4 September 2018
This is the second article in our mini-series investigating the rise of diversity-specific roles within housing associations, ahead of the first Diversity, Equality and Inclusion in Housing Conference.
How did you become Head of Client Involvement, Diversity and Inclusion?
1. How has your role come into being? When was it created?
I started in this role in January 2017 and it was a brand new role. Previously there was a D&I lead within our HR team but the organisation were keen to have a more senior lead for D&I and for the role to sit outside of HR so it could objectively scrutinize our work.
2. Why are diversity issues so important in your organisation now?
Having proactive, successful approaches to D&I positively impacts on every one of our organisational objectives. It makes us more competitive and innovative, improves staff engagement and makes us better able to meet the diverse needs of our client group.
3. What’s the one thing that you’re working on in this area which really excites you?
Where to start! There is so much in my role that I’m passionate about and that excites me. We are currently organising a large event for Diversity Day which will bring lots of people together to share, celebrate and learn. I’m always hugely inspired by our Diversity and Inclusion Allies and thoroughly enjoy bringing them all together for our quarterly forums where we have speakers, workshops and take time to share practice. We have a BAME positive action strategy in partnership with our network which is focusing on BAME progression and I have been excited to see the concrete results that are emerging. And lots more!
Amy White
Amy is Head of Client Involvement, Diversity and Inclusion at St Mungo's
Amy works for St Mungo’s, a charity that works to end homelessness and rebuild lives. She’s worked in the homelessness and substance misuse sectors for 13 years in various roles including as a project worker, service manager, area manager and Head of Quality & Improvement in various settings including prisons, outreach, community drug and alcohol services, and residential rehabs. Amy now leads on developing and implementing St Mungo’s strategy and approach to client involvement and diversity and inclusion. She’s passionate about ensuring inclusion is embedded in how we are and what we do every day.