Out@Work

25th November 2009

Recent figures from Stonewall, the organisation supporting lesbian and gay people, state that over half of gay people were still not 'out' in the workplace. Yet gay staff who are 'out', and who are supported, are more productive and more likely to stay with an employer.

Out@Work was a celebratory day of discussions and workshops to raise awareness of lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and trans issues in the work place.

The event aimed to help the University reflect on and examine how to sustain a workplace which promotes inclusion and respect for diversity. The day included small focussed sessions such as 'Creating an Inclusive Culture', 'Queer Voices', an Information Fair, and a lunchtime panel with high profile speakers, including a keynote speech from writer, broadcaster and co-founder of Stonewall, Simon Fanshawe.

The event culminated in an evening concert starring OutAloud – Sheffield’s first gay choir. The concert, which was held in Firth Hall, included performances by poet Nell Farrell and staff from the University's School of English.

The outcomes of the day included proposals to support the formation of a staff network, working closely with staff who would like to be a part of this, and continuing to raise awareness of the issues touched on during the day by visible role models and future events.

To get involved please contact Julie Campbell on j.l.campbell@sheffield.ac.uk

The event was part of the University’s Excellence through Inclusion strategy which promotes a motivated and diverse community amongst its staff.

The University is a Stonewall Diversity Champion (People perform better when they can be themselves - Stonewall)

Our Out@Work day was a tremendous milestone, encompassing debate, discussion, entertainment and celebration. The University is very proud of its diverse workforce and student body and I found it a particular privilege to attend several events. I am still humming along to OutAloud!
Professor Dominic Shellard, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for External Affairs

These focussed days are part of our programme to raise awareness, challenge our own thinking, and listen to different experiences and views. They also generate momentum for change and ideas for future action. I hope that our Out@Work day will reap future benefits in increased understanding and celebration of difference.
Rosie Valerio, Director of Human Resource Management