LGBTQ+ Networking Group at TransPennine Express

Colleagues from across the organisation have formed an internal TPE LGBTQ+ networking group. The group gives colleagues the opportunity to come together and discuss their experiences and discuss how TPE can better support those who identify as LGBTQ+, ensuring that every colleague can be their true selves at work. 

It’s an exciting time to be promoting inclusivity at TPE and the group is an amazing example of one of TPE’s core values: ‘being supportive of each other’. This is a network of people who may share the same thoughts, feelings and experiences and is an important space. 

The group is an important place, offering a space for those that are LGBTQ+ or are an ally: 

• Can offer peer-to-peer support by providing a space for LGBTQ+ colleagues to support each other, express concerns they may have and spend time around people who understand their personal experience 
• Can raise awareness by promoting a better understanding of LGBT+ inclusion and making LGBT+ experiences more visible to the wider organisation. We want to empower our colleagues to be allies and improve the workplace so everyone feels like they can be their true selves. 
• Can ensure accountability by suggesting feedback and improvements to policies and processes affecting those from the LGBTQ+ community, giving them a critical voice and ensuring that LGBTQ+ inclusion is embedded across the organisation. 

This group is open for everyone to join, whether you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally and all input is welcome.