Disabled Network
The Disabled Network is a catalyst for change to collectively create an inclusive workplace at the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) and Oranga Tamariki. The network is not about labelling ourselves. Our catch cry: Everything about us, with us.
Who are we?
Our network was formed in June 2018 and is part of the work programme that is implementing the LEAD Toolkit to increase the employment of disabled people across the public sector.
The sponsor for this work is Andrea Lawton, Deputy Chief Executive, People, Culture and Strategy, MSD.
Anyone from MSD and Oranga Tamariki throughout Aotearoa New Zealand are welcome to join this network. People do not have to have a disability (permanent or situational) to join.
People who join this network do not have to share anything about their disability or why they have joined. People with hidden disabilities, including those with mental health conditions are welcome to be part of this network.
Our goals
Our Network aims to:
- be a safe environment to identify issues
- provide collegial support
- be a role model for managers, other staff and the clients we serve
- increase the visibility of disabled people and awareness of disability
- empower all to have the strength to raise their concerns
- be recognised as having proactive expertise with valuable skills that assist MSD to walk the talk - this requires a route through to senior management
- develop successful strategies and break down the barriers to enable all to reach their potential, and address the myths, including that we aren’t asking for extra privileges
- create an organisation that is not only diverse and inclusive, but a place we all feel we belong
- be an advocate for others.
What we're about
Our network:
- has provided a submission to the reform of the Public Sector Act
- has created a new staff induction checklist (for disabled employees)
- has created disability responsiveness training for managers to ensure staff and managers are disability confident, so that everyone:
- responds appropriately to disabled people
- uses disability neutral language
- addresses any stereotyping attitudes and behaviours
- understands their values and impact on their work
- participates in the agency-wide Disability Forum
- looks at inconsistent practices and champion the cause of disabled employees, including:
- accessibility issues
- web standards and accessibility monitoring
- is the point of contact for employee-impacting changes.
Why you should join us?
- Opportunity for collegial support in a safe and trusting environment.
- Support in challenging times.
- Progress issues that are of concern.
- Input into driving an inclusive workplace.
- Place where there is a sense of belonging.
- Contribute to enhancing the wellbeing of all MSD / Oranga Tamariki staff.