Content provided by Lincolnshire Co-operative.

This month, Lincolnshire Co-op are sharing inspiring stories from LGBTQ+ colleagues to celebrate #PrideMonth and foster safe, inclusive spaces across the convenience sector. The stories are being shared across internal channels such as their colleague app and magazine, as well as some external channels such as LinkedIn and instore radio. This is in celebration of their LGBTQ+ colleagues, and demonstrates inclusion and allyship across the business, while also raising awareness of issues that continue to affect the community.

Last year, the Society attended their third Lincoln Pride. This year, they are expanding to support three local parades from across their trading area. Supported by the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion lead and the Community Team, the events are being planned by a volunteer team of LGBTQ+ colleagues and allies, and include an interactive display created by Lincolnshire Co-op’s Floristry Team. The society are encouraging everyone to get involved by volunteering at their local event, sharing their experiences as part of the LGBTQ+ community or as an ally on the colleague app, or by learning about how we can all support each other every day.

Lincolnshire Co-op are also in the early stages of helping colleagues to set up an LGBTQ+ Support Network and will continue to support their LGBTQ+ colleagues each and every day of the year.

Julie Haycraft, a Solution Delivery Analyst with the Lincolnshire Co-op, is part of the planning team for Pride;

"Previous to joining the society I had to hide a part of myself as I was in the army, and being gay resulted in dismissal. However, I was eventually dismissed due to my sexual orientation. Since joining Lincolnshire Coop I have been able to be myself and over my time here I can see that things are changing for the better. Now, I see our business celebrating Pride Month and participating in Pride events. And soon, we'll have colleague networks to support and connect us. It's not just about recognition—it's about feeling seen and valued every day. I’m proud to be part of a business that's learning and growing, and making sure that every one of us truly belongs. Lincolnshire Coop, thank you for moving forward with us."

ACS are continuing to share what convenience stores are doing throughout Pride month to support the LGBTQ+ community across social media, with more updates coming soon.  We will also be reaching out to any members who would be interested in shaping how ACS supports the LGBTQ+ community going forward. If you would like to take part in this conversation, or if you have any colleagues who might be interested, please reach out to Rosie, Amber, or Anna.