5 reasons LGBT+ networks are important for business but most importantly the people who work in it

Nathan Woodhead, Creative Director, FHF London

As a young gay man growing up somewhere between Hull, Grimsby and Scunthorpe being ‘different’ wasn’t something that was widely celebrated. This always fascinated me, why did people dislike each other for being different? Why did being something other than ‘the norm’ instantly offer up an opportunity to victimise people?

As I approach my mid-thirties and look back on my own early experiences at school I feel so very grateful that so much progress has been made in the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance for many LGBT+ people. There is still a long road ahead, particularly when we look to understanding and acceptance of the broader queer community. As the world we live in continues to change, people are more aware of the rainbow of people that live under the LGBTQIA+ banner it’s vital that organisations show their support and strive to educate.

Below are a few reasons I think that LGBT+ networks are important for business but most importantly the people who work in it.

1/ Education = acceptance

In the last few years, businesses in all sectors have made huge progress in creating better support for LGBT+ employees. The most effective has set out a mission and delivered diversity and inclusion training for all employees, regardless of their level. Bias and prejudice exist everywhere and creating an environment which provides a platform for the LGBT+ people in your organisation will help to develop a culture of tolerance, acceptance and openness on all fronts.

2/ Normality matters

We live in a heteronormative society, this means company policies, hiring and HR can often overlook the needs of minority groups, and in the worst cases exclude LGBT+ people all together. An effective LGBT+ network can offer vital insight into what your current employees need and what future talent might expect.

3/ Visibility

A well run LGBT+ network will help people to feel heard, seen and understood. This will ultimately deliver happier employees who stay with you for longer.

4/ Gen Z are the future

Any organisation that doesn’t have the right policies in place will struggle to attract the next generation of talent. Gen Z is progressive, fluid and willing to stand by the right to be their true selves. This generation is the future of industries and many of those who don’t identify as LGBT+ are vocal allies of those who do.

5/ You can help change the world

Equality in the workplace will always require work and the LGBT+ community are only one part of the picture. Lead a charge, celebrate the people who break the mould and give everyone in your organisation the tools they need to embrace diversity and accept people for who they are. It’s a lesson that will be with them for life.