Essex Law firm staff receive LGBTQ+ Training

Tracy Martinez, the Training Co-ordinator from Outhouse East, came to Birkett Long’s offices to deliver three LGBTQ+ Awareness training sessions to staff.

The aim was to improve staff knowledge and understanding of the spectrum of gender and sexuality, and to raise awareness about the issues and barriers that colleagues, customers and clients are facing, whilst understanding how to deal with them sensitively. One of the most popular topics covered was how to approach gender pronouns.

Tracy, a retired Detective Inspector who was with Essex Police for over 30 years, spoke of her own experiences and issues that she has faced as a member of the LGBTQ+ community both in her personal and professional life. Tracy also spoke to staff about hate crimes and the resources available to report them and the support available to those that have suffered from Homo/Bi/Trans phobia and discrimination and bullying.

Outhouse East provides a number of services for the LGBTQ+ community and also offers training to businesses. Their mission is to develop and promote a sustainable, fair and equal society where all lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people can achieve their full potential.

Molly Frankham, a Solicitor in the Dispute Resolution team and Trustee of Outhouse East, said: “It is incredibly important that the professional world adapts and grows to recognise the LGBTQ+ community. Without realising it, the legal profession (and other professions) create barriers for the community in their information forms, their office space and the way in which they communicate and it is time those were broken down! I am very proud that Birkett Long is the first legal firm to have taken up the training from Outhouse, across all three offices – it truly demonstrates a dedication to achieving equality, for everyone.”

Tracy Martinez, of Outhouse East, said: “Birkett Long has shown a true commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and equality in attending this training. You cannot truly understand our needs if you do not understand our differences, accept us and treat us fairly and equally."

The contents of this blog are intended for general information purposes only and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in respect of this blog.
The contents of this article are intended for general information purposes only and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in respect of this article.