In October we deliver core modules from the 'Networkology Academy'. The phrase was invented by our Founder and CEO Kate Nash OBE to describe the 'art and science' of running a high-performing disability network/Employee Resource Group and it sums up our core delivery.

This month, depending on where you are at, come along to one, or more, of our three Life-cycle webinars

• In Starting Out, a 45-minute webinar, we will examine, using member case studies how to get your network / ERG up and running
• In Stepping Up, a 45-minute webinar, we will examine, using members case studies how to move up a gear as you move into your 3rd or 4th year of operation
• In Thriving & Innovating, a 45-minute webinar, we will examine how to sustain momentum as you deliver a mature and high-performing network 

In addition, we have the second of the #PurpleLightUp reference group meetings chaired by PurpleSpace Ambassador, Andy Kneen, Shell. We know how many of you are already planning activities to celebrate the economic contribution of disabled employees across the world as part of the UN International Year of Persons with Disability. And we know how important it is to share ideas. The second meeting will take place on Tuesday 27th October.

And to round the month up, we invite you to our Peer Group Learning Sessions where this month we will be focussing on “Putting It into Practice: Networkology Principles” taking place on 29th October at 14:00 (BST). 

Keep an eye out for this month’s ‘Spotlight On’ which will feature one of our fantastic members. 

This month, we have three challenges for you:

• Create a “storyboard” about your network / resource group. There are many templates freely available on the internet, or you may have an in-house version. Summarise every success in a simple timeline infographic so you have to hand a visual success map. PurpleStories may help with this. 
• Think about what stage of the “life-cycle” your network / resource group is on. Start a discussion with key stakeholders about where you want to be in three years’ time
• Ask your Disability Champion to offer one stretch target for the network / ERG. Turn to our guide on Working With Your Disability Champion or Executive Sponsor if you need tips on how to approach your Champion.