Please note that workshop bookings are subject to actor availability. We will inform you of any availability challenges within 3 working days.

This workshop is designed to empower managers to become confident sponsors for equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). Participants will dismantle stereotypes, understand unconscious bias, learn about the legal frameworks, and gain practical tools to challenge exclusionary language and behaviours. The emphasis is on the crucial role managers play as drivers of change, leading by example to effect lasting impact. 

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this workshop, participants will:

• Identify their personal motivations for championing EDI and understand its importance. 
• Gain knowledge of relevant legislation and implications in the workplace. 
• Recognise the impact of assumptions, biases, and stereotypes, and pledge to address these barriers. 
• Distinguish between banter, bullying, harassment, and discrimination, and learn to challenge effectively. 
• Understand micro-behaviours and learn to use micro-affirmations to counteract negative behaviours. 
• Develop strategies to consistently promote and model inclusive behaviour. 
• Commit to incorporating inclusive practices into their team’s goals and strategies. 

Workshop Outline

Advocating for EDI: Managers will explore their motivations for promoting equality and inclusion, reflecting on how these values create a productive and positive workplace. A video examining common assumptions will serve as a discussion starter.

Legal Frameworks and Beyond: This session will cover key aspects of equality law relevant to the workplace. Managers will also explore the business case for diversity and inclusion, understanding how these elements contribute to organisational success and innovation. 

ACTION – Addressing Unconscious Bias: Managers will observe a realistic scenario performed by actors, illustrating how assumptions can derail conversations and lead to misunderstandings. This immersive experience will provide a valuable learning opportunity, prompting participants to explore the characters’ motivations and feelings, encouraging thoughtful discussion and perspective-taking. The focus will be on challenging their own assumptions and those observed in others. 

Understanding Banter vs. Bullying: Through an interactive quiz called “Fine Lines,” participants will refine their ability to differentiate between acceptable behaviour and inappropriate conduct, distinguishing between discrimination, harassment, bullying, and banter. 

ACTION – Courageous Conversations: The “Wait a SEC” framework will be introduced to help managers handle difficult conversations constructively. They will observe a scenario where the dialogue initially goes off track, and they will be invited to intervene, applying their new skills to steer the conversation towards a more positive outcome. By exploring assertive communication, emotional intelligence, boundary setting, perspective-taking, and inquiry techniques, they’ll identify practical actions to include in their personalised action plans. 

Commitment to EDI: The workshop will conclude with participants honing their action plans to integrate inclusive practices into their team’s goals and strategies. They will make a commitment to applying their learning, ensuring that EDI principles are embedded in their management approach. These action plans can be shared with project sponsors for further development.