Why is Inclusion, Diversity and Equality so important to Oasis?

Context and Background

A passion for inclusion sits at the heart of the Oasis vision and is fundamental as to why Oasis exists. Underpinned by the core belief that whilst we are all different, we are equal and all have great worth, dignity, and potential, Oasis’ work focuses on community and belonging. Our ethos is a statement of who we are and it is an expression of our character. Rooted in the story and beliefs of Oasis, we describe our ethos through a particular set of values that inform and provide the lens for everything we do.

·       A passion to include

·       A desire to treat people equally respecting differences

·       A commitment to healthy, open relationships

·       A deep sense of hope that things can change and be transformed

·       A sense of perseverance to keep going for the long haul

It is these ethos values that we want to be known for and truly live by. They are the organisational values we aspire to. We are committed to a model of inclusion, equality, healthy relationships, hope, and perseverance, throughout all aspects of the life and culture of Oasis.

We know that whilst diversity is a fact (and is simply differences between people), inclusion is a choice that enables individuals to make a difference, through the cultivation of a sense of belonging. Inclusion is also a process that is dynamic, all of us can feel included in relation to some aspects of our identity, whilst excluded on other aspects. We know that belonging is a state we feel at any given time, directly as a result of an absence or presence of inclusive action.

We all long to belong. With a passion for inclusion being the basis for our work, we now refer to Inclusion, Diversity and Equality (IDE) rather than EDI, as a conscious effort to subtly make this point. Foundational to Oasis’ existence is creating communities where everybody feels like they belong. Inclusion is relevant to everybody. It is at the centre of what it means to be human.

The Journey

Over recent years, the IDE Steering Group has overseen the development of IDE initiatives within Oasis, including the establishment of three staff networks, each with paid leadership. A greater gathering and sharing of data to inform decision making has also been developed. Oasis was awarded the Inclusivity Award at this year’s MAT Excellence Awards and whilst this is indicative of positive progress, we remain restless for further change and know that there is much more to be done.

Initiatives

Our staff EDI Survey in 2022 highlighted a desire for greater diversity in our staffing and leadership teams. This, in part, acted as a stimulus for the creation of staff networks and has driven a variety of work. Overall, staffing figures are now shared regularly at Board meetings. We know, for example, that Oasis Education is more diverse in terms of ethnicity than the sector as a whole, but not as diverse as the communities which we serve. It is integral to the mission of Oasis that we truly and authentically represent these communities. Ethnic and gender diversity have increased over the past two years in our leadership teams but there is a long way to go before this reflects the communities we serve.

A wide array of work happens every day across Oasis to create inclusion. In addition, there are several initiatives which are often suggested and led by our staff and their networks. In October 2023, we led our first recognition of World Menopause Awareness week. We are currently celebrating HisStory with a focus on men and boys led by our Gender Equality Network. These are all microcosms of the way in which we are aiming to ensure our passion to include is realised.

Our LGBTQ+ and Allies network has been extremely active in creating Anti-Homophobia resources that were published and available to all our academies, providing them with the skills and tools to be able to tackle issues relating to Trans and Homophobic abuse. We have now been present in three different Pride marches, proudly walking on behalf of Oasis, to ensure that our commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion is evident in the public eye

Our Break The Cycle network has also continued to spearhead our commitment to racial inclusion and equality within Oasis. During July, South Asian Heritage Month brought with it vibrant and exciting celebrations of ethnicity, faith and culture.

Could you help us take the next steps?

We have now planned a number of strategic actions to further drive inclusion and a sense of belonging across Oasis. Central to this are more consistent means of gathering and sharing the voices of our communities (of staff, students, volunteers etc) and feeding this into decision-making and reporting. In order to enhance capacity, we are creating this new role of the IDE Lead. This exciting post, which will work across Oasis, will bring expert knowledge and capacity to our work and will also support and enable our staff networks and leaders on the ground.

The IDE Lead will not only coordinate strategic IDE initiatives but will also act as a liaison between central leadership and our teams, ensuring that best practices are shared and implemented consistently. This role will report directly to the Executive, ensuring that IDE remains a top priority in decision-making processes.

This is an exciting post that we warmly invite prospective candidates to find out more about, by booking a call with Paul Tarry, our Director of Organisation Development and Co-Chair of the IDE Steering Group. To book a call with Paul, please email Auriel Simmonds at: auriel.simmonds@oasisuk.org.

We look forward to hearing from you!