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SEDDON TAKES DRAMATIC APPROACH TO DIVERSITY
Staff from construction company Seddon Group have experienced some drama recently, but thankfully it was part of the company?s new approach to diversity training, which covered issues such as religious differences, race and sexuality and how they should be managed in the workplace.
Over 250 employees from G&J Seddon, part of the Group?s construction services section, took part in the diversity training sessions. The sessions delivered by training organisation, Afta Thought, were developed specifically for Seddon, which is one of the first companies in the construction industry to take such an innovative approach to training its staff. Each session was designed to be deliberately thought-provoking to promote discussion to help employees understand the new policy and procedures Seddon has introduced in connection with cultural differences.
Nicola Hodkinson, Head of Diversity at G & J Seddon, explained: ?As well as our staff working with a diverse range of cultures, races and backgrounds out in the community, they are a varied group of people themselves, so it was essential for us to offer a training package that really brought the issues to life, rather than dry, classroom-based learning or a manual that would just gather dust on a shelf.?
The scenes acted focused on dealing with racist language, sexual harassment, cultural differences and sexuality. Staff were encouraged to take part in debates and ask questions of the actors playing each role.
Mary Austin, facilitator from Afta Thought, commented: ?Our role is not to change people?s opinions, as they will always come from an individual?s background, upbringing and experiences, but what we do aim to illustrate is that behaviour or language can be racist, sexist or homophobic if another person considers it to be. We aim to challenge thinking and change behaviour, not people and their beliefs.?
Seddon Group carry out a wide range of work within the social housing sector including maintenance, refurbishment and new build developments throughout the country for a variety of social housing providers.
Cheryl Buckley, a Site Manager with G&J Seddon who took part in the sessions, commented: ? The actors and scenes really brought some of the issues to life and have really made me think differently about certain things I would say and do at work. As Mary from Afta Thought said within the sessions, everyone has their own opinions but this training has really helped us to understand how our behaviour can affect others.?
Rod Sellers, Chairman of Seddon Group commented: ?We are delighted with the response to the training sessions and it?s very rare that a training course will get people talking and thinking in this way. As we work with more and more diverse communities it is essential that our staff are equipped with the knowledge of these different ways of life, and that we are not afraid to address important issues in the workplace.?
Chris Mather, Programme Director, plus dane group, commented ?It is really good to see that our Framework contractors are dedicating time to important issues like diversity in the workplace and everyday life and it shows a common commitment to our shared values and business priorities.?