Pledging a more inclusive future for our customers

Published: 5/12/2024

We are proud to announce that we have officially made the “Pledge Promise” to the LGBTQ+ Housing Pledge by HouseProud. We commit to supporting LGBTQ+ customers to feel safe and secure in their communities

What is the LGBTQ+ Housing Pledge?

The LGBTQ+ Housing Pledge was developed by HouseProud and the University of Surrey, in collaboration with customers, staff members and sector leaders. This pledge aims to address the issues raised by the findings of ‘No Place Like Home?’, the largest study to understand the LGBTQ+ experiences of social housing.

Why is the pledge necessary?

Despite the changes in law and the growing inclusivity in society, LGBTQ+ customers continue to face discrimination in their daily lives. HouseProud’s research revealed that 60% of trans customers did not feel safe in their neighbourhoods, while 1 in 5 gay men reported hiding their sexual orientation from an operative or housing officer. With this pledge, we will take the necessary steps to improve the lives and homes of our LGBTQ+ customers.

What’s next?

Over the coming months, we will collaborate with HouseProud to conduct a thorough gap analysis. This process will involve our customers, employees and board members to successfully identify areas for improvement and implement the necessary actions. This will enable us to move forward and fulfil this pledge.