Social Health or Belonging Matters

Building Connection and Inclusion

In today’s fast-changing world, where global events, technology, and shifting social attitudes are reshaping how we live and work, one thing remains timeless: people need to feel they belong. After food and water belonging is our most basic human need. Whether you’re running a café in Galway, a start-up in Dublin, or a community organisation in Limerick, creating a workplace where people feel connected, respected, and safe is more important than ever.

Over the last decade, many Irish businesses have made real strides in diversity and inclusion recognising the importance of welcoming people from all walks of life. But as the world becomes more complex and uncertain, we must go further. It’s no longer just about who is in the room, it’s about how people feel in the room. That’s where belonging comes in.

Belonging means more than ticking boxes. It’s about ensuring everyone, regardless of who they are or where they come from, feels truly seen, heard, and valued. That includes people from marginalised or underrepresented communities such as the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent individuals, members of the Traveller community, people from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds, and those living with disabilities. Everyone brings their own lived experience and in smaller businesses, where relationships are often closer and culture is shaped day-to-day, the opportunity to create meaningful, inclusive connection is both real and powerful.

Globally, loneliness and disconnection are on the rise, even though we’re more connected online than ever. This has serious implications for mental health and employee engagement. Studies show that when people feel they belong, they are more motivated, innovative and resilient. On the other hand, when people feel excluded, it can lead to burnout, high turnover, and reduced productivity, even in the most well-intentioned workplaces.

So how can Irish businesses, especially small business build a culture of connection and belonging without a big HR department or large budget?

Powerful Steps

Start with Listening

Everyone’s experience is different. Take time to ask your team how they’re really doing, what makes them feel included, and what small changes might make a difference. Listening builds trust.

Acknowledge Difference, Celebrate It

From Pride flags to cultural celebration days or simply asking for correct name pronunciations, small actions send a big message: “You matter here.”

Create Everyday Connection Moments

Whether it’s a weekly coffee or tea together, shout-outs for good work, or checking in with someone who’s been quiet, these informal touchpoints build connection over time.

Lead by Example

As a business owner or team leader, your openness matters. If you can show vulnerability, admit mistakes, and genuinely care, others will feel safe to do the same.

Make Inclusion Practical

Can a trans employee use the facilities safely? Is your meeting accessible for someone with hearing loss? Inclusion is often about the everyday details.

In a world where people are overwhelmed by noise, conflict, and division, your workplace can be a space of safety and connection. No matter how big or small your business is, you have the power to create a culture where everyone, regardless of background, feels they belong because when people feel they belong, they thrive and when people thrive, your business does too.