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Delegates at Riverbank women’s conference

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where people are respected and valued for the diversity they bring.’

LISTENING SPACES

The RIWG is also exploring and developing the use of Listening Spaces, which will be safe environments with trained facilitators where people can share their thoughts, lived experiences and concerns, so that these can lead to positive transformation and change.

The survey responses will help to determine what level of need or demand there is for such spaces and, if there is interest, they will provide another avenue for voices to be heard.

‘It’s not about saying “we think you need this”,’ explains Personnel Officer Major Beverly Baker (THQ). ‘This is about trying to facilitate a safe space for people who want the opportunity to

WHO CAN BE AN INCLUSION MISSION ADVOCATE?

Inclusion mission advocates will need a good appreciation of issues that relate to race, difference, inclusion, access and diversity, either from lived experience or personal interest. It is not a standalone role and will include working with other advocates to ensure that learning is shared. For more information, email racial.inclusion@salvationarmy.org.uk

process out loud and be able to share something of their experience. Hopefully we will be able to collect themes and stories and experiences that can speak into the change that needs to happen.’

From 30 September to 2 October at King’s Park Conference Centre, Intercultural Mission Enabler Major Jonny Smith is leading an Intercultural Conference with guest speakers and worship leaders, and people from all parts of the territory who represent numerous backgrounds and cultures. There will be Listening Spaces available

NeXus Youth Chorus perform at Together 2022

to people who attend, if they want to use them, which will be the first time they have been tried in practice.

‘The spaces will also be confidential,’ Major Beverly adds, ‘because we want them to be a safe space. If group members agree together that the anonymised themes that emerge can be shared with the RIWG, then this can contribute towards the change required.’

To attend the Intercultural Conference, speak to your corps officer, who will have received application details.

WELCOME AND BELONGING VIDEO

In addition to all this the RIWG hopes to introduce a Welcome and Belonging video in the next few months for use around the territory. The group is looking for people from different ethnic backgrounds and cultures who would be willing to tell their stories of how they may or may not have found a welcome and belonging at The Salvation Army. These stories can be made anonymous if requested.

If you are interested in being involved in this project or have any other ideas or suggestions, email the racial inclusion maildrop at racial.inclusion@ salvationarmy.org.uk.