STUDENT LOANS COMPANY MARKS LGBT+ MILESTONE

SLC’s LGBT+ network celebrates its one year anniversary during this year’s LGBT History Month.

Over 100 people from SLC offices in Glasgow, Darlington and Llandudno have signed up to the network since it launched last February with the number expected to grow in the year ahead.

Gary Stevenson, Co-Chair of the network said:

“It’s been a really busy first year and the response to the network has been inspiring.  More than 60 people showed their support in joining us at Pride Glasgow and Northern Pride Parades last year.  Our colleagues in Wales were empowered to hold their own on-site Pride event at their office too.”

Staff also showed support by contributing to the network’s fundraising efforts for local LGBT+ charities by taking part in bake sales, charity football matches and quiz nights.

Morven Spalding, Director of HR added:

“It’s fantastic to see the organisation readily engage with the network.  In keeping with LGBT History Month, some of the network’s activities have really helped to shine a light on various aspects of LGBT+ life.  The network’s ‘Let’s Chat’ drop-in sessions ran across all of our sites and gave staff the opportunity to drop in to discuss, listen and ask questions on different aspects of LGBT+ life such as the Transgender Day of Remembrance from different people within the community.“

Support for the network and community goes all the way to the top at the company as CEO Paula Sussex recently demonstrated when she met with LGBT+ students from Northumbria University.  She was invited to have her photograph taken with the university’s Proud Ally sign as part of a campaign to celebrate influential individuals who stand for equality in the student populace.

Karl Robson, Vice President Education, Northumbria Student’s Union said: