Inclusivity
At West Yorkshire Combined Authority, we’re creating an inclusive, accessible environment where every colleague feels valued, supported, and empowered to be their true self.
At West Yorkshire Combined Authority, we’re creating an inclusive, accessible environment where every colleague feels valued, supported, and empowered to be their true self.
At West Yorkshire Combined Authority, we’re committed to creating an inclusive and accessible workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and able to thrive. We celebrate diversity and encourage all colleagues to bring their whole selves to work.
Through open conversations, staff networks, and inclusive policies, we’re building a culture of belonging, one where everyone has the opportunity to grow, contribute, and succeed.
We believe that diversity in experience, background, and thought leads to better outcomes and a more creative and effective workplace. We aim to be recognised nationally for our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI).
This includes:
We recognise that we have under-representation across the organisation, particularly at senior level. We therefore encourage and welcome applications irrespective of people's age, disability, gender identity and gender expression, neurodivergence, pregnancy or maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief (or no belief), sex, sex characteristics, sexual orientation, or other characteristics that shape our whole selves.
By embedding EDI into our recruitment and workplace culture, we aim to create a truly representative and supportive environment.
At the Combined Authority, our Staff Network Groups play a vital role in supporting our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) work. These networks offer safe, supportive spaces where colleagues with similar backgrounds, life experiences, or characteristics can come together to connect and support one another.
These groups also help shape and strengthen our EDI efforts. They raise awareness, provide valuable insight for decision-making, solve problems, and encourage fresh ideas to help us build a more inclusive workplace.
Embrace was set up in 2020 for staff at the Combined Authority who identify as Black, Asian or from any other minority ethnic background.
The group aims to reflect the full diversity of ethnically diverse staff and give them a strong voice. Embrace works to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion across the organisation and helps make sure everyone feels represented and heard.
The Gender Equality Group launched in late 2020. It brings staff together to tackle gender inequality and push for positive change.
This action-focused group meets regularly and has already helped deliver several important improvements:
Proud was formed in 2020 for LGBTQIA+ colleagues at the Combined Authority. The group’s goal is to make the organisation a safe and inclusive space, where everyone can be their true self without fear of judgment or discrimination.
Proud supports an anti-racist, inclusive workplace and works to raise awareness and celebrate diversity both inside and outside the organisation.
WeCan launched in 2021 for staff with a disability or long-term condition that affects their daily life. The network is open to all, including allies, friends, and family of disabled people.
WeCan provides a safe and supportive space for colleagues to discuss issues they face, suggest improvements to the workplace, and help make the organisation more inclusive for disabled employees.
The Young Employee Network is for colleagues aged under 31. It was created as a safe and supportive space for younger staff to connect, share experiences, and help each other.
The network aligns with the Combined Authority’s Fair Work Charter and supports the aims of the Youth Employment UK’s Youth Voices Census.
Alongside our Staff Networks, we also offer the following support groups:
A group for parents, guardians, and carers of neurodivergent children (whether diagnosed or not), offering a space to share experiences and support.
A group for colleagues aged 31 and over, offering opportunities to connect with peers and share life and work experiences.
A group for allies who want to support LGBTQIA+ colleagues and champion inclusivity in the workplace.
