LGBTQ Ally Workshop

How to be an effective LGBTQ Ally – what can I actually do?

This workshop seeks to go beyond considering what an Ally is to discuss what practical steps we can take to be really effective Allies. Having knowledge, being understanding, challenging inappropriate behaviours are all important, but how do we actually do that? What do we say, what can we do when we get it wrong; how can we pre-empt behaviour which might prevent an LGBTQ person from coming out or encourage them to leave or deter them from applying in the first place? What practically can we do to ensure inclusivity, diversity and how can we contribute to making the university a great place to work and study for all LGBTQ people?

Who should attend?

• Those who have attended the University of Birmingham LGBTQ Allies introductory induction workshop
• Anyone who’d like to develop their effectiveness as an Ally especially in the workplace.
• People who consider themselves Allies to other protected characteristics.

The session will be run by Sean Russell of Get Out Stay Out. Based in Birmingham, Sean is a freelance consultant and trainer specialising in LGBTQ topics in HE. His work includes the curriculum, setting up the LGBTQ Mentoring and Allies schemes for UoB and speaking at conferences including Stonewall. He is an adviser to the national staff HE LGBT Network of Networks fora and the equivalent Midlands NHS fora. Further details of his work can be found on his website. Sean is also a qualified Executive Coach and works with senior managers in HE. Sean has held senior management positions in student services in three universities including Director of Careers and Student Development and Diversity. He is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Open to University of Birmingham staff allies. Registration required.