Spectrum at Home Office

Spectrum is proud to be the LGBT+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans and all sexual & gender identities) network in the Home Office. Our vision is straightforward; to provide a safe working environment, where all staff are able to be everything they can be to contribute towards their public service career and assist in our goal to be ‘inclusive by instinct’.

As a network we have clearly defined aims as well as a strong allies’ network to provide a forum to meet each other; establish peer support; socialise; offer advice; raise concerns; promote understanding and open up opportunities. Over the years the Home Office has;

• been recognised highly in the Stonewall Top 100 Workplace Equality Index and was previously one of the Star Performers,
• Spectrum is classed as a Stonewall Highly Commended support network.

More specifically as a network we have worked with all areas of the Home Office to support the delivery of the inclusive by instinct strategy and have;

• Supported the development of LGBT+ staff in applying and being part of our leadership and development mentoring programmes to cultivate skills and provide the tools to aid career progression.   
• Supported and building our leadership, Allies and Role Models to lead and develop teams inclusively to maintain strong performance to support all LGBT+ staff and our customers.  
• Worked with the department in ensuring that HR policies are inclusive and take into account LGBT+ needs so that, as an LGBT+ member of staff, you have confidence in the department supporting you when you need it, be that needing support during difficult times, becoming a parent or undergoing transition.
• Visibly mark and celebrate many LGBT+ diversity days such as taking part in Prides across the UK alongside our Civil Service colleagues from across government as well as celebrating prides within our many offices with bake sales, quizzes and other enjoyable events.

Our staff have said;

“The department is genuinely interested in developing the talent of its LGBT+ staff. I was able to secure a place on a Positive Action Pathway that has been a real drive for my personal career plans in terms of giving me the confidence and positivity that maybe I can further my career whilst being an out gay man”

A Caseworker in Sheffield

“We have the best staff support network going in Spectrum! They do a wonderful job supporting LGBT+ staff and have personally supported me in my journey”

Assistant Director in London

“Without having to invest energy in fighting obstacles and prejudice I have been able to focus on developing my strengths and what I can do best to add value to my team, colleagues and the Home Office”

Director in Croydon