A one-day programme to explore how to be a more effective and inclusive role model and ally to LGBT people is to be hosted at the University of Birmingham by Stonewall, the leading charity for lesbian, gay, bi and trans equality. Allies are individuals who do not identify as LGBT and believe that lesbian, gay, bi and trans people should be free to be themselves. Stonewall believes allies have a critical role to play in creating inclusive environments and they’re key to advancing fair treatment for LGBT people at work, home and in their communities.

Stonewall’s CPD accredited programme on Wednesday 11 May 2016 will give attendees practical ways to step up as an ally, active listening skills and an insight into what being yourself really means.

In Stonewall’s most recent workplace equality survey, 25 per cent of lesbian, gay and bi respondents in the West Midlands said they felt comfortable being open about their sexual orientation in the workplace. The charity’s Workplace Equalities Index also saw four public sector organisations from the West Midlands making it into the top 100.

The University of Birmingham came in at number 50, while Birmingham City Council climbed to 28 from number 59. Core Assets Group came at number 55 and the West Midlands Police came in at number 71.

Professor Una Martin, Deputy Pro-Vice- Chancellor for Equalities, said:  ‘At the University of Birmingham we are committed to creating an inclusive culture where all of our staff and students can feel comfortable to be themselves. I firmly believe that everyone has a role to play in achieving this which is why initiatives such as Stonewall’s Allies programme are so important. We are proud to be Stonewall Diversity Champions and are looking forward to hosting the Allies Event on campus.’

Michelle Booth, Stonewall’s Head of Projects and Programmes, said: ‘We’d really encourage people to ask their employers with support for this programme. Allies have a critical role to play in creating inclusive environments, and a key factor in the success of role models is their visibility in the workplace.’

The event at the University of Birmingham is one of three open Stonewall Allies Programmes taking place this summer around the country.

For more information about Stonewall's allies programme visit http://www.stonewall.org.uk/get-involved/get-involved-ind-and-comm/allies-programme