Creating an LGBTQ inclusive workplace
To the casual observer, it may seem that there has never been a better time to be lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans (LGBTQ) in the UK. There are laws against discrimination, same-sex marriage is legal, and inclusion appears to be growing across society. Representation of LGBTQ identities is increasing in the media, there are more openly LGBTQ celebrities and sports stars, and rights for trans people are slowly advancing. For some, LGBTQ issues seem to no longer be issues at all.
Yet, research overwhelmingly demonstrates that there are still significant barriers faced by LGBTQ people in the UK today. Hate crime is rising, health inequalities are stark, conversion therapy is still lawfully practiced in the UK, and in 2019 1 in 5 people said being LGBT was ‘immoral or against their beliefs’. The perception that ‘the job is done’ when it comes to LGBTQ equality can hide the true extent of the health inequalities experienced by LGBTQ communities.
The good news is that there are many things each of us can do as employers, colleagues, friends and fellow humans to address these inequalities.
We currently have two LGBTQ at work workshops on offer. Scroll down to find out more.
Make your Workplace more LGBTQ Inclusive
Every year, the national LGBTQ+ helpline Switchboard handles over 17,000 conversations over the phone and via instant messaging and email. These conversations cover a wide range of topics, from people taking their first steps towards coming out or understanding themselves, to people wanting information about what is around them.
Sharing findings and learnings from their Listen Up report, learn how to make your workplace a more inclusive and supportive place for LGBTQ communities and individuals. With a focus on language and active listening skills, this 60 minute LGBTQ at work workshop will cover:
- Findings from the recent Listen Up report, which highlights common topics and themes where the LGBTQ community are seeking support
- LGBT Language – Why the words we choose matter and how we can use inclusive language
- LGBT Issues – The key issues for LGBTQ people in the UK today, equalities law, and how we can be allies to these communities.
- Learn 2-3 active listening skills that you can use to support conversations with LGBTQ individuals and communities.
- Steps to Change – Thinking about you, your team, and the things you can do today to make your workplace (and the world) a better place for LGBT people.
Learning about the LGBTQ Movement: From 50 Years ago to Today.
The LGBTQ+ movement has come a long way in the last 50 years, facing discrimination, epidemics and persecution – but also showing resilience, strength passion and joy. Throughout those years, volunteers from Switchboard, the national LGBT+ helpline, have been there, helping people feel heard, helping them find the information they need, and providing calm words when they are needed most.
This interactive workshop shares the progress made in the LGBTQ movements, where we’re at today and more work that needs to be done. In this 60-minute online workshop, delivered by a leading LGBT+ Charity Fundraising Manager, you will hear about:
- LGBTQ+ History in the UK
- The current landscape for LGBTQ+ people in the UK
- What this means for how to best support LGBTQ+ people in the UK today
S
🏳️🌈 Date for your diaries: Pride Month takes place in June every year.
Pride Month is a vibrant and inclusive celebration that honors the LGBTQ+ community, their history, achievements, and ongoing struggle for equality.
BOOK AN LGBTQ AT WORK WORKSHOP
Please fill in your details below
