It is important that the University continues to challenge its thinking regarding what is considered the best means to support LGBT+ inclusion, and the Stonewall Diversity Champion Scheme provides a valuable perspective in this area.
Stonewall provides a service and framework to keep up to date with and promote best practices to support LGBT+ inclusion. It also allows access to training, workshops, and consultations on LGBT+ issues.
Chris McLeod, LGBT+ Staff Network Chair, commented: “Since its formation in 1989, Stonewall has been at the forefront of LGBT+ rights campaigns as one of the largest LGBT+ charities in the world.
“Over this period, Stonewall has facilitated many successful campaigns such as the repealing of Section 28, the extension of adoption and IVF rights to people who are not heterosexual or cisgender, the introduction of civil partnerships and many more.
“Today, Stonewall continues to challenge the status quo with the aim of improving the lives of more and more people every day. Loughborough University shares this aim and it’s great to see that colleagues continue to believe that Stonewall can show us a path to this end, to continue to refine our internal processes, structures, and culture to optimise LGBT+ inclusion.”
Creating a culture where everyone feels they belong is a key component of the University strategy. Renewal of our Stonewall Diversity Champion membership allows us to demonstrate publicly the awareness the University has about LGBT+ specific issues and its support for LGBT+ staff and students to feel fully welcomed and included at the University.