Building an inclusive culture for LGBT+ employees.

At E.ON Next, our LGBT+ and Friends Network, promotes diversity and inclusion across all our sites in Europe, from Ausberg to Nottingham. And as co-chair, I'm dedicated to making sure every employee feels safe, valued, and represented, no matter their background. We're focused on educating our colleagues, breaking down myths about the LGBT+ community, and improving company policies to promote fairness and fight discrimination.

In the last year, our network actively supported Pride events in various countries, to show the world that E.ON Next is an inclusive workplace. But our efforts go beyond celebration. We also tackle serious issues like the increasing violation of rights and physical attacks on our community members.?

In our community, the prevalence of mental health challenges is a sobering reality. Half of our community members have grappled with the darkness of depression, a figure that weighs heavily on our hearts. What’s more, anxiety has touched the lives of three in five individuals among us, leaving them feeling overwhelmed and consumed by fear.?

But perhaps most alarming is the statistic that nearly half of our trans-community has contemplated ending their lives. These numbers are a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive mental healthcare and support systems that are accessible and affirming for all members of our community.

Recognising the gravity of these challenges, we want to emphasise that no one should ever feel alone or without hope. There are always people who care and want to listen.

But there is hope. Our aim is to create a culture of understanding, compassion, and inclusivity, where mental health is stigmatised and seeking help is seen as a sign of strength. By fostering open and honest conversations, we can break down the barriers that prevent individuals from reaching out for support. Together, we are creating a community where everyone feels valued, supported, and has the opportunity to thrive.

One way we are doing this is by introducing new UK guidelines on gender identity, developed with input from our Trans colleagues. These guidelines have been meticulously developed, ensuring their insights and experiences are deeply integrated. The guidelines serve as a valuable resource, providing a framework for understanding and respecting the diverse gender identities within our community.

Furthermore, we recognise the importance of mental well-being and have implemented regular mental health support sessions specifically designed for our community. These sessions offer a safe and confidential space for individuals to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a supportive environment. Qualified mental health professionals facilitate the sessions, providing guidance and strategies for coping with the unique challenges faced by our community.

By introducing initiatives like these, we aim to create an inclusive and supportive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. We believe that by fostering a culture of empathy, understanding, and respect, we can build a stronger and more resilient community.

Our visibility campaigns and storytelling not only showcase the achievements of our outstanding colleagues but also ensure continued support and awareness. And although I’m proud to say that this work has led to my nomination for the LGBTQIA Network Lead of the Year at The Bank of London Rainbow Honours 2024, I see it as a recognition of our collective effort and the supportive environment in the workplace.

So join us in making E.ON Next a place where everyone can truly be themselves and excel.