Businesses, collectively representing thousands of regional employees, joined LCR Pride Foundation last night (14th March 2024) to get a first preview of their new initiative, LCR Proud Workplaces.
The trailblazing programme is aimed at employers in Liverpool City Region that aspire to support their employees and tackle issues that affect LGBT+ colleagues in the workplace through an annual programme of seminars and advice.
Announced earlier this year, the initiative forms part of a new three-year partnership between Liverpool City Region’s LGBT+ charity LCR Pride Foundation and Barclays.
Businesses who attended last night’s event held at Fazenda Rodizio Bar & Grill Liverpool were able to learn about what resources are available to help them deliver an inclusive and equitable work culture.
The event also saw the launch of the ‘Partners With Pride’ initiative. The unique scheme, which is unlike traditional models of business clubs and networks, gives businesses of all sizes the opportunity to invest and support the work of LCR Pride Foundation year-round and in a genuine and meaningful way.
A variety of independent and large businesses attended from different sectors, including retailers, hospitality, healthcare and corporate businesses.
Andi Herring, CEO of LCR Pride Foundation, said: “It was fantastic to see so many incredible individuals and businesses coming together, all interested in overcoming the obstacles that LGBT+ colleagues and customers may face and with a real desire to create truly inclusive environments.
“Actions speak louder than words and the Partners with Pride scheme is an exciting opportunity for businesses to act upon and demonstrate their commitment to making their organisation more inclusive. We look forward to developing relationships with those businesses who attended, as well as any other businesses that would like to get involved.”
Ann O’Donoghue, Group Diversity, Equity and Inclusion from Barclays said: “We are delighted to support LCR Pride Foundation with the launch of the Proud Workplaces Programme. Encouraging a diverse and inclusive workplace makes LGBT+ colleagues and customers feel safer and also allows businesses to grow and evolve.”
More information and first releases can be found at proudworkplaces.org