27/06/22: Breckland Council supporting Pride all year round

As Pride month draws to a close, Breckland Council has held a Pride walk around Dereham to help show support for the LGBTQ+ community.

It is the latest in a series of awareness raising activities as part of the council's commitment to promote inclusivity and acceptance in the workplace and across the district, not just during Pride month but throughout the year.

The global Pride movement aims to increase acceptance and equality in society, regardless of people's sexuality. It raises awareness of LGBTQ+ issues, educates on LGBTQ+ history and celebrates the work of members of the LGBTQ+ community and supporters.

As an ally of the LGBTQ+ community, over the last four weeks Breckland Council has taken the opportunity to show its support publicly and help raise awareness of key issues. Led by a staff working group, the council has raised the Pride flag at its offices, shared information about the Pride campaign on its social media channels, decorated council offices in Pride rainbow colours, and talked with stakeholders about how they can make workplaces more inclusive for all.

As part of its Breckland Cares programme, the council has also previously reviewed and implemented new staff policies to ensure it is an equal opportunities employer and welcoming to members of the LGBTQ+ community.  In Breckland Council's Dereham office unisex toilets are in operation, a move which was praised by Norwich Pride organisers for being progressive and modern. Guest speakers have also been invited to talk to council staff on the local LGBTQ+ community in Norfolk.

Cllr Paul Hewett, LGBTQ+ champion at Breckland Council, commented: "I am immensely proud of our work this year and in previous years to ensure the council is inclusive and welcoming to all members of our communities and our staff.

"Pride month is an important focal point for showing support and I'm pleased we've been so visible an ally for the movement throughout June. However, we also recognise that there is always more we can do to help tackle LGBTQ+ issues and as an organisation we are firmly committed to working with our partners and communities to support LGBTQ+ issues 365 days a year."