Disabled Employee Networks

Welcome to a vibrant and growing network of Disabled Employee Networks - we are in touch with over 200 Disabled Employee Networks from across the private and public sector. In this section of the website we offer a sample of our information and advice about setting up or refreshing a Network.  You may be the leader or supporter of a long-standing network or you may be just starting out.  You may be an employer and not sure what the benefits might be.  You may have just taken over a successful Network.  You may have been persuaded to take over a mediocre Network.  Whatever your perspective, and wherever you are in the organisation, this section should have something to offer you.

This virtual hub of 'talent and tools' has been made possible with part-sponsorship from Ernst & Young LLP.  The information will help anyone setting up a network for the first time or looking to refresh or revitalise a network that needs some more zing and sparkle. But crucially, if you are really serious about building a focused Network come along to the training courses and networking events. Let us help you to build a disability confident organisation from the inside out.  Let us help you develop the 'ultimate people network'.

What the networkers say:

Ben Iles,

Networks are a valuable tool to bring people together from diverse backgrounds to offer support and raise awareness amongst an organisation's employees.

Paul Willgoss,

Networks are a melting pot, a crucible to form the iron supporting new ideas, new ways of working, changing and refreshing organisations from within.

Winston Murray,

The Network provides a comfort zone for people to raise disability issues in confidence. It also can be protector/enforcer for its members.

Jeanette Rosenberg,

Whilst the strategic role of an network is crucial, more often it is the personal actions and interventions of individuals that can help to make all the difference.

Glen Hickman,

Networks have the power to put people in touch with the information and resources they need to make positive change.

Matthew Thomas,

Sharing experiences and solutions; that is arguably the most important aspect of the network.

Read all the network leaders' messages