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prode in what we do

OUR STORIES

REUBEN CLARKE
Three members of our Pride Committee discuss their
emotions on being LGBTQ+ and their experiences at Cadent

VINCENT RYAN However, since joining Cadent,
nothing could be further from my
belief. I have never felt more supported
in a career. Time is given for me to do
nursery drop-offs and pick-ups, and I
have been offered opportunities that
champion my professional ability,
rather than question my ability given
I juggle single family life with a busy
professional life.
It is inspiring to see conversations
starting to take place around diversity
and inclusion, and with the right Why is being an LGBTQ+ inclusive
approach and education, we can move employer important? Well, for me,
forward to be an employer where it makes or breaks my relationship
uniqueness is celebrated, which will with an employer. I have worked for
remove the fear of staying hidden for companies that I did not feel I could
Just over 50 years ago, I would have fear of rejection. Change is possible. be ‘out’ at and this made me unhappy
been arrested in the UK for promoting and careful about what I said. I felt
the fact I was a gay male. Back then, that I could not be my true self and
it was inconceivable to think that gay AMBER DENMAN this, in turn, meant I contributed less
people had the right to love, cohabit to the organisation.
or even publicly show affection to I have also worked for organisations
anyone of the same sex. that have diversity and inclusion
Can you even begin to imagine the groups, and state in their job adverts
consequences for same-sex couples they are an equal opportunities
or single gay people being given the employer, but when it comes down
right to care for or adopt children who to the day-to-day, they miss the
lack the two fundamental needs of all important things and instead treat
human beings: to be loved, and cared inclusion as a box-ticking activity.
for? It was a reality far from anyone’s I can happily say Cadent is not one
mind at that time. of those companies, the attitude here
Fast forward to present day and the has allowed me to be my true self.
opportunities open to the LGBTQ+ More people at Cadent know I am gay
community are evident when it comes and married to a man than members
to practising the desire of most human of my own family.
beings on this planet; to be a carer or As well as the individual benefits
potential parent to a child who needs I have been with my partner for nearly that being an LGBTQ+ friendly
stability and love. 13 years now. She has a son - the best employer provides to employees,
It is thanks to the many people stepson anyone could ask for - and there are also business benefits.
before my time who fought for the she is more than amazing. Inclusive policies and practices can
right of equality that allowed me, as I found it extremely easy to share attract candidates and customers
35-year-old single gay male when my sexuality with my colleagues at who want to work with socially
I started my journey, to care for an Cadent as I could see how inclusive responsible businesses.
amazing baby boy whilst building a the company is. Yes, it is always a LGBTQ+ people are more prone
career for myself. little scary to ‘come out’ to people you to be brand loyal. According to a
There was always a worry when I don’t know; you are scared of what survey by Harris Interactive, 87
started this journey that employers people will think, what people will per cent of LGBTQ+ adults would
would view me less favourably for any say. But everyone I have met within consider purchasing from a brand
promotion opportunities, given the Cadent has been so welcoming of my that provided equal workplace
fact I was on my own with Alfie. sexuality. I am so lucky to be part of benefits. The survey also found that
That, coupled with being a gay such a diverse company and to be 23 per cent of LGBTQ+ adults have
male, made me believe that my part of the Pride at Work Committee switched products or services because
desire to succeed professionally to ensure everyone that works for another company was more LGBTQ+
would be hindered massively by Cadent feels as comfortable and supportive – even if that brand was
wanting to be a parent. welcomed as I did. more expensive or less convenient.

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