SIG Achieves HouseProud Promise Pledge Standard Aimed at Improving the Lives of LGBTQ+ Residents

We are delighted to announce that Social Interest Group (SIG) is among the first organisations of its kind to join Stonewall Housing – HouseProud Accreditation Scheme. This opportunity fills us with pride as it aligns perfectly with our commitment to inclusivity, one of the core pillars of our organisational values.

Participating in this accreditation scheme is a significant step for us as a charity, reinforcing our dedication to adopting best practices and driving innovation in our service delivery. The HouseProud Pledge Scheme allows us to further develop our services by creating safe and supportive environments where residents and participants from the LGBTQIA+ community can express themselves, share their experiences, and influence our approach to care and support.

One of the standout aspects of this initiative is how it ensures LGBTQIA+ voices are heard at the executive and strategic levels. This includes establishing resident group meetings, conducting policy impact assessments, and appointing senior champions who advocate for LGBTQ+ issues. These steps are vital in shaping a user-friendly model that supports service delivery and staff training, ensuring our approach remains inclusive and representative.

Additionally, the HouseProud Pledge Scheme enhances collaboration with like-minded organisations, increasing the quality of support and broadening our staff’s knowledge of LGBTQ+ issues. This involves raising awareness through staff inductions, social media, and other communication channels to reinforce our commitment to inclusivity.

Our involvement in this scheme marks the beginning of an ongoing journey of accredited learning across a wide range of protected characteristics. We are committed to ensuring our staff, both frontline and central, seize this valuable opportunity to expand their knowledge and skills, further empowering them to support our mission of driving positive social change.

As we look forward to the next step in this journey, we are preparing to submit the necessary documents for the next phase of accreditation 12 months from now. In the meantime, we remain committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all, ensuring our services reflect the diversity and needs of those we support.

Norman Alcide, Equalities, Diversity & Inclusion Programme Manager