Guest Blog – Straight Allies Programme

This month we have two guest bloggers for the price of one! Doug Milne, Garioch Area Manager and Caroline Tough, Project Officer (Equalities) have recently been appointed as Straight Allies for Aberdeenshire Council.
Straight Allies recognise that lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) people can perform better if they can be themselves, and use their role within the Council to create a culture where this can happen.

Straight Allies Programmestraight allies

Senior Straight Ally Doug said: “Aberdeenshire Council is committed to the development of a more inclusive culture for LGB employees. Statistically, most employees are likely to be straight – so it’s absolutely essential that everyone has a good understanding of why LGB equality is important.”

Caroline: “Equalities is something that I am really passionate about. LGB is one of the nine protected characteristics which we are integrating into the day to day workings of the Council so I am delighted to be taking part in this programme. My two younger brothers are gay and through them I have some understanding of what it means to be LGB.”

Straight Allies help to tackle feelings of isolation or fear that might exist, particularly in operational environments and offer a point of contact for employees and managers who are seeking support in relation to LGB issues. Straight Allies will be able to listen, as well as be visible and approachable throughout the organisation.

Doug added: “Two of my best friends are gay and by talking about these sort of things very positively in the office helps to accustom people to an area which is not always openly discussed. And that is what this programme is all about- making colleagues feel comfortable so that they can be open about who they are if they chose to.”

More information about the role of a Straight Ally you can read the following document on Arcadia. If you would like to become part of the Straight Ally Programme, please email equalities@aberdeenshire.gov.uk. Anyone who wishes to contact Doug or Caroline, here are their details:  doug.milne@aberdeenshire.gov.uk or by phone on 01467 628222 or caroline.tough@aberdeenshire.gov.uk or by phone on 01224 664530.