The Trust is proud to have a number of networks, which work towards making the organisation an even more diverse and inclusive place and also allow staff to develop and find a shared consensus of belonging.
LGBT+ Network
The LGBT+ Network is the West Midlands Ambulance Service Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Trans Network. The network supports any staff who identify as being LGBT+ and encourages staff to be their authentic selves.
Chairperson: Ash Deakins
HR Manager Buddy: Louise Jones
Executive Sponsor: Karen Rutter
ONE Network
The ONE Network is the identifying name for the West Midlands Ambulance Service Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) support group for all staff who identify from this background including allies who are supportive of the aims of this network.
Chairperson(s): Karina Graham & Keeling Hutton
HR Manager Buddy: Chaz Dheensa
Executive Sponsor: Jeremy Brown
Women’s Network
The Women’s Network aims to ensure that staff who identify as women, and advocates of women, feel supported as well as providing support and inspiration to others as well as an opportunity to learn from each other and network.
Chair person(s): Rebecca Godfrey & Sonia Bhattle
HR Manager Buddy: Eleanor Huddleston
Executive Sponsor: Michelle Brotherton
If you would like to find out more about what the Trust Women’s Network have been up to in 2023, you can do so here: WMAS Women’s Network in 2023.
Disability, Carers and Advocates Network
The Disability, Carers and Advocates Network (DCA) aims to promote a disability positive environment for all staff who are disabled and provide mutual support for staff with disabilities which are hidden or apparent, and also those who have carer responsibilities.
Chairperson: John Eames
HR Manager Buddy: Stephanie Simister
Executive Sponsor: Nathan Hudson
Military Network
The Trust Military Network is open to all and not just limited to those who serve or have served encourages anyone who wants to be involved whether they have friends or family in the military, parents, grandparents or children who have served or just an interest in the armed forces and coming together as a network.
Chairperson: Tim Atherton
HR Manager Buddy: Rachel Bishop
Executive Sponsor: Murray MacGregor
Student Network
The Student Network is aimed at external and internal students, learners and apprentices and will sit alongside the five other existing networks. It will be run by the students and apprentices and provide a safe space to chat through issues. It will provide an opportunity for peer support for individuals who may be facing challenge in the learning environment or their studies.
Chairperson: Hayden Emmett-Bird & Raul Anton Gutierrez
HR Manager Buddy: Suman Bhambra-Thompson
Executive Sponsor: Nick Henry