MHA is proud to celebrate LGBT History Month this February as part of our ongoing commitment to promoting equality and diversity within our services and workplaces.

The important movement offers an opportunity to reflect on how inclusive we are as a society. And for us in MHA, we support our colleagues, volunteers and those for whom we care for to feel confident in being truly themselves throughout all our homes, schemes and offices.

Speaking about MHA’s equality and diversity pledge, Chief Executive Sam Monaghan commented: “Whilst MHA and society more broadly may have made significant strides in this respect, I’ve heard from residents and colleagues of their uncertainty about how sharing that they are lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans may impact on the communities of which they are a part.

“I’ve heard from colleagues who have felt hesitant about talking about their life outside work, uncertain of the response they’d receive.

“But I’ve also heard of colleagues who have transitioned from female to male, whose teams have been so supportive during such a life-changing event and where residents have responded similarly.

“MHA aspires to be a place where people can be truly themselves and valued for all our differences. Inclusive in our behaviour, in our language and the imagery and environment in our homes and schemes.”

MHA is currently developing its Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy which will involve and seek the views and support of residents, colleagues and volunteers from right across the organisation.