Cultural Competence
Aquarius VOICES
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Inclusion is not a box to tick. It's a commitment to change.
Aquarius VOICES is one of the ways we’re putting that commitment into action. It’s a space where staff, volunteers, and people with lived experience come together to help shape our workplace and services so they better reflect the diversity of the communities we support.
Constant support is on hand
"Coming to Aquarius over 10 years ago transformed my life. I got the support I didn’t even know I needed. Now I’m a totally new and different person with such self-confidence. All down to how Aquarius works for the better of the clients, staff and volunteers.
Due to all the encouragement, I had to get involved in working with Aquarius. I have good knowledge of how it works throughout the organisation. Therefore, when someone asks about what they do I am able to go through all sides of Aquarius. This is why I try to get new clients and volunteers to realise that the doors are open to all. Constant support is on hand, plus most staff have lived experience, meaning the empathy you feel from staff is real."
Linda Thompson, Volunteer
Playing a part towards positive change
"Volunteering with Aquarius means helping the community and playing a part towards positive change. I enjoy serving and having conversations with customers. What makes me proud is seeing smiles on their faces after being served, making it clear the service provided was good."
Tadi, Grounded Café Staff (previously a service user and a volunteer)
Aquarius is a family
"Aquarius is a place that offers support to those that need it by genuine people who care. Working in an environment like this you build a bond with those you support and the ones you work with. I have always said, Aquarius is a family.
I enjoy working with people knowing that the work I do makes a positive impact on their life, it can be challenging but when you see the change in someone, when they have hope and the confidence to overcome their obstacles, this in itself is such a reward."
Darren Townsend, Team Leader of Aquarius Homes
my passion never dips
"Aquarius is a service for you to access support or information about drugs. I know people make grand statements all the time about what they do, but we genuinely do not judge and encourage you to lead on the support you receive from us.
I absolutely love my job with Aquarius, working with young people has been my driving force for over twenty years and my passion never dips. I love the team we have in Birmingham, and I can wholeheartedly say we/I have the dedication to put people’s needs first which keeps the values of our service beating in our hearts."
Colette Lloyd, Service Manager
an organisation that empowers positive change
"I have worked at Aquarius for 14 years in total, after initially joining the organisation in an admin role I have been supported to develop my skills and experience to progress into management. Aquarius have supported my personal and professional development to enable me to now manage a service and support staff in their own development journeys. I have remained committed to working at Aquarius due to their values and focus on creating a positive work culture, and providing opportunities for qualifications and apprenticeships alongside this.
It is a privilege to work for an organisation that empowers positive change for people and tackles the challenges facing adults and young people who are impacted by substance use."
Emma Booth, Service Manager (Derby Family Drug and Alcohol Safeguarding Service)
What we’re about
We believe creating an inclusive workplace is about more than policies, it’s about people. That’s why this group is led by our workforce and open to anyone who wants to help drive meaningful change. Together, we focus on breaking down barriers, challenging bias, and celebrating cultural identity, not just in conversation, but through real action.
Cultural competence isn’t something you tick off, it’s an ongoing process of learning, listening, and leading with empathy. It’s about being open to different experiences, reflecting on our own perspectives, and actively creating environments where everyone feels welcome, respected, and understood.
Key focus areas include:
Reviewing policies and practices to promote equity and fairness
Shaping inclusive recruitment, leadership and career progression
Delivering training and tools that build cultural awareness
Celebrating cultures and lived experiences across our services
Creating space for open dialogue and shared learning
Get involved
We meet monthly and welcome anyone in Aquarius who’s passionate about making a difference. Whether you’ve got ideas, lived experience, questions or curiosity, there’s a place for you here.
Connect With Us
Inclusion doesn’t happen quietly in the background. It happens when people come together, challenge the status quo, and create a culture where everyone feels able to be themselves and celebrated for who they are.
Let’s create meaningful change, together.