In December, we proudly made the “Pledge Promise” to the LGBTQ+ Housing Pledge by HouseProud. Building on this foundation, we are actively embedding inclusive practices and addressing areas for development to achieve the ‘Pledge Pioneer’ standard, further solidifying our dedication to inclusivity.
Understanding the LGBTQ+ Housing Pledge
Developed collaboratively by HouseProud and the University of Surrey, with invaluable input from customers, staff members, and sector leaders, the LGBTQ+ Housing Pledge addresses critical needs within the housing sector.
Research by HouseProud highlighted significant disparities, revealing that a considerable proportion of trans residents feel unsafe in their communities, and many LGBTQ+ individuals feel the need to conceal their identities from housing professionals. This pledge serves as a framework for housing providers like Pine Court to proactively enhance the safety and wellbeing of our LGBTQ+ customers.
Our path to becoming a “Pledge Pioneer”
Pine Court is undertaking a comprehensive review to identify opportunities for growth and implement meaningful changes:
- Empowering LGBTQ+ voices in shaping our services: We are committed to ensuring that the lived experiences of our LGBTQ+ customers directly influence our services. We are actively engaging with our LGBTQ+ customers to gather their insights and understand how we can better tailor our homes and support to meet their needs.
- Championing LGBTQ+ visibility and support: Pine Court is dedicated to actively supporting the LGBTQ+ communities. This includes celebrating Pride events, supporting the Navajo Awards, and proudly sponsoring Inclusion FC, an LGBTQ+ football team, alongside an Inclusion FC Family Fun Day.
- Investing in LGBTQ+ awareness training for our colleagues: To cultivate a truly inclusive culture, we recognise the importance of equipping all our team members with the knowledge and understanding necessary to provide respectful services to all our customers.
As a prominent minority ethnic housing provider in the Liverpool City Region, Pine Court Housing Association deeply understands the importance of inclusivity and is steadfast in our commitment to creating welcoming, safe, and equitable communities for everyone, including our LGBTQ+ customers. We are proud to align ourselves with the principles of the LGBTQ+ Housing Pledge and embark on this journey towards becoming a ‘Pledge Pioneer’.
