TESYouth is a not for profit organisation offering training and learning opportunities for young people. In an increasingly diverse world, many of these students come from different backgrounds or have needs and disabilities that should be included in these programmes. All young people should have the opportunity to learn and grow as individuals regardless of their differences
So how can organisations like TESYouth be inclusive to all?
One way to achieve this is by offering support. Organisations like TESYouth can be inclusive to all by ensuring that everyone has access to the resources they need. This can range from larger fonts on computer screens to facilities for people with disabilities. This can also include providing training opportunities where information can be learnt at different paces for different people. By providing these methods of support, organisations like TESYouth enable everyone in the company to reach their full potential.
Another way to achieve this is by creating an inclusive environment. Mental health affects a large number of people, so reducing anxiety in a workplace environment is important. This can be achieved with soft furnishings and colourful comforting rooms. Additionally, this could be done by creating small spaces away from work desks so people can take a break if they need to and also create a less nervous meeting space away from office rooms. In this way, by providing the right environment, companies can be more inclusive to everyone.
Organisations like TESYouth can be more inclusive with the language they use. This can be in small simple ways such as making sure to use the right pronouns. It can also be achieved by using more general greetings in team meetings to ensure everyone is included regardless of their gender.
Another way to do this is to make sure that everyone feels included regardless of their differences. This can be done by placing them with approachable colleagues who are friendly and supportive. This will help them feel like they are included as part of the team. Organisations could also ensure their employees have read and followed company procedures about inclusivity so they can understand and treat employees with respect as they would do to anyone else Additionally, companies should invite these employees to meetings and events and encourage them to share their ideas. In doing so, it will make them feel like their voice is valued and respected and part of the team. In this way, companies like TESYouth can ensure that they are inclusive to all.
It is clear to see that by implementing these measures, organisations like TESYouth can be inclusive to all.
Article written by Sarah Oakes and graphics by Nerissa Alfonso
