If you've ever stood up for someone facing discrimination, you might make a good social inclusion officer (SIO). Professional social inclusion officers work to identify and remove discrimination that creates barriers to full social participation for the marginalised members of society. It is important for all individuals to feel connected and valued within society because people who feel included are better able to contribute to their society without fear of being snubbed or pushed aside. This course is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to effectively advocate for and support marginalised groups in your workplace and community. We begin the course by providing an overview of the concept of social inclusion to establish its contemporary importance and purpose. SIOs work hard to ensure that diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) are respected in organisations and wider society. We then explore the dimensions of social exclusion and examine its causes and possible remedies.

People who are socially excluded are deprived of the opportunities they need to escape poverty and the chance to use their voices to assert their rights. We describe the impact that social exclusion can have on individuals and communities to help you develop strategies to address issues like discrimination and injustice. We explain the social, economic and political factors that shape our world and trace their impact on issues of inclusion and equality. This course not only covers theoretical concepts but also provides you with the practical skills and knowledge required to pursue a rewarding career in this field. We lay out the various roles and responsibilities of a social inclusion officer and identify the various challenges that SIOs may face on the job. We guide you through the steps taken to overcome challenges, starting with the research and analysis required to locate social exclusion and inclusion issues before addressing them.

The course then traces the relationship between social inclusion and social mobility to help you understand how DEI principles can help people overcome the barriers raised by social exclusion. We then demonstrate the important link between social inclusion and mental health as social exclusion can compromise the latter as it leads to alienation and ennui. We wrap up the course by exploring the various communication strategies and techniques that can be used to promote social inclusion in the workplace, classroom or wider community. This course explains the issues facing marginalised groups in our society and provides the opportunity to learn how to address them and make a difference in your community. We draw on the principles that drive efforts to promote diversity, equity and inclusion to help you boost your personal and professional development as a manager, SOI or DEI expert. Sign up to ‘be the change you want to see in the world’.