Teddington NPL lights up purple to celebrate disability inclusion

By Ellie Brown - Local Democracy Reporter 16th Dec 2021

Local News by Ellie Brown - Local Democracy Reporter 16th Dec 2021

TEDDINGTON science lab the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) was bathed in purple light earlier this month to show its support for and commitment to disability inclusion in the workplace.

The NPL buildings glowed purple from 29 to 3 December as part of 'Purple Lights Up,' a yearly campaign by the world's only disability confident professional network hub Purple Space.

The visual show of support also marked the introduction of a new disability and long-term condition policy by the lab, developed in partnership with staff networks and with support from the Business Disability Forum.

In a news release, NPL wrote: "As the UK's National Metrology Institute, NPL undertakes science and engineering to deliver extraordinary impact for the UK. It is only possible to deliver such impact by having diverse teams resulting in a more creative workforce and innovative solutions for challenging problems.

"Therefore, it is vital to create an environment in which everyone feels comfortable being their authentic self and be provided with the support to thrive."

Mark Downing, the lab's Senior Business App Developer and Lead of the Accessibility Action Group commented: "I believe strongly that if we can have honest and open conversations about disability in the workplace, we can learn from those around us to improve as an organisation.

"Our new policy has the perspectives of employees with experience of disability at its foundation, to ensure our support is effective and everyone can contribute to the work that NPL does."

NPL CEO Dr Peter Thompson, FREng, also expressed support for the initiative.

He said: "I'm delighted that we are taking part in Purple Light Up 2021 to celebrate disability inclusion and I sincerely hope it leads to more colleagues discussing disability and sharing their perspectives.

"My vision is that everyone feels valued and supported and can bring their true self to the workplace.

"It is important to recognise that taking part in this initiative is just one way we're celebrating diversity, and we will continue to implement practical changes to aid our people and remove any barriers faced.

"Our new policy represents a genuine partnership, and I want to thank the members of our staff-led networks who have so generously shared their experiences and perspectives, which has enabled us to better understand where we can make improvements to deliver on our vision to be an exemplary national laboratory."