03 December 2009

Out@Work Day

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.

Professor Dominic Shellard, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, said: “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!”

Rosie Valerio, Director of HRM, said: “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.”

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.

If you wish to be included in our online exhibition which aims to showcase and celebrate our diversity, you can still submit your profile by contacting outatwork@sheffield.ac.uk