Sexual orientation
MHA promotes equality and inclusion for people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans or any identity associated with sexual orientation or gender.
- At MHA we use “LGBTQ+” as an inclusive term for people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, or any other diverse gender or sexual identity
- We celebrate every background as part of what we do and therefore we encourage everyone to share their sexual orientation and gender identity as part of our people monitoring process.
Pride in MHA
We have a very active Pride in MHA Network for our workforce and volunteers. The Network brings together colleagues and volunteers who have a passion for promoting equality for all and specifically for the LGBTQ+ communities. The group is not exclusive to colleagues and volunteers who identify as LGBTQ+ but also includes and welcomes colleagues who are heterosexual/straight allies.
Straight allies
Allies are straight people who have an interest in promoting Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBTQ+) equality.
They play a critical role in creating inclusive and supportive environments. Their involvement can have a transformative effect on the culture of an organisation for both LGBTQ+ colleagues and those that identify as straight (heterosexual) colleagues.
At MHA, straight Allies will:
- Champion and promote LGBT equality
- Be a listening ear to work colleagues that may want to talk to someone
- Challenge homophobic language and behaviors in the workplace
- Raise awareness of LGBTQ+ issues with straight work colleagues in an informal way
- Support MHA’s LGBTQ+ events.