The Out Front network was established in 2012 with the express purpose of connecting, supporting and developing LGBT+ colleagues across DWF and to help promote a positive, inclusive working environment globally.
As a Chair of the Committee, alongside UK-based Co-Chair Terri Schofield, Randeep, will focus on engaging international colleagues, mentoring and supporting the development of our LGBT+ leaders. Randeep as the International Chair will also play a key role in facilitating the growth of Out Front across the DWF network and supporting positive global mobility practices for LGBT+ staff.
Randeep commented “As a straight ally to the LGBT+ community, the easy choice is to think “this doesn’t affect me, so I don’t care”, however, the much harder, and in my opinion, right approach, is to stand up and help those who are affected. This philosophy spurred my desire to be involved in Out Front. I want to be able to do what I can to provide a work environment in which everyone feels included and accepted for who they are, and to help DWF to become a global leader in this regard.”
The Out Front Committee will take tangible steps forward on an international level such as improving the ‘LGBT confidential service’ (a secure contact point for anyone who would like to discuss LGBT+ issues on an informal and completely confidential basis) and improving on existing LGBT+ awareness training. Randeep will play a pivotal role in ensuring these measures, initiatives and values are implemented and instilled on an international scale, particularly in the rapidly growing Australian DWF business.
In the UK DWF is a Stonewall Diversity Champion and was recently recognised as a StoneWall Top 100 employer, ranking 59th in the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index.
Randeep concluded, “Everyone is different, but at the end of the day, we are all human and we all need to be aware, take responsibility, and be held accountable for our words, actions and behaviour, and the impact it has on others. I’m proud to be at a firm such as DWF that thinks the same way.”