Pride in Diversity: Supporting LGBT Colleagues at Work

Two decades into the twenty-first century, LGBT identity can present significant disadvantage and is still relatively taboo at work. Research reveals that over a third of LGBT staff have hidden their sexual orientation or gender identity at work for fear of discrimination.

Staff cannot reach their full potential when concerned about, or experiencing, bias and unfair treatment. However, there are straightforward steps which employers can take to support their LGBT staff and ensure their wellbeing is prioritised.

At this event, you will receive practical advice in ensuring that LGBT staff feel comfortable bringing their whole selves to work. Actionable strategies for building inclusivity and countering bias will be shared by expert speakers, allowing you to drive better individual, business and organisational outcomes.

Why attend?

Learn how to ensure that LGBT staff can contribute their best work without fear of discrimination
Bring new, innovative ideas around supporting staff and creating an LGBT-inclusive and positive culture in your workplace back to your organisation, with the insight needed to put them into practice
Hear from leading figures in LGBT inclusion on fostering LGBT allies and networks
Earn a CPD certificate for your personal progression
Enjoy an opportunity to network with expert speakers and your peers

Agenda

08.40	Registration
09.15	Welcome from Dods D&I Kiren Kaur, Diversity & Inclusion Manager, Dods D&I
09.20	Chair's Opening Address SPEAKER: Adrian Hyyrylainen-Trett, Global Membership Development Director, Employers Network for Equality and Inclusion (enei)
09.40	Unpacking LGBT: understanding the specific challenges encountered by different communities of the LGBT umbrella How the lesbian and gay community experience working life Dispelling the myths surrounding bi-sexuality and increasing bi-visibility Addressing the specific challenges and discrimination faced by trans employees SPEAKER: David Pearson, Inclusive Leadership Expert, former Director Global Inclusion & Diversity, KPMG
10.15	Comfort Break
10.30	Keynote: A personal reflection on my career as an LGBT employee
11.00	Comfort Break
11.10	Workshop: Policy in practice: understanding employer responsibilities in recruiting, retaining and progressing LGBT staff Adapting recruitment processes to ensure staff at all levels feel comfortable being themselves Controlling for and addressing unconscious bias Retaining current LGBT staff and removing barriers to fair promotion Creating procedures for cases of harassment or grievance Working remotely: understanding the impact for LGBT staff
12.10	Comfort Break
12.20	Keynote: You’ve got a friend in me: the importance of being an LGBT ally SPEAKER: Nick Pett, Deputy Director, Ministry of Defence
12.50	Break for Lunch
13.50	Panel Discussion: Pride in diversity: cultivating an LGBT-positive and inclusive culture Award-winning employers reflect on the trials and the triumphs of their journey to LGBT inclusion Wellbeing at work: providing support and prioritising staff welfare, both in the office and remotely Encouraging open conversation and LGBT acceptance across the business Power in numbers: the role of staff networks in education, awareness and inclusion
15.00	Comfort Break
15.10	Keynote & Chair's Closing Remarks Intersectionality at work: appreciating individuality and recognising each staff member as unique SPEAKER: Adrian Hyyrylainen-Trett, Global Membership Development Director, Employers Network for Equality and Inclusion (enei)
15.45	Event Close