Positive About Inclusion’s ninth Inclusion Forum North East took place on 20th November 2025. It was perfect timing that the event was held on Social Enterprise Day because the hosting of these free Forum events is part of Positive About Inclusion’s commitment to ‘giving back’ as a Community Interest Company.
Our 9th event focussed on EDI Comms & Campaigns. Lucy and Karen were kindly welcomed by the fantastic team at the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service’s headquarters in Washington, Sunderland and we were joined by representatives from organisations working across the North East.
Using our tried and tested formula to get everyone collaborating and networking the event started with an ice breaking activity designed to help the group to know a little more about each other. We then explored effective internal comms and campaign strategies to get everyone’s commitment to the EDI agenda and we discussed the importance of language, consistency and narration:
- Language – Thinking about the language that works for your organisation is time well spent because getting it right is the Ronseal principle – it’s doing exactly what it says on the tin. A starting point is to consider the ‘why’, why EDI matters for your business. If it’s about living your values, then use language from your values to be clear about this. If the why for your business is about your people – your colleagues (so they feel a sense of belonging) or your customers (to deliver customer care at the Nth degree) then again use this as a basis for articulating your approach.
- Consistency – Builds recognition, establishes trust, credibility and fosters greater understanding and recall. The more we all see something then we remember it, we recognise it and we believe it. Consult with colleagues to develop an approach that will work consistently across all areas of your business.
- Narration – story telling is super powerful, people are significantly more likely to remember a message when it’s wrapped in a story than when presented with dry facts and statistics alone. Narrate the journey, share progress and use stories to keep the momentum and belief alive.
We were then joined by Michael Halpin from the digital inclusion specialists Recite Me who shared valuable insights on the range of ways to make digital inclusion more accessible and attendees spent some time considering key takeaways and their organisational challenges.
The session ended with further time for networking and the opportunity to enjoy some early Positive About Inclusion birthday cake.
“Thank you, it was a great session today with lots of good takeaways. Looking forward to the next one.”
Rachel Ford, Wellbeing and Belonging Manager, Square One Law
The next Inclusion Forum North East event will take place in February 2026, new members are always very welcome. To be added to the mailing list, please Contact Us.
