EoE Academy Board Blog: Declan Nugent

When I joined NHS Finance, I quickly learned that numbers tell only part of the story. Behind every budget and forecast is a person, every person deserves to feel valued and supported. That belief drives my involvement in the East of England Regional Finance Academy Board as well as the National Rainbow Network.

What really resonates with me about the Rainbow Network is its purpose: improving visibility, creating safe spaces for open conversations, and raising awareness through education and shared experiences. It empowers people to speak up, helps colleagues feel confident being themselves at work, and encourages the wider finance community to learn and grow together. By connecting people and sharing stories, it drives positive change across NHS Finance, and its success is strengthened by the support of the East of England network of Inclusion and Diversity Ambassadors, which shares the same commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

One of the most rewarding parts of being involved in the Rainbow Network is the people I’ve met along the way. It has introduced me to so many inspiring colleagues, people I might never have crossed paths with otherwise. These connections have broadened my perspective, deepened my understanding, and reminded me of the power of shared experiences in driving meaningful change.

There was a defining moment in my career that shaped my commitment to inclusion. I was in a meeting where diversity was discussed, but LGBTQ+ inclusion wasn’t mentioned at all. I remember thinking: If no one raises this, who will? That experience taught me that change starts with courage, and with people willing to speak up.

I’ve been fortunate to have exceptional managers along the way. Leaders who challenged me, supported me, and taught me lessons I still carry today. One taught me the importance of listening before acting, another showed me how to create space for others to shine. Those lessons shaped not only my approach to finance but also my approach to inclusion.

In my day job, I’m currently Deputy Director of Finance for Productivity and Efficiency at NHS England. My focus is on driving improvements that deliver better value for patients and the health system. In many ways, this role mirrors my passion for inclusion, both are about removing barriers and helping people and resources reach their full potential.

Looking at the profiles of my fellow finance academy board members, I’m inspired by their commitment to collaboration, talent development, and championing diversity and inclusion. These values resonate deeply with me because they reflect what inclusion is all about, building environments where everyone can thrive.  As a board our purpose is clear: to make sure no one feels invisible. Whether you identify as LGBTQ+, as an ally, or simply want to support inclusion, your presence matters. Together, we can create spaces where authenticity isn’t just accepted, it’s celebrated.

Why does diversity and inclusion matter in finance leadership? Because diverse teams make better decisions. They bring fresh perspectives, foster innovation, and strengthen resilience. Inclusion isn’t a “nice to have”; it makes us stronger as a team.

The Rainbow Network has gone from strength to strength and wouldn’t be where it is today without the support of colleagues across NHS Finance. Their commitment and allyship have helped create a space where people feel safe, visible, and valued, with the progress made clearly demonstrating what we can achieve when we work together.

I invite you to join the conversation, share your story, connect with the Rainbow Network Hub and the Finance Academy, and help us keep building a culture where everyone feels empowered to bring their whole self to work. Because when we do, we improve not only our workplaces but also lives, making inclusion a lived reality every day. 

Sign up to join as an Inclusion and Diversity Ambassador, and help us continue creating spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Together, we can make a difference.

Learn more about the LGBTQIA+ Hub here.

Kind regards

Declan Nugent

Declan Nugent

My pronouns are he/him

Deputy Director of Finance Productivity & Efficiency

NHS England – East of England Region