WorldSkills UK has welcomed the launch of the UK’s first qualification to promote positive interaction with lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBT) people in the workplace by Awarding Organisation Skillsfirst Awards.
The ‘Level 2 Certificate in LGBT Inclusion in the Workplace’ has been developed by a team of more than 120 experts and is aimed at people working in all sectors.
The syllabus includes LGBT history and culture as well as organisational policies and legislation affecting people who identify as LGBT. Learners will also explore the impact of language, stereotyping and assumptions relating to LGBT and consider how to contribute to maintaining a supportive workplace environment.
Dr Neil Bentley-Gockmann OBE, WorldSkills UK Chief Executive said:
“Being authentic in life and work is challenging for everyone, but it is also incredibly important, particularly for those of us who identify as LGBT+. Being yourself at work, stopping policing your pronouns and being able to talk about your personal life as much as your colleagues, brings real benefits to workplace performance at any level of an organisation.
“That’s why I welcome this ground-breaking qualification. This is all about building confidence in creating inclusive workplaces so people who identify as LGBT can thrive. And when employees thrive, employers do too – with increased levels of loyalty and productivity. And a commitment that signals an inclusive approach to LGBT inclusion will support recruitment, particularly for young people on apprenticeships.
Rights, respect and recognition for people who identify as LGBT+ have come an incredibly long way in the UK over the past 50 years. However, we cannot be complacent, there is still much more that we still need to do and this qualification is an important step towards ever greater workplace inclusion. Well done to Skillsfirst Awards for this ground breaking initiative.
Skillsfirst Awards have planned a number of events early in 2020 to help train people who want to deliver the qualification. They are also developing further qualifications for the Care and Schools sectors and a suite of resources to support delivery.
