Spotlight on our Disability Network
Championing inclusion, shaped by lived experience
At the Sanger Institute, inclusion isn’t a buzzword it’s a practice rooted in lived experience, empathy, and continuous evolution. At the heart of our efforts is the Disability Network, led by Francesca Littler, who brings both professional insight and personal passion to creating a more accessible, understanding workplace.
As the Network celebrates its second anniversary since relaunching, it has become a vital voice in shaping a workplace where all colleagues, including those with disabilities, feel seen, supported, and empowered.
“We build community, raise awareness, and serve as a bridge between staff and leadership,” says Francesca. “It’s a two-way relationship, people come to us for guidance, and we advocate for meaningful change.”
The Disability Network is now a recognised platform for inclusive dialogue offering insights that inform decisions, consulting on key projects, and embedding disability inclusion into the Institute’s planning and culture.
What the Network Is Doing
The Disability Network’s evolving action plan includes several high-impact initiatives:
Celebrating Key Dates
- Disability Pride Month (July) and International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December)
Hosting awareness events, training sessions, and community-building workshops.
Support Groups & Forums
- Monthly peer-support drop-ins (online and in-person) for employees with disabilities
- Quarterly open forums to discuss ideas and improvements across the Institute
Listening and Acting
- Anonymous feedback tools and continuous staff input to guide initiatives
- New guidance for inclusive meetings, disclosure conversations, and reasonable adjustments
Collaborating Beyond Our Campus
- Partnering with external networks to share best practices and learn from sector peers
Visibility, Support & Real Impact
Francesca explains the power of connection:
“It’s a safe space for people who have or think they may have a disability. Sometimes it’s a chat, sometimes it’s structured support but it always makes people feel seen.”
The Network’s growth has led to tangible change:
- Senior leadership now proactively seeks the Network’s perspective
- One-to-one listening sessions between executives and staff with disabilities have built mutual understanding
- Participation in organisational planning reflects the Network’s credibility and influence
“When I walk into a room full of people at our events, all there to learn and grow – it’s powerful. The feedback has been overwhelming. Some colleagues say they’ve never felt this supported at any other organisation.”
The strength of the Disability Network lies in its people, passionate individuals from across the Institute who bring ideas, energy, and purpose. Their reflections, shared through team portraits and quotes, show how personal commitment fuels meaningful change.
“Together, we’re building an inclusive, empathetic, and accessible workplace for all.”
Voices from the Disability Network Operations Group
The strength of the Disability Network lies in its people. Here’s what some of the Operations Group members shared about why they joined and what keeps them inspired:
A Note on Language
In this article, we’ve used “employees with disabilities” following person-first language principles, which emphasise the individual before the disability. However, we understand that many people — particularly within neurodivergent and disabled communities — prefer identity-first language, such as “disabled employees.”
We respect all perspectives and recognise that language is deeply personal and evolving. Our goal is to communicate inclusively, compassionately, and clearly.
Explore more on disability language:
