Melanie Holloway

Melanie Holloway (she/her) has worked in the diversity and inclusion space since 2018, beginning as the EDI lead for a large social housing organisation where she developed and implemented the organisation’s EDI strategy.

For the past five years, she has been part of the national diversity and inclusion team within NHS arm’s length bodies, leading on high-profile national initiatives such as Black on Board, supporting staff networks, and co-ordinating the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index submission.

Her passion lies in creating inclusive environments where everyone can thrive, with a particular focus on LGBTQIA+ inclusion. She brings a deep understanding of the diverse communities we serve, informed not only by her EDI work but also by a 20 year career in social care.

She currently serves as chair of NHS England’s LGBTQIA+ Staff Network, a role she has held for two years. She is committed to role modelling inclusive behaviours and being her authentic self in the workplace. She believes in lifting others – especially those from marginalised groups – and creating spaces where people feel seen, heard and valued.

Staff networks play a vital role in organisational culture: acting as critical friends, providing social and educational support, creating safe spaces, and driving external collaboration across NHS trusts and health organisations. Their success depends on listening to and responding to the needs of their members. 

Personally, she is deeply committed to increasing visibility and support for marginalised identities within the LGBTQIA+ umbrella and actively challenging homophobia and transphobia wherever it exists in NHS culture.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your career journey so far.

I’ve always been driven by a deep desire to support and empower others, and this has shaped every step of my career. I spent 20 years in social care, beginning as a support worker and progressing to registered manager roles across services supporting people with learning disabilities and older adults.

In my 40s, I made a bold career change, moving briefly into learning and development before stepping into the world of diversity and inclusion. I began this journey with a large social housing provider and, five years ago, joined Health Education England (now part of NHS England), where I continue to work within the national diversity and inclusion team.

My involvement with staff networks began in 2013, as a member, then a chair, and later as an EDI lead supporting the development and sustainability of networks. I believe staff networks are vital spaces for colleagues from under-represented communities. They offer safety, support, and visibility, helping people feel valued and included in the workplace.

I’ve supported both the housing provider and HEE in achieving recognition in Stonewall’s Top 100 list of LGBTQ+ inclusive employers, earning Gold Awards and Commended Network Awards. In 2019, the network I led received a Commended Rainbow Honours Award, and NHS England’s LGBTQIA+ Staff Network is soon to be announced as a finalist in a new leadership award.

One of my proudest achievements is authoring the LGBTQIA+ Inclusion e-learning module, launched in 2023 and made available to all NHS and social care colleagues, which briefly helped to embed inclusive practice across the sector.

What is one lesson or piece of advice you’d like to give aspiring LGBTQ+ leaders?

Leadership doesn’t always look like a title or a role; it often shows up in how you advocate, support others, and challenge the status quo. Take time to reflect on the strengths you bring, and see them for what they are: powerful tools for change.

Whether it's a healthcare organisation, a government body, or a community network, knowing how the system operates helps you navigate it strategically. Learn its language, its levers, and its limitations, then organise with others to create momentum.

Change can be slow and complex. Be clear about your goals, whether they’re personal, team-based, or systemic. Knowing what success means to you helps you stay focused and resilient.

Be bold in your vision and unapologetic in your values but also lead with empathy. Inclusion is built not just through challenge, but through connection. Fierce compassion is a leadership superpower.

What are you most looking forward to about joining the Health and Care LGBTQ+ Leaders Network?

Sharing space with other passionate leaders and contributing to improving the workplace for LGBTQIA+ colleagues.