As a leading LGBTQ+ charity, it is Manchester Pride’s aim to challenge discrimination and champion diversity and inclusion for all. Dedicated to ensuring workplaces are diverse and inclusive, the All Equals Charter by Manchester Pride stands tall as a pivotal force driving change. Joining Manchester Pride at the forefront, Bruntwood’s commitment stands as testament to the Charter’s ability to shape workplaces into bastions of inclusivity and equality.

Bruntwood embarked on a transformative journey in 2022, initially achieving accreditation at the Good Practice level. However, their unwavering commitment to championing equality, diversity and inclusion led them to achieve the prestigious Role Model status in August 2023 — a testament to their steadfast commitment to developing a more inclusive work environment.

Bruntwood's dedication to the values and principles of the All Equals Charter extends far beyond passive endorsement; their proactive engagement and commitment have been integral to their ascent to Role Model status. Actively advocating for inclusivity, they utilise various platforms such as their app, social media channels, events, and direct communication with their networks and clients to propagate the values enshrined within the Charter. Furthermore, their consistent attendance and enthusiastic involvement in the Charter’s exclusive monthly members meet-ups underline their commitment to continuous improvement and collaborating with Greater Manchester’s business community.

Bruntwood took a significant step forward by co-creating a resource dedicated to trans inclusion, designed to aid and benefit fellow members of the All Equals Charter. This action showcases their commitment to not only bettering their own practices but also sharing their knowledge and resources to uplift and support broader community initiatives. These efforts exemplify their proactive stance in promoting an inclusive environment beyond their organisation's boundaries.

Taking on board recommendations from the All Equals Charter team in 2022, Bruntwood implemented a range of strategic measures. This included robust processes aimed at monitoring and combating instances of bullying, harassment, and hate incidents involving customers and suppliers. Simultaneously, their staff received comprehensive training in hate crime reporting, equipping them with the tools to effectively address and prevent discriminatory incidents within the workplace.

In addition, Bruntwood developed the intersectionality of their policies, introducing new frameworks specifically tailored to address the nuanced needs of staff across varying marginalisations. This strategic revamp of policies was complemented by an expanded range of staff educational programs, featuring specialised anti-racism training and a dedicated trans inclusion event. Notably, these efforts culminated in a substantial increase in LGBTQ+ representation within their workforce.

These multifaceted initiatives emphasise Bruntwood's holistic approach to creating a workplace environment that not only champions diversity and inclusion but actively nurtures it at every level of the organisation.

Maddi Burns-Hunt, Head of Talent at Bruntwood, reflected on their progress: "To receive Role Model status from Manchester Pride's All Equals Charter, just twelve months after we were awarded Good Practice, is an incredible milestone for our D&I agenda at Bruntwood. We are firmly committed to fostering an environment where colleagues can bring their true selves to work, and we want to attract a diverse range of talent which is reflective of the vibrant cities in which we operate.”

Bruntwood’s commitment extends beyond altruism, recognising the tangible benefits of a diverse workforce in driving productivity and innovation.

“Not only is this the right thing to do, but it makes commercial sense, too — people perform at their best when they are happy and comfortable coming to work.” Maddi continued.

Bruntwood’s success was in part due to allowing the People & Talent team to be led by their LGBTQ+ colleagues, learning from those with lived experience to shape the culture in an authentic and sustainable way.

Aaron Boxley, Co-Chair and Co-Founder of the Bruntwood LGBTQIA+ Network, said: “Looking back on the past year I can honestly say I have never felt more valued and celebrated as a queer person in my workplace. Serving as co-chair of the LGBTQIA+ Network has afforded queer employees the opportunity to instigate tangible changes within Bruntwood.

“Witnessing the dedication and passion displayed by everyone involved has been nothing short of awe-inspiring. I consider myself extremely fortunate to work closely with colleagues who share an unwavering commitment to bettering the lives of LGBTQIA+ individuals.”

Christopher Owen, Inclusivity Development Manager at Manchester Pride, worked closely with Bruntwood during the All Equals Charter accreditation process and commented: “Role Model accreditation is not easily earned. I was impressed by the organisation’s authentic commitment to intersectional liberation and inclusion.

Bruntwood leveraged their influence outside of their own ecosystem, working with charity partners to support intersectional groups including LGBTQ+ youth and trans communities.

“It is very evident that the team at Bruntwood have worked incredibly hard this year to cover every base possible, considering all marginalised communities in every area of their business, from colleagues to customers to communities.” Christopher continued.

Bruntwood's achievement of Role Model status with the All Equals Charter serves as an inspiration, not just within their sector but across industries. Their dedication to fostering an inclusive workplace sets a high standard for other organisations, encouraging them to embrace intersectional inclusion, make meaningful changes and drive impactful transformations within their communities.