Polly and Deehan

Here’s a roundup of some of the ways you can get involved with our Race Equality Network (REN), whether it’s by popping along to a new Coffee and Conversation chat with our chairs, or by attending a quarterly meeting.

Coffee and Conversation: New REN drop-in sessions

Throughout 2026, your REN chairs Polly and Dee (pictured) are hosting relaxed drop-in sessions for all colleagues. These are safe, welcoming spaces where you can share ideas or raise concerns, catch up with the chairs or ask questions or get support.

Whether you want to talk about equality, diversity, inclusion, your future at CHFT, or just have a friendly chat – they'd love to see you! The first session is this coming Friday, 23rd January 2026, between 10:00 and 14:00 in Acre Mills top floor, Room 4.

Remaining dates (drop in at any time between 10:00 and 14:00):

  • Friday, 27th February, HRI Sub Basement, Hub 2
  • Wednesday, 15th April, HRI Sub Basement, Hub 2
  • Friday, 22nd May, CRH Learning Centre, Room 5
  • Friday, 17th July, Acre Mills, Room 4
  • Friday, 9th October, Acre Mills, Room 4
  • Wednesday, 4th November, Acre Mills, Room 4

REN Meetings – Join the conversation with a new meeting format designed around your feedback

Your voice matters in shaping our network and driving positive change. Join us at our quarterly REN meetings:

  • 10 Mar – Online (MS Teams) | 12:00 - 13:00
  • 09 Jun – Forum Room 1B | 12:00 - 13:00
  • 08 Sep – Forum Room 1B | 12:00 - 13:00
  • 08 Dec – Forum Room 1B | 12:00 - 13:00

To make meetings more inclusive and meaningful, we’re introducing a two-part structure:

  • Part 1: Topic discussion: We’ll start with a focused topic – sharing updates, exploring key issues, and working together on solutions.
  • Part 2: Safe space conversation: After the topic, allies will step out so colleagues can raise concerns or discuss sensitive matters in confidence.

This approach reflects your feedback and shows our commitment to fairness, transparency, and open dialogue.

Polly and Dee would love to see you – even if it’s just for a quick hello! Your voice really makes a difference. It’s your voice and your network.

For more information please email raceequalitynetwork@cht.nhs.uk