Exertis has launched two new internal Support Groups for its employees' benefit – Fertility and Men’s – in a board-level change to drive continued focus on Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
The company has a strong emphasis on employee support, and Employee Resource and Support Groups play a core part in the ‘people experience’, helping to champion talent and provide a safe space for those who identify as part of the community.
These support groups also create opportunities and platforms for meaningful dialogue and education, while also working in partnership with the People Function to enhance policies and processes.
An established trained Mental Health First Aider Support Group was complemented two years ago with Women, Ethnicity and LGBTQIA+ Employee Resource Groups being set up.
Last year, the Enable network (for Neurodiverse and differently-abled colleagues) launched, as well as the Menopause Support Group.
The most recent additions are the Fertility and Men's Support Groups which formed recently following colleague requests.
This week, during Mental Health Awareness Week and Learning at Work week, Exertis’s specialist teams are sharing resources and information to support colleagues with mental health and developing their career opportunities.
Additionally, Jo Lawrence (pictured) has been named Chief People & Inclusion Officer, highlighting the continuing importance that the distributor places on DEI.
Lawrence said: “Our commitment to fostering a culture of inclusion where everyone can be their true self is unwavering. We continue to champion a culture of dignity and respect where everyone feels valued, included and celebrated.
“Partnering with other businesses to share best practice has been invaluable as we continue to explore creative ways to enable all our colleagues to be the best they can be.”