5 January 2024
During November 2023 the Tapestry Network has been on site in various locations across the region raising awareness and promoting the benefits of the Network.
As well as corporate communications and posters, information and merchandise stands were set up and information shared over 6 half days in November.
Over 200 staff engaged with the promotion and shared their experiences.
What did staff have to say?
| Flexible Working policies | “Flexible working policies should be clearly articulated and communicated to all staff and managers. Tapestry members welcome the opportunity to give their input into the review of these policies” |
| Line Manager Awareness and Training | “Line managers should be trained in how to support staff with disabilities and those who are carers, including the need to provide Reasonable Adjustments” |
| Hybrid Working | Overall staff welcome Hybrid Working, some staff feel that the policy should be more flexible for staff who have disabilities or are carers |
| Accessibility of systems | Some of our systems are not compatible with assistive technology such as screen reading software |
As a result of the recent promotion, membership has grown by 60% and attendance at meetings has increased significantly in the last year.
Not all members attend meetings. Some are members by requesting to be added to our mailing list. These members receive information on the work of the network and can engage through information sharing, surveys etc.
Pictured above (left to right): Tapestry Secretary, Katherine Quinn and Tapestry Chair, Karen Hunter
Tapestry would like to extend a warm welcome to all staff with an interest in disability to come along to one of the meetings – details below. You can either just show up, or if you would like further information please visit the Tapestry website: http://tapestry.hscni.net or email tapestry.network@hscni.net.
Tapestry aims to make a real difference for staff who have a disability and those who care for someone with a disability, by raising awareness of disability issues and making recommendations on relevant policies. The network also acts as a contact point for staff with a disability or who care for someone with a disability, providing a safe space and informal peer support and information.
Meetings are held on a quarterly basis with a sign language (BSL) interpreter present at all meetings.