7. Peer support groups
Oldham Council offers peer support groups where employees from all backgrounds can share experiences and support each other.
These groups are a great way to:
- Connect with others
- Boost your wellbeing
- Feel part of a community
If you don’t see a group that meets your needs, you’re welcome to start your own. Just contact the Organisational Development Team at organisationaldevelopmentteam@oldham.gov.uk – they’ll help you promote the group and include you in regular meet-ups with other group leads.
You can also find helpful resources in the ‘Being Inclusive’ section of the Personal Development Toolkit.
Existing support groups
Women’s group
The council’s women’s group is a supportive space for women to come together, connect and share their experiences with each other on a range of topics.
It also provides the opportunity for women to discuss real changes that can be made to make the workplace a more supportive environment where women can thrive.
Neurodiversity Peer Support Group
Are you a neurodivergent colleague looking for a supportive space to connect with others who just get it? Our Neurodiversity Peer Support Group is here for you.
Whether you're autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, or identify with any other form of neurodivergence, the group is a safe and welcoming space to share experiences, exchange tips, and celebrate strengths.
Join in to build connections, boost wellbeing, and champion neurodiversity in our workplace. Allies welcome too!
LGBT+ group
If you’d like to connect with colleagues who support and celebrate the LGBT+ community throughout the year, we’d love you to join the LGBT+ Staff Network. The network is an excellent place to:
Meet like-minded peers, allies, and advocates
- Share resources and ideas to promote inclusivity
- Help shape council policies and events that represent everyone
Race Equity Group
The Race Equity Group has been established to bring together colleagues to discuss racial equality, diversity and inclusion within the council and how this might be improved.
It is a way for employees to share experiences, socialise and discuss any concerns or issues they are experiencing to bring about change.
Apprentices’ support group
If you’re starting an apprenticeship, in the middle of one, or have completed one why not consider joining the Apprentices’ support group.
The aim of the group is to support each other, pass on tips and advice and celebrate achievements because they definitely deserve celebrating.
Young People’s Network
If you’re aged between 16 – 30 and want to connect with colleagues your age why not join the Young People’s Network?
This is a supportive space for young people to come together, share their experiences, socialise and make changes to the organisation.
Disability Group
If you are disabled and looking to connect with other disabled colleagues, the Disability Group could be for you.
This group is a safe and supportive space to share experiences, connect, uplift one another and discuss how the council can become more disability-friendly.
Children’s Social Work Affinity groups
If you work within Children’s Social Work there are various affinity groups you can join. They are a space for individuals with shared characteristics or common interests to meet on a regular basis and offer support and guidance to each other.
These are:
- ADHD Affinity Group
- Dyslexia Affinity Group
Race Equality and Assurance Group – Adults Social Care
The Race Equality and Assurance Group (REAG) has been established to address issues related to racial equality, diversity, and inclusion within Adults Social Care.
This group discusses the impact of racial biases on individuals and the organisation. It also reviews existing policies and practices to ensure they promote equality, diversity and inclusion, and request the development of new policies as needed.
It is a platform for employees to share their experiences and concerns related to racial equality, and advocate for necessary changes.
Setting up and joining groups
If you would like to join or set up your own Peer Support Group please email the Organisational Development Team: