Frances Fenton appointed as our BAME Staff Network Lead! | News and Events

Frances Fenton appointed as our BAME Staff Network Lead!

In celebration of Black History Month, taking place throughout October 2021, we are thrilled to announce that Frances Fenton has recently been appointed as our BAME Staff Network Lead. Following this new appointment, we would also like to say a huge thank you to Tracy Tsikai for her hard work and dedication to the BAME Staff Network this far!

The BAME Staff Network empowers our Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic staff members to achieve their potential by creating positive change. The network is a source of support for new and existing BAME employees on career pathways and development opportunities in GMMH. The network also assists GMMH with meeting its strategic objectives to improve patient and staff experience by utilising the skills and resources of its Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic employees, therefore adding value to the organisation. 

Speaking about Frances’ appointment, our Chief Executive, Neil Thwaite, said:

“I’m really pleased to hear that Frances Fenton has been appointed to the role of BAME Staff Network Lead. I know she will be excellent in this position, bringing her previous experience as a union representative to help with shaping the future direction of the BAME Staff Network.

“I look forward to continuing to support the work of the BAME Staff Network and working directly with Frances in her new role as the BAME Network Lead.”

Find out more about our new BAME Staff Network Lead in our interview below.

Remember to keep an eye out about how to get involved in the events and celebrations taking place throughout Black History Month by using the hashtag #BlackHistoryMonth on Twitter!

 

Could you tell us a bit about yourself and your role at GMMH?

I have worked at GMMH for over 23 years in various roles, including working on our acute wards and as an STR Worker in our Early Intervention Team in Trafford. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, my role has changed, and I am now supporting service users and Care Coordinators by providing support around housing and benefits. I have also been a staff-side representative for the last 17 years and am a Freedom to Speak Up Ambassador.

Last year, I co-wrote our Hate Crime Protocol, as I was upset about how our BAME members of staff were being treated on Trust Premises. The protocol sets out our strategy to tackle hate crime by challenging it, reporting it, and stopping it. We are committed to a zero-tolerance policy on hate crime. You can do your part to stop Hate Crime, by reporting any incidents to your local Police here.

This week is National Hate Crime Awareness Week 2021 from 9 – 16 October. The week aims to bring people together to stand in solidarity with those affected by hate crime, to remember those we have lost, and support those who need ongoing support. #NoPlaceForHate. Find out more here.

 

​​​​​​​Why did you apply to be our BAME Staff Network Lead?

I applied to be BAME Staff Network Lead as I want to make a change for everyone in the Trust, and in particular, our BAME staff members, by removing barriers and ensuring every member of staff is inclusive. We have such talent across our BAME employees and we need to plug into this – they have a voice as much as everyone else working at the Trust. As BAME Staff Network Lead, I can be a champion for our Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic members of staff.

 

What does the BAME Staff Network mean to you?

The BAME Staff Network gives our Black, Asian, Minority Ethic staff a voice and the tools to speak up and challenge decision makers to effect change. The aims of the network are positive for our Trust strategies, as we want this to be an inclusive place to work, by supporting progression and development for all, as well as making our Trust premises a safe place, without Hate Crime.

 

What are your objectives and goals as BAME Staff Network Lead?

Our BAME Staff Network has outlined several priorities, which include: increasing awareness in the organisation about BAME-related issues; improving representation in junior, middle and senior leadership by at least 10%; and working through the network’s 3-year action plan. 

In addition to our BAME Staff Network priorities, I also want to:

  • Encourage more people to take part in our hate crime awareness training, as well as senior staff members to help everyone understand how to deal with racial abuse and how to support someone who experiences this.
  • Support BAME staff development by securing places on courses for BAME staff members at lower band levels to support their progression.
  • Look at recruitment and promotion within the Trust to see how we can make our interview panels more diverse.

 

Find out more about our BAME Staff Network here.

As a patient

As a service user, relative or carer using our services, sometimes you may need to turn to someone for help, advice, and support. 

Find resources for carers and service users  Contact the Trust

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