The magic of a community of practice: celebrating EDI Connect on ‘Staff and Colleague Networks Day’

On Staff and Colleague Networks Day, we’re taking a moment to celebrate something we’re really proud of at Tai Pawb: EDI Connect.

Launched in 2023 (and going strong ever since), EDI Connect has become one of those spaces people don’t quite realise they need… until they join and wonder how they managed without it.

So, what is EDI Connect really about?

At its simplest, it is a space for people working in housing across Wales to come together and talk about equality, diversity and inclusion.

But in reality, it is much more than that.

It is a place where you can:

• Ask the question you were not quite sure how to phrase in a formal meeting
• Share something that worked brilliantly… or something that absolutely did not
• Have honest conversations about complex and sometimes uncomfortable topics
• Leave a session feeling just that little bit more confident than when you joined

And sometimes, it is also a space where someone says “we tried that too” and you can feel immediate relief that it is not just you.

Built by members, for members

EDI Connect exists because our members told us they needed it. They wanted a safe, informal space to connect with others in similar roles, share good practice and get support.

Since 2023, the network has grown steadily, with more organisations and colleagues joining in. The conversations have expanded, the relationships have strengthened and the sense of community has become one of its biggest strengths.

We regularly hear how much people value the space. Not just for the learning, but for the reassurance, the encouragement and the chance to connect with others who genuinely understand the work.

The magic of a community of practice

If you have ever been the person in your organisation leading on EDI, you will know it can sometimes feel like you are carrying a lot on your own.

That is where EDI Connect really comes into its own.

It is a community of practice in the truest sense. A space where:

• Everyone brings something to the table
• No one is expected to know everything
• Learning is shared, not delivered
• Support and challenge go hand in hand

One week you might come with a question. The next, you might be the one offering an idea that helps someone else move forward.

That balance is what makes it work.

Conversations that matter (and occasionally make you rethink everything)

Our sessions regularly include discussion on key sector issues like the Anti Racist Wales Action Plan and other priorities identified by members.

These are not tick box conversations. They are real, thoughtful discussions where people share experiences, question assumptions and explore how to turn commitments into action.

There are moments of reflection, moments of challenge and, occasionally, those lightbulb moments where you scribble something down quickly because you know you are taking it straight back to your organisation.

A space where people feel safe to be honest

One of the things we hear most often is how important the tone of the network is.

People feel able to speak openly. They know they will be treated with respect. They know confidentiality will be honoured when needed.

That matters, especially in EDI work where conversations can be sensitive, personal and, at times, difficult.

The network holds that space carefully, and it is a big part of why it works so well.

A big thank you to our Chairs

No network like this thrives without strong, thoughtful leadership.

We want to say a huge thank you to Jan Bell from United Welsh, who chaired the network in its early days and helped shape it into what it is today. And Dr Mena Fombo as our current Chair, bringing energy, insight and continued direction as the network grows.

Looking ahead

For the 2026 to 2027 membership year, we are delighted to be continuing EDI Connect for our members.

The network will keep meeting quarterly, continuing to offer that all important space to connect, learn and support one another.

And we will keep listening. Because EDI Connect is not something we “run” on our own. It is something we build together with our members.

A final thank you

On Staff and Colleague Networks Day, we want to say thank you to everyone who has been part of EDI Connect so far.

For showing up.
For sharing openly.
For supporting each other.
And for being honest about both the progress and the challenges.

You are what makes this network what it is.

And yes, we really do enjoy every single session.

Vicki