Case Studies

Squashing Barriers with Xero

“Squash workshops are powerful, thought-provoking, and truly drive change. Working on these topics with Rachel and her team was such a valuable experience, and seeing the real impact these sessions have has been incredible.”

- Anthony Magee, Head of Performance and Insight, Xero.

Over the course of 9 months, Squash partnered with Xero to design and deliver a bespoke programme of interactive workshops. The aim was to bring to life experiences employees could face in the workplace, spark meaningful conversations and equip participants with practical tools to foster a more inclusive workplace.

Rather than working with Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) in isolation, we collaborated across multiple ERGs to explore the diverse, multi-layered experiences of employees throughout the business. We carried out research to identify key challenges related to unconscious bias and developed four tailored scenarios to address these areas.

The four workshops focused on:

  • Neuroinclusion - Understanding the experience of a colleague with ADHD

  • Equitable Recruitment - Highlighting the importance of diversity and equitable hiring practices

  • LGBTQ+ Allyship - Exploring the journey of a non-binary colleague joining the company

  • Maternal and Racial Bias - Examining the unique barriers faced by a Black mother returning to work

Squash created and developed bespoke scripts for each scenario, which were brought to life by professional actors. Each session provided a unique, immersive experience, encouraging participants to engage in open discussions and equipping participants with practical actions they could use to better support colleagues facing similar challenges. 

The workshops were designed as a progressive learning journey, with each session building on the last. By the end of the programme, participants had not only deepened their understanding but also gained the confidence to apply their learning in real-world situations - helping them to become stronger allies and to create a more inclusive culture at Xero.

The results

  • 100% intend to take action towards a more inclusive culture.

  • 100% would recommend this programme to an employee.

  • 100% agreed using drama helped them to consider other employees' experiences.

Participant feedback:  What did you like about the programme?

  • “Discussing scenarios and relating it to our own experiences. I thought it was a great session and FAR better than online D&I training!”

  • “The role-play element makes the scenario very real. It lets the viewer get a first hand view into the type of situations they could encounter.” 

  • “It didn’t hold back, it helped reveal unfortunate harsh realities in a way that was eye opening and informative!”’

  • “Loved how much it made me think and question my existing thoughts and made me realise there is so much more I can do.”

Xero quote:

“Squash have been absolutely incredible from start to finish! Rachel gave us a taster session on gender bias, and we loved the approach of using role-playing to bring the story to life. We signed up to four workshops which covered a range of topics. During the planning stages, she met with us on several occasions to ensure the sessions were tailored to fit our needs. The sessions have generated a lot of discussions within Xero and the experiences employees from various backgrounds could experience in the workplace. We're excited to continue this learning journey and appreciation for all our differences.”

– Alex Wing Yue Lai , Xero