We Are All Diverse: Bringing Your Whole Self To Work

A reflective space to explore diversity in all its forms and what it means to feel able to bring your whole self to work

We are all diverse.Our differences can not only be shaped by culture, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexuality or age, but also by neurodiversity, disability, physical and mental health, family circumstances, caring responsibilities, life experiences, personality, communication styles and the many other things that make us who we are.

Some differences are visible, while others may be hidden or not immediately understood by those around us. We may hold several different identities and experiences at the same time, and these can affect how safe, included or comfortable we feel at work.

These parts of ourselves can influence how we experience work, how we relate to colleagues and the people we support, and whether we feel able to be open, accepted and valued.

At times, we may feel comfortable bringing our whole selves to work. At other times, we may feel pressure to hide, adapt or minimise parts of ourselves to fit in, avoid judgement or feel safe. This can include feeling that we need to mask aspects of who we are, such as our neurodiversity, disability, emotions, beliefs or personal circumstances. The effort involved in masking, explaining ourselves, managing assumptions or navigating other people’s expectations can sometimes be exhausting.

This Schwartz Round will provide a safe, confidential and reflective space to consider the emotional impact of diversity, belonging and inclusion in the workplace. Through shared stories and reflections, we will explore what it feels like when people are recognised, understood and welcomed for who they are, as well as the impact when parts of ourselves are overlooked, misunderstood or not fully accepted.

The Round is not about finding solutions, debating policy or discussing individual cases. Instead, it offers an opportunity to pause, listen and reflect together on the human side of working in health, care and community settings. You do not need to prepare anything or share your own experiences. You are welcome to simply listen, reflect and take from the conversation what feels meaningful to you.

Everyone working or volunteering across health and care in Kirklees, Calderdale and Wakefield is welcome to attend. This includes colleagues from VCSE organisations.

For further information please contact: michelle.dooling@cht.nhs.uk

If you are based in Wakefield, please email compassionatecultures@cht.nhs.uk to reserve a place.