identities, life experiences or cultures and offer support and community across our people. They also play an important role in strengthening the voices of employees at Herefordshire Council. Embedded in the Council’s values is a commitment to listen to people’s views and needs.
Armed Forces Network
Herefordshire has a proud military heritage, and the council was one of the first local authorities to pledge to the Armed Forces Covenant in 2012 and we are committed to supporting the veterans, armed forces families and reservists in our workforce.
Our Armed Forces Network work hard to welcome those with military links into the workforce, offering support and actively contributes to the council’s ambition to welcome more veterans and advises on how to harness the value that veterans bring to our organisation.
Black and Asian Staff Network
Our Black and Asian Staff Network offers a supportive space for individuals who identify as Black, Asian or from an ethnic minority background. The network is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all employees, regardless of their ethnicity, feel valued, welcomed and empowered to thrive.
Climate and Nature Network
Herefordshire Council has a commitment to reduce carbon emissions to net zero by 2030 and our Climate and Nature Network are a group who support colleagues to engage and learn about this commitment. They are passionate about projects that can help and enrich the incredible diverse environment in Herefordshire and welcome those that share that passion.
Diff-Abilities Network
Our Diff-Abilities Network are a group of committed colleagues dedicated to celebrating diversity, fostering inclusion and empowering individuals with different abilities across the organisation. They also advocate for positive change to create a more accessible workplace for all and offer a supportive environment for their members.
Early Careers Connections Network
Whether you are starting out on your career, new to Herefordshire or Herefordshire Council or moving to a new role in the organisation, it can feel daunting. The Early Careers Connections Network offers supportive ear, answers to those everyday questions like, ‘where do I get a cuppa?’ and the opportunity to make connections with others in a supportive environment.
LGBTQ+ Network
Whether you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community or are an ally, the LGBTQ+ offer you friendship and a safe space to meet and talk with others. The group aims to advance changes that allow all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity to be respected and valued.
Parent and Carers Together Network
Our Parent and Carers Together Network aims to bring together those with caring responsibilities across our workforce. Whether you are preparing for parental leave, new to parenthood, lone parenting, working around caring for dependants of any age, engaged in eldercare or even providing help and assistance to a friend or neighbour with day-to-day life, this group are here to support you. They share experiences, offer guidance and advocate for flexible working for all.
Voice Network
Coming together from all directorates, teams and backgrounds, our Voice Network are a group of engaged and trusted individuals. They offer the organisation insights to the council’s culture and morale and provide feedback on upcoming projects and initiatives with the aim of making Herefordshire Council a great place to work.
