Paddy Lillis - Usdaw general secretary says: “Trans Awareness Week is all about raising the visibility of transgender and non-binary people and on Trans Day of Remembrance, we remember those who have lost their lives due to transphobic violence. Far too many trans and non-binary workers continue to experience hostility, stigma and unfair treatment just for being themselves in work.
“Usdaw reps make a real difference to trans members’ lives at work. As well as providing much-needed support at work for members transitioning, they also play a crucial role positively influencing workplace attitudes, cultures and behaviours and tailoring support so that employer policies are applied flexibly and sensitively to take account of the individual needs of the trans worker. Our reps stand up for workers facing discrimination and, in doing so, help to ensure workplaces are safe and inclusive for everyone.
“Everyone has the right to be themselves at work. Usdaw is committed to calling out transphobia and standing with our trans and non-binary members, colleagues and friends as active trans allies. This week’s trans awareness events help Usdaw to address the isolation trans members can experience within the workplace and raise awareness amongst members of trans members’ experiences and concerns.
Notes for editors:
Usdaw (Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers) is one of the fastest growing unions in the TUC and the UK's fifth biggest trade union with around 360,000 members. Most Usdaw members work in the retail sector, but the union also has many members in transport, distribution, food manufacturing, chemical industry and other trades www.usdaw.org.uk
Usdaw leaflet Changing Gender - Understanding the Issues: www.usdaw.org.uk/424
For Usdaw press releases visit: http://www.usdaw.org.uk/news and you can follow us on Twitter/X @UsdawUnion