When organisations talk about inclusion, one word often comes up: belonging.
It’s an important concept, but it can also be difficult to define. What does belonging actually feel like in practice?
For me, belonging is about more than simply being welcomed into an organisation. It is the feeling that you can be yourself without having to leave parts of your identity at the door. It is knowing that your perspective is valued, your voice is heard and your contribution matters.
At Blake Morgan, we recognise that colleagues come from a rich variety of ethnic, cultural and faith backgrounds. Those differences bring new perspectives, fresh ideas and a greater understanding of the communities and clients we serve. Creating an environment where people feel they belong is not only the right thing to do, it helps us become a better and more successful business.
One of the questions I often reflect on as Ethnicity & Belief Champion is: how do we know whether people truly feel included?
The answer is usually found in the everyday moments.
It is when a colleague feels comfortable sharing an aspect of their culture or heritage. It is when someone feels confident discussing a religious observance with their team. It is when people know they can contribute ideas, challenge perspectives and be respected for who they are.
Perhaps most importantly, it is when colleagues feel they do not need to fit a particular mould to succeed.
For some people, it is seeing their experiences reflected in others. For some, it is having role models they can relate to. For others, it is simply knowing that they can have open and honest conversations without feeling judged.
There is no single solution that creates belonging. Instead, it is built gradually through listening, learning and creating a culture where people feel respected and valued.
That is why our approach focuses not only on awareness raising, but also on colleague voice. We want to understand the experiences of our people, identify where we are making progress and recognise where there is still work to do. Creating opportunities for colleagues to be heard remains a central part of our Ethnicity & Belief strategy.
For anyone considering a career with Blake Morgan, I believe belonging is one of the most important things we can offer. People perform at their best when they feel comfortable being themselves. They are more likely to contribute ideas, develop their careers and build strong relationships with colleagues and clients alike.
We know that creating an inclusive workplace is an ongoing journey rather than a destination. However, through our commitment to listening, learning and celebrating the diversity of our people, we are working to create an environment where everyone feels they belong and has the opportunity to thrive.
