Everyturn Mental Health, a national non-profit, is calling on organisations to increase inclusive practices and policies for LGBTQIA+ communities, to ensure that the right support is always readily available for everyone, in all workplaces.
The 2021 census showed that 1.3 million of the UK population identifies as LGBTQIA+ – the first time such data has been recorded. A recent study from the charity Stonewall, also shows there is an increasing proportion of the population identifying as LGBTQIA+, with 29% of younger people identifying as LGBTQIA+ compared to 9% of older people.
However, there is still discrimination against LGBTQIA+ communities in many workplaces, as well as in wider society, with one in five staff being the target of negative comments or conduct because of how they identify.
After attending Northern Pride, as well as several other Pride events nationally throughout the summer, Everyturn Mental Health wants to ensure that the inclusive and supportive environment created around Pride is continued all year round. It is calling for other organisations to prioritise implementing more permanent practices so their LGTBQIA+ colleagues feel supported and valued.
The non-profit has introduced several initiatives, including employee network groups, allowing people to discuss wellbeing through their lived experiences and suggest practical ways to support colleagues; a Gender Identity Policy to help colleagues respectfully recognise others’ gender identity; training opportunities to increase awareness of the issues LGBTQIA+ communities can face; and a volunteering initiative, allowing colleagues to support local LGBTQIA+ events.
CEO of Everyturn Mental Health, Adam Crampsie, said: “As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community myself, I know all too well how difficult and isolating it can feel to try to get the support you need without feeling like you’re being judged.
“We are actively trying to tackle inequalities here at Everyturn, through initiatives like our employee network groups and Gender Identity Policy, but we understand that we, and others like us, have so much more to do to ensure that LGBTQIA+ people receive the excellent, compassionate support they deserve.”
Director of Northern Pride Events, Ste Dunn, said: “We know our community still has to work hard to battle discrimination and that can have severe long-term effects, especially on our mental health. It is so vital that LGBTQIA+ people are supported throughout the year, so any initiative that promotes this is always very welcome.
“We are lucky that many businesses and individuals, like Everyturn Mental Health, stand alongside us as our allies and campaign for change. We are delighted to have Everyturn’s continued commitment.”
