The aim of this page is to provide you with information about how the RAF prioritises diversity and inclusion – including the RAF Diversity and Inclusion Directive, RAF networks and action groups. In addition, we have included some specific information for LGBTQ+ families and support services for our young people.

Diversity and inclusion in the RAF

The Royal Air Force Diversity and Inclusion Directive states:

“The Royal Air Force has a well-earned reputation for excellence in delivering Air and Space Power, and a proud history of success. While capable aircraft, weapons and support elements are fundamental to that reputation and success, it is our people who ultimately make the difference and give the Royal Air Force its competitive edge. Going forward, we must ensure we are able to recruit, promote and retain the widest pool of talent, and harness everybody’s full potential. With a richly diverse and inclusive workforce, we will be a better, stronger and more resilient Service. We must ensure that everyone, everywhere matters to us every day.

Diversity. The RAF is intent on increasing diversity across all minority groups including race, religion and beliefs, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, socio-economic representation and neuro-diversity. Greater diversity will enrich our understanding and broaden insight and is a critical component of the RAFs operational effectiveness.

Inclusion. A diverse workforce must be fully inclusive to harness the full potential of everybody across the RAF Whole Force. People in every part of the RAF organisation must demonstrate the highest personal standards of inclusive behaviour and all must feel included, able to achieve their full potential and able to contribute to our success, irrespective of who they are or where they came from.”

RAF diversity and inclusion Networks and Action Groups

The RAF Networks and Action Groups provide peer assistance, advice and engagement (internal and external) in support of under-represented groups. Their work is vital in realising the Chief of the Air Staff’s Intent to “make sure everybody can feel valued and included for who they are, what they bring to our organisation, and what they do to enhance the operational capability of the RAF.”

As well as the Networks and Action Groups listed below, information is also available through the Headquarters Air Diversity & Inclusion Team – [email protected]

Email: [email protected]
Twitter: www.twitter.com/raf_bame 

Intent: The Network provides vital support for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) Whole Force personnel, so that they can talk about issues and get advice from people with shared backgrounds and experiences. Network members are also available to advise Line Managers about cultural matters or terminology that may, or may not, affect personnel from BAME backgrounds. More broadly, the Network aims to increase cultural understanding across the Service and, specifically, to address issues that could hinder inclusion and career progression for BAME personnel. The BAME Network can provide access to Reverse Mentors for senior leaders, and specialist mentoring to ensure talented BAME personnel have equal opportunities to succeed. Network members are also called upon to assist Recruitment and Selection Specialist Engagement Teams at external events across the country.

Anyone can join the Network – We also need support from allies who are not from a BAME background. To join or to ask a question, please e-mail [email protected]  and we will be in touch.

The RAF BAME Network also feature on page 16-17 of the Spring Edition of Envoy 2021.

Email: [email protected]

The Disability Network for Air is an organisation advocating for those with disabilities, as well as those who care for others with disabilities within Air. We aim to improve the experiences of these people particularly by increasing awareness of the challenges faced by colleagues with disabilities and those who are carers for those with disabilities. Additionally, we seek to aid in Air policy development and engagement with the wider organisation.

Email: [email protected] 

RAF Diversity Allies are at the forefront of change.  We actively promote diversity and inclusion through daily action and engagement; we break down stigma, uphold the values of inclusivity and encourage open and transparent conversation to grow understanding and respect.  BAME, religion, gender, sexuality, disability; an RAF Diversity Ally supports the minority, engages the majority and stands up to actively combat barriers to inclusion.

This Network is being set up to help encourage inclusivity for all faiths and beliefs, including non-religious personnel. It will be a collaborative Network that provides support, encourages conversations and education, and engages with policy makers and Senior Leaders.

Contact details will be published as soon as possible, but existing MOD Faith and Belief networks are listed below.

MOD Christian Network: [email protected]

MOD Hindu Network: [email protected] 

MOD Humanists Network: [email protected] 

MOD Buddhist Network: [email protected] 

MOD Jewish Network: [email protected]

MOD Muslim Network: [email protected]

MOD Rastafarian Network: [email protected] 

MOD Sikh Network: [email protected]

Email: [email protected] 

Vision: To improve the RAF Lived Experience by creating an inclusive environment in which everyone can develop and succeed, regardless of gender by recognising gender differences and promoting diversity of thought.

Mission: Together we will help the RAF to create an increasingly positive and equal environment for all genders. The Gender Network will be a place to help:

  • Connect those who have an interest or a role to play in gender balance and equality;
  • to Engage across the RAF and more broadly and with other stakeholders on gender issues;
  • and, to Empower members of the RAF at all ranks and across the Whole Force to act in support of gender balance and improve the equality of the ‘lived experience’.

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MOD Sikh Network: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]
Facebook: www.facebook.com/raflgbtforum

Mission: The Freedom Network’s mission is to support LGBT+ personnel, advise the Air Diversity & Inclusion team of LGBT+ matters and inspire all personnel, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, to take pride in being themselves.

Additional info and support for LGBT+ Families below.

Email: [email protected]

We are a diverse group of volunteers who care about the mental health of our community. Our representatives across the RAF are the drivers of cultural change with a shared goal: End mental health stigma.

See our ‘Thinking Out Loud’ newsletter.

Email: [email protected] 

Vision: To be recognized as an organization that actively engenders social mobility through inclusive recruitment, retention and promotion.

Mission: As an inclusive employer, to create the environment where individuals from all socio-economic backgrounds can work, grow, thrive and succeed in unlocking their full potential.

This action group is currently being set up. More information will follow soon.

This action group is currently being set up. More information will follow soon.

The Diverse Families Team

The Diverse Families Team can be reached at [email protected] - find out about the parenting handbook and LGBTQ+ workshops being developed for the RAF Youth community and see their article on page 11 of the winter edition of Envoy magazine 2021 to find out more.

The MOD LGBT+ Network, ShOUT have produced this very helpful guide for parents - it includes advice on how to support your child and how to talk to them should they come out as LGBT+. It also includes a list of resources at the back for further advice, support, meet-ups and events with other parents in similar situations.

A full list of diversity networks can be found here (GOV.UK) >

Information Sources

Gendered Intelligence

Gendered Intelligence

Gendered Intelligence has a Directory of Therapists and Counsellors who have undertaken training in working alongside trans, gender diverse and questioning people.

Stonewall logo

Stonewall

Stonewall empowers LGBT people to be their authentic selves. Providing tools and confidence to connect with, influence and enable others in their communities.

Support for children and young people

GIDS

The Gender Identity Development Service is for children and young people, and their families, who experience difficulties in the development of their gender identity.

Young Minds

Young Minds provides a wealth of information around how to support your child with Gender Identity issues and have produced a Parent Guide.

Mermaids

Mermaids supports transgender, nonbinary and gender-diverse children, young people, and their families. It offers helpline services, web resources and events.