Leading Irish companies met today for the first time to discuss how they can support transgender employees in their workplaces. The seminar “Creating Transgender Inclusive Workplaces” is jointly organised by GLEN Diversity Champions programme and Transgender Equality Network Ireland (TENI).

TENI

“Increasingly diverse workforces mean that employers need to upskill themselves to ensure that all their employees are treated with respect. This is good for their employees and for their business and it sets a strong signal that their workplaces are inclusive of everyone. This seminar brings employers together for the first time to understand how to support their transgender employees.” said Davin Roche, Director at Diversity Champions, Ireland’s network of employers committed to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender diversity and inclusion at work.

TENI’s recent ‘Speaking from the Margins’ report showed that 43% of trans people had experienced problems at work as a result of their trans identity or trans history.

Broden Giambrone, Chief Executive of TENI, said today that “this seminar is a wonderful opportunity to show the ways in which employers can bring about positive change. The workplace can be, and is, a hugely difficult place for trans people. Inclusion often fails to fully acknowledge the reality of trans experiences or trans identities, so this is a great opportunity for employers to be truly inclusive. By taking positive steps, employers can create positive and inclusive work environments that benefit their entire workforce.”

Speaking at today’s seminar Sara Phillips, Area Sales Manager Tremco illbruck spoke of her workplace experience during her transition – “The fact that Tremco took a positive, respectful and authoritative view to my transition was, without doubt, intrinsically linked to the successful outcome. Diversity can bring benefits. Clients understand that if a company treats its employees properly, It will treat its clients properly also”

Debbie Mullerworth, Human Resources Manager, Tremco illbruck

“Attracting and retaining talent is a challenge that every Company has to face. By having an inclusive workplace, one where employees are recognised and valued regardless of their gender identity, brings great benefits to a Company. We want staff to feel respected and enabled to be themselves and by removing the barriers that prevent them from doing so will increase engagement, motivation and productivity – this is turn can only have a positive impact on the Company, helping it go from strength to strength”.

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