Supporting LGBTQIA+ colleagues in STEM
The National Centre for Atmospheric Science (NCAS) Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Committee is responding on behalf of the organisation to the recent UK Supreme Court ruling on the Equality Act 2010. NCAS will work with our partner organisations to uphold the law, as we are required to do, and we will do so with support and compassion.
The NCAS EDI committee would like to reassure colleagues that NCAS will continue our current inclusive approach. We will continue to work with our host institutions, partners, and commissioned providers to ensure that there are safe, inclusive and accessible spaces and services for all of our colleagues, at all of our sites, and at all of our events.
We are committed to creating a sense of belonging at NCAS for all of our colleagues and partners. This means fostering an environment where everyone is accepted, valued, supported, and empowered, including those who wish to make, or have made changes to their gender identity.
As a values-based, science-led organisation, we prize diversity and the strength that it gives us. NCAS does not tolerate harassment, bullying, or discriminatory behaviour in relation to any protected characteristic, including trans identity or history, or on any other basis.
I want to move beyond staff feeling included. Everyone should have a sense of belonging at NCAS. For me, belonging means feeling comfortable to express my opinions and push accepted boundaries. At NCAS, my ideas are valued. I want everyone at NCAS to feel this comfortable in order for us to achieve our individual and collective potential.
– Lisa Banton, Head of People, EDI and Workforce Development
If you experience or witness any inappropriate language, bullying or harassment please contact your local HR team, your union representative, or the NCAS People Team to report concerns or request support.
“At NCAS, we will continue on our path to improve equality, diversity and inclusion, committing to treating our staff fairly and promoting a workplace where everyone feels like they belong. We strive to develop new approaches through our EDI Living Action Plan to ensure that staff from diverse backgrounds and experiences can flourish,” says Jacqui Hamilton, Science Director.
5 ways to support your LGBTQIA+ colleagues
- Diversify your social media feed. Your activity on social media can help foster a more inclusive research environment.
- Actively seek out LGTBQIA+ voices to help understand new concepts, perspectives and ideas.
- Embrace inclusive language and gender pronouns. If you make a mistake, apologise, correct it, learn from it and move on.
- Get involved with community events as an ally.
- Recognise and champion diverse role models where you can.
We are aware that a number of our partners are currently reviewing the provision of facilities and services to ensure compliance with the court ruling. Please contact the NCAS People Team if any changes raise any issues or concerns for you at your work location.