August 30, 2022
D/Gauge are proud to be active members of the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Working Group and are pleased to support the upcoming ‘PRIDE 2022’ event. The Railway Industry Association (RIA) and Women in Rail (WR) Equality Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Charter Working Group are hosting their first physical event of the year, in the coming week.
Held in RIA’s Westminster offices, the agenda features a range of viewpoints and speakers from across the railway. These perspectives will be presented in a safe, encouraging space, and are great stories for both the railway’s LGBTQ+ community and allies.
Studies by the Stonewall Foundation showed that 1 in 5 people have been attacked, verbally or physically for their sexuality whilst at work. The EDI charter is hoping to encourage dialogue in inner railway communities and educate one another. It is vital the railway upskills its thinking to ensure it is a safe space for colleagues and passengers.
The day is recommended for any seniority level or role, especially people managers, policy makers, or network group members. The event will provide tangible advice on how to nurture and support colleagues to obtain business diversity and growth; both internally and externally and hear from LGBTQ+ individuals currently working in rail. This workshop is recommended for individuals who feel intimidated by approaching LGBTQ+ issues in the workplace, and will be a safe space to discuss, network and challenge one another positively.
Following a successful representation at the recent London Pride, Network Rail’s LGBTQ Network group “Archway” will be presenting a case study on how the organisation has made improvements to the working lives of the LGBTQ+ community.
Darren Fodey, Rail Partner at Stephenson Harwood, has been confirmed as a keynote speaker, speaking about the importance of supporting diverse individuals within rail. Stephenson Harwood are also sponsoring a networking drinks reception following the event, demonstrating their commitment to being at the forefront of change and positive impact in the Diversity and Inclusion space.
Tom Flannery from SNC-Lavalin/Atkins will be leading a session on being an ally to colleagues from the LGBTQ+ community, and how heterosexual colleagues can offer solidarity and support to those at differing stages of their journeys.
Paul McGunnigle-White, EDI Working Group member and Treasury Manager at C2C will be chairing the event and sharing his personal experiences. There will be opportunity to ask questions in a group discussion with Working Group members at the end of the workshop.
For registration, please visit the RIA Website at https://www.riagb.org.uk/EventDetail?EventKey=PRIDE22 and reserve a place. The workshop will be followed by a sponsored drinks reception, which delegates who cannot make the course are welcome to attend. This will begin at 17:00 onwards.
In 2020, the Railway Industry Association (RIA) and Women in Rail (WR) launched a Charter to champion equality, diversity and inclusion in the UK railway industry.
The joint ‘Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Charter’ is a commitment to work together to build a more balanced, fair and high performing sector. This is a voluntary initiative, open to all companies, clients and organisations working in the UK rail sector who wish to play a role in promoting positive change in our industry. It seeks to recognise and build upon the progress which has already taken place, providing the basis to encourage further collaboration and action across the sector.
The Charter involves several key commitments, including to:
-Appoint a member of the senior leadership team as an ‘EDI Champion’
-Agree an action plan, monitor and report on progress made
-Provide opportunities for training and education of employees, support the progression of diverse individuals into senior roles to improve diverse representation at senior and executive level of the UK railway industry
-Create a culture that fosters inclusion and provide a safe space for all employees to talk openly, including at industry events and in meetings
-Make recruitment and progression processes accessible and attractive to all to attract retain and develop people of all backgrounds, ages, genders and identities
D/Gauge are active members of the charter working group, and Marketing Manager Mandeep Singh is the Vice-Chair. For any railway EDI related queries or questions, please feel free to get in touch by emailing mandeep.singh@dgauge.co.uk or telephone 07566793420.
