Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

EDI – Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

At Affinity Trust, we have an inclusive culture, which respects individual difference and enables the people we support and the people we work with to be their authentic self and fulfil their potential. In turn, they contribute positively to the diverse range of communities in which they live and work.

We are committed to creating an environment that promotes dignity and respect for all. Our EDI Action Group is dedicated to breaking down barriers and ensuring that everyone feels included – by the words we say, the things we do and who we are.

We recognise that our organisation benefits from its diversity and are dedicated to championing and celebrating cultural differences. Over the past 12 months, we have shown our commitment and will build on this further to show our continued intention of promoting Equality, Diversity and Inclusion for all.

Our Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan. 

Support – and inclusion – can mean different things to different people, but empathy stays the same.

We were approached by one of the local authorities in Scotland we work with to see if anyone would like to help with their Ukrainian Resettlement Programme. Four people stepped up, who now work with families arriving from Ukraine. They help the people familiarise themselves with their new home and give them a warm welcome to Scotland. They also provide practical support, like help to apply for benefits or access resources from the local authority, anything that helps the refugees make a home here.

It’s been a real success, so much so that the authority has extended the relationship for another six months.

Leeds Pride – Raising money for a project called ‘Out Spoken’

Chloe, a support worker, suggested having a presence for Affinity Trust at Leeds Pride which turned into a fantastic event that put our values into action. She wanted to support an LGBTQI project she holds close to her heart; it was a team effort with the people they support. The enthusiasm never wavered, and the smiles were constant throughout the day.

Their first time at pride representing Affinity Trust, they were lucky enough to be able to be given a chance to have a stall to raise awareness for a project called ‘Out Spoken’, which was organised by the charity ‘Change’. The project aims to improve access to services and inclusion in the LGBTQI community for people with a learning disability or autism.

It was an incredible experience. So much happiness, love and positive energy in one place, they have had the most fun, with their stall consistently busy with people wanting to donate money to get their faces painted or donated money for some pride badges.

Leeds Pride was a great success; the most important factor for being present at Leeds Pride was addressing all the barriers that hinder an unrepresented group. They managed to raise almost £300 for the project ‘Out Spoken’.

Well done to Connie, Chloe and the Team.