We were delighted to be at this year’s Bristol Pride – taking part in its annual parade for the first time.
Following our participation in Manchester Pride in 2023, members of our LGBTQIA+ network, PLUS, proudly marched the streets of Bristol this year, alongside 25,000 others, celebrating love, unity and inclusivity, and protesting for the rights of all.
As the official Volunteer Partner this year, we’re also delighted to support the vital work Bristol Pride does all year round. And as well as marching on the day, some of our colleagues, including members of our recruitment team, were in the expo
area providing guidance on potential careers with us, and promoting our organisation as an inclusive employer – the team was so pleased to see a huge amount of visitors to our stand, and to have such fantastic interactions throughout the day.
PLUS, which stands for Pride, Love, Unity and Support, is our LGBTQIA+ network and internal community. Formed five years ago, the network brings together LGBTQIA+ colleagues and their allies, connecting like-minded colleagues, and raising awareness on
issues of sexual orientation and gender identity in the workplace. From 70 founding members, the network has grown to almost 600 people (and counting!).
“We were honoured to walk the streets of Bristol with 25,000 others this year. We chose Bristol Pride as another fantastic opportunity to bring our community members together, along with our allies. This year it seems more important than ever to
highlight the importance of the march. We had a fantastic team of people who joined us, and the festivities continued in the early evening with a fabulous festive vibe, thank you Bristol Pride, you did us proud” Amanda Snee, Senior Bid Manager and Co-chair of the PLUS network.
“This year we took to the streets of Bristol to show our pride in all its glory. The PLUS Network members came out in full force to celebrate diversity, inclusivity, and really show that Sopra Steria is a truly inclusive workplace that does more
than just write it on a piece of paper. The current climate is especially challenging for the LGBTQIA+ community, making the march stand for more than just a celebration. I am super proud of all The PLUS Network has achieved, and for everyone's efforts
and enthusiasm on the day – here's to next year!” Dean Bland, Senior Business Consultant and Co-chair of the PLUS network.
“It’s fantastic that our colleagues have marched again, this time in Bristol Pride. Representing and supporting the communities in which we work and serve is something that really matters to our organisation. And making sure our workforce
is as inclusive, as it is diverse, is incredibly important. It makes us a stronger organisation, enriching the work we do, and it means our people can be their authentic selves and are celebrated for it. Action with intention is how we achieve all
of this, and I’m proud that marching in Pride celebrations in cities across the UK is becoming an important annual event in our calendar.” Adrian Fieldhouse, Managing Director (Government and Transport) and Executive Sponsor of the PLUS network.