Living Black at University Commission Report 2022/23 Living Black at University Commission Report 2022/23 Developing a business case for change requires a change in approach. Aligning your 昀椀nancial requirements with the moral case for DEI and giving them both an equal weighting in importance ensures that inclusion isn’t left behind. So, with that in mind, here are some things to consider: 1 People: students, applicants, employees 5 Sustainable futures: Think about what and your local community: The best, impact your organisation wants to leave brightest and most loyal know what on the world. Most organisations have a they want and what they are looking for. sustainability strategy by now and the good How does inclusion improve your ability ones include environmental and governance to attract and retain them? How can it factors that promote sustainable operations encourage them to invest in their future and impact. However, the ‘S’ – ‘social’ – in ESG with your organisation? seems to be the bit that everyone struggles Value alignment: Aligning what you say with with. DEI is the foundation of great social 2 what you do is a true mark of authenticity and sustainability: increasing representation, helps to build trust with stakeholders. Ensuring supporting those who are marginalised your values align to the people you engage and providing equitable opportunities will with – or want to engage with – can be a regular help to create a better future for both your reminder to keep the pace on your journey organisation and wider society. towards greater belonging. 6 Check yourself: No one person has all the Understand the commercial (risk answers, so keep learning and keep checking 3 and value): Inclusion work is not a direct in. Look around the room, bring in those revenue generator, but if you do it, you will with lived experience (and pay them!) and become more successful. There is plenty use advisory groups and consultants. Keep of research that shows that diversity and up-to-date with contextual research. Make inclusion is good for business. data-informed decisions; don’t just rely on anecdotal stories or one (usually loud) voice. 4 Golden thread: Innovation and creativity Determination and resilience: DEI work is is bred in cultures that put e昀昀ort into 7 hard and making mistakes is inevitable. An belonging. True inclusion is not a standalone strategy but a pillar in every strategy within ability to dust yourself o昀昀 and try again is key. your organisation, all the way to the top. You have to keep pushing forward, even when it’s tough or it feels like you’re not making much progress – because you are having more impact than you think. Even if it’s just for one person, you are making a di昀昀erence. 44 45