Jon Davies, CEO Levy and Executive Sponsor of our Ability Network

Today we celebrate two important milestones: the Ability Network’s 3rd birthday and International Day of Persons with Disabilities. While it’s a moment to reflect on our progress, we know there’s still more to do to improve the workplace for disabled people and to create a truly inclusive workplace.

Living with a disability, whether visible or hidden, brings unique challenges - but also incredible strengths. Inclusion starts with listening and understanding. Each of us has a role to play in removing barriers and our Ability network is all about helping our people do this!

Together, we continue to efforts our workplace being a place where everyone feels respected and valued. Our mission is simple: to build disability confidence from the inside out. By “paying it forward,” we help those who come behind us. 

To spark conversations, our teams are sharing an insightful short video from Aaron Phipps MBE - Disability Employment Ambassador for Levy and Paralympic gold medallist - who speaks candidly about everyday challenges he experiences and why it’s ok for people to ask if someone might need help. 

In addition, to mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I took part in a Fireside Chat with Kate Nash OBE (Purple Space), exploring what true disability inclusion looks like and how we can make the workplace better for all.

To raise awareness around this important work, we also held an interactive session with our Ability Leads and Sophie Smith, Chief People Officer and Executive Sponsor for our Within Network, discussing what more we can all do – not just in Compass, but within our wider society.

To continue our momentum we’re also promoting some helpful guides - from accessibility tips for Microsoft Teams and Outlook to conversation starters like “What makes you YOU?” This is to encourage people to share stories with others and celebrate individuality. Curiosity and empathy really do help break down barriers.

I would like to say a big thank you to our Ability Employee Network, who lead of all this brilliant work. In three years we have done a lot - your continued support in creating an inclusive workplace for everyone is invaluable.