HelpingMinds® is committed to ensuring that diversity and inclusion is at the core of the way we work. We believe that having a diverse and inclusive workforce supports our broader mission of promoting stronger connections with, and outcomes for, the communities we serve.
HelpingMinds® provides the same level of safe and quality services to all cultural and linguistic groups including but not limited to, First Nations people, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, age-diverse, and people of diverse sexualities and gender identities.
We believe that our team members are our greatest asset. We recognise that by fostering a culture that supports diversity, inclusion and respect, and therefore building a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to bring their full selves to work, we will achieve stronger outcomes for our organisation.
We work towards these goals by:
- Creating a safe and comfortable work environment for all employees
- Providing opportunities for leadership, career development, flexible work and equal participation for all team members
- Ensuring our organisation is reflective of the communities we serve in terms of attracting, retaining and engaging diverse individuals
- Promoting equality and respect throughout the organisation
- Developing effective leaders with skills to foster our culture of inclusion
- Ensuring we provide the same access and quality of services to all
- Ensuring our service team members have the skills to work with and advocate for diverse individuals and communities
Why we use pronouns
Pronouns are words used to refer to people (for example, she/her, he/him, or they/them). An easy way to normalise the use of pronouns is to include them in your email signature. There are a few reasons why this is beneficial:
When cisgender people include pronouns, it normalises it for everyone and protects trans and gender diverse people when they include their pronouns.
Having pronouns in an email signature signals you as an LGBTQIA+ ally.
Including pronouns in your email signature is a quick and easy way for cisgender people to have a powerful and positive impact. This is harder and riskier for transgender and gender diverse people because it leads to longer conversations and asks them to educate people.
HelpingMinds® welcomes and encourages team members from diverse backgrounds to participate in the development of HelpingMinds® documentation including policies/procedures, external promotional materials and service planning. In demonstration of our commitment to diversity, HelpingMinds® has instated a First Nations Reference Group and will continue to explore opportunities for external cultural inclusiveness.
