Committed to LGBTQ+ inclusion
Supportive
1 in 5 insurers have specific policies in place to support their employees when they transition their gender identity
Championing LGBTQ+ inclusion
1/4 of ABI members have specific LGBTQ+ inclusion policy in the workplace
Inclusive
Over half of ABI members have a member of the executive team responsible for LGBTQ+ inclusion
The insurance and long-term savings industry is committed to championing LGBTQ+ inclusion and recognises that it is vital its colleagues feel confident to be their authentic selves at work. Sadly, a survey by Stonewall in 2018 found that fewer than half of LGBTQ+ employees say their senior managers demonstrate a visible commitment to LGBTQ+ equality, which is why our sector is taking targeted action to build a modern and diverse industry, where LGBTQ+ employees can excel. From a thriving industrywide network, Link, to the individual actions taken by ABI members and that’s why over half of ABI members have ensured an executive sponsor for LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Industry leaders who set an example
Representation is vital. Senior figures from ABI member companies named in the 2019 OUTstanding TOP 100 list of LGBTQ+ Executives include; Angela Darlington, Interim CEO UK Life Insurance, Aviva, Geoff Godwin, UK Chief Operating Officer, AIG and David Hynam, CEO, Bupa. Anthony Francis, Executive Business Manager, Lloyds Banking Group, was named as a vocal ally of the LGBT community in the workplace.
Creating a workplace for all to thrive
ABI member Admiral introduced its Equali-Tea party initiative, a tea party with a diversity and inclusion twist. The LGBTQ+ forum is eager to create a working environment where staff feel supported to bring their whole selves to work. The Equali-Tea parties are informal sessions designed to showcase the work the LGBTQ+ forum is undertaking and, celebrating the achievements of the forum and creating a positive space to share new ideas.
Networks championing diversity
Link is an industrywide network for members of the LGBT+ community who work in the insurance sector. The network has over 1250 members from across insurance and hosts regular networking, social, educational and formal industry events throughout the year. Link drives change by sharing best practices to improve workplaces that attract and retains the best LGBT+ talent to the insurance industry.
Supporting a diverse workforce
ABI member Aviva – also a Stonewall Top 100 employer, is part of The Diversity Project, creating a truly diverse and inclusive industry. The Diversity Project launched early 2016 with the aim to accelerate progress towards a more inclusive culture. The project is founded on the principle that an inclusive culture improves teamwork and creates a workplace where all can flourish.