ICAEW’s one-day workshop that explored diversity and inclusion with members and students examined what it means to belong at work.

“It can be challenging if there is a perception or a bad culture in the business where you don’t have a platform to stand up and talk and air your views,” says Alan Chan, Founder of Cornerstone Accounts. “I think that’s difficult at the best of times. But if you’re particularly introverted or you’re a minority that’s a real challenge.”

Belonging enables a feeling of security and support at work and a sense of acceptance, inclusion and identity for members of different groups. People feel able to be their authentic selves at work.

“I found it extremely easy to ask for help within my firm,” says Annabelle Bridges, Tax Associate at Grant Thornton. “They have been fantastic. I have got a really good people manager, and all the managers in my team and just colleagues generally are really, really supportive, which I think massively, has helped.