The circumstances we are currently living in are unprecedented. Half of the world's population is on lockdown and over
1 million people globally have been diagnosed with Covid-19.
There are so many angles to a pandemic, the most commendable being the
daily heroics of people within our NHS. It seems pertinent to ask, during this
time of self-isolation and social distancing, what are the implications on
inclusion and belonging?
Stonewall recently said, "Whenever something happens, there are
always those of us who face additional barriers through being more excluded than
others." Certain groups will
experience specific issues and it is important to ensure we are able to support
colleagues from these groups to the best of our ability.
At Vodafone, we define inclusion
as an environment where everyone is respected for their different viewpoints
and backgrounds. We define belonging as
feeling accepted, appreciated and part of the
team. It is a human need and increases motivation, health and happiness.
Self-isolation and social
distancing are not the opposite of belonging and inclusion, not unless
we make them so. We must avoid being exclusionary now, more than ever. We must
see this is an opportunity to make colleagues feel more included and we must
reassure colleagues that we are here to support them.
Vodafone
have a zero tolerance approach to any kind of discriminatory behaviour, and we
continue to emphasise our commitment towards inclusion for all. At Vodafone, we embrace
and welcome everyone. For more information on diversity and inclusion, click here.
