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Looking forward to Manchester Pride

Brian Morgan-Scrutton

UNISON Full Time Trade Union Rep and Identity+ Lead

23 Aug 2018

Trade Union Rep at United Utilities, Brian Morgan-Scrutton, talks about his role in leading our Identity LGBT+ network, why it’s important to the culture at United Utilities and how the team are preparing for Manchester Pride.

I’m proud to be one of the founding members of Identity+, the LGBT+, network here at United Utilities. It’s over four years since we formed the network and now, with over 150 members, we’re going from strength to strength. It’s a real testament to the effort of members and the backing of the senior leadership team here at United Utilities.

The network was set up to create a safe, inclusive and diverse working environment, it’s open to all employees who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or those who have a positive interest in driving equality. It’s a real thriving community with regular events and discussions about key topics that affect the LGBT+ community at work.

We’re fast approaching one of the main LGBT+ events in the North West in Manchester Pride, it’s an event that the whole network looks forward to attending. In the first couple of years that Identity+ existed our attendance was quite low key so it was fantastic to get backing in 2017 from our sponsor, Louise Beardmore, to represent the business at the main parade. I’m delighted to say that this year we’ll be following on the success of last year and will be bringing some of our fabulous characters to life on our Circus of Acceptance float – it’s Show Time!!

It’s been great fun getting into the circus theme and some of the characters we’ll have on display will be sure to bring a smile to the parade. We’ll also be teaming up with Refill this year to promote reusable water bottles. The refill app allows you to find free water refill stations around towns and cities across the UK.

The parade takes place on Saturday 25 August and it promises to be one of the events of the year in Manchester. So, if you’re around, head down and say hello to the team, collect your reusable water pouch and enjoy the day!