WWe are aware that the tragic killing of George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement has provided an opportunity for the sector to hold a mirror up to itself and that we now have a once in a lifetime opportunity to make changes that could lead to lasting change.

During this period, we have been approached by many organisations keen to align themselves with UNIFY and seek advice. This has showed recognition for the work we are doing but more importantly increased our allyships to continue the momentum and move the agenda for diversity and inclusion forward.

UNIFY as the Cross-Housing BAME Network is made up of a number of national BAME staff groups who have formed a larger network to focus on career development, networking, mentoring and cultural celebration. Our overarching goal is to increase inclusion opportunities at all levels, ensuring the diversity of staff is reflected across the breadth of organisations within the sector. Our members represent staff at all levels within their organisations and so UNIFY is best placed to speak to the current issues. We are writing to you because your organisation is a valued part of UNIFY.

We want to continue the great work we are doing as the landscape can only change if we are at the table taking part in the conversations and decision-making together. We know that there are a lot of initiatives being rolled out and others are wondering what their response should be beyond the positive messages being shared.

We have put together some helpful tips to assist organisations during this time. We hope that these insights will be helpful in starting, continuing, or enriching the work that you may already be doing. We also encourage you to continue to support the efforts of your BAME network as they work alongside UNIFY to deliver our key objectives to:

• Share information, insight, and good practice about the sector
• Encourage visibility of ethnicity data to inform initiatives and underpin decision making
• Hold cross-sector BAME networking events
• Promote initiatives aimed at improving opportunities for BAME staff
• Increase BAME senior management opportunities through supportive cross-housing BAME mentoring and coaching
• Influence and encourage sector leaders

We look forward to working with you to make the changes needed to improve BAME representation at all levels within the sector and increasing the diversity of thought needed to deliver successful businesses.

Yours Sincerely