CEO Insights - Why Pride Matters More Than Ever
Donna Richards | CEO
Each year, Pride offers an opportunity to celebrate progress, visibility and community. But this year, perhaps more than ever, it also serves as a timely reminder that inclusion cannot be taken for granted.
Across society, conversations around identity, equality and belonging have become more complex and, at times, more polarised. In that context, Pride is not just a celebration it is a statement of support and intent.
At Carpenters Group, we believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and able to bring their whole selves to work. That belief is not new, but it is one we continue to strengthen and evolve. Inclusion is not something that is ever “done”; it requires constant attention, honest reflection and a willingness to learn.
For me, this is both a professional and personal commitment. As someone with a rainbow family, I have seen first-hand the importance of acceptance and understanding not only in workplaces, but in wider society. I understand how much it matters when people feel seen and supported, and equally, the impact when they do not. I am grateful that perspective shapes how I lead and how I think about the role businesses can and should play.
We are proud that Carpenters Group continues to champion inclusion, not just in words but through action. Over the past year, this commitment has been recognised externally, most notably through our success at the British LGBT Awards.
Being acknowledged at such a prestigious event is something we are incredibly proud of, but more importantly, it reflects the collective efforts of our colleagues across the business. We don’t ever enter ourselves in awards and so it is always extra special if we are nominated. The awards signal progress, but the real measure of success is the everyday experience of our people.
Creating an inclusive culture is about behaviours and leadership at every level. It is about ensuring that our teams feel confident to speak up, to challenge and to support one another. It is about really listening to different perspectives, especially when those perspectives are unfamiliar.
I have always believed in leading with curiosity and that means recognising that none of us has all the answers. I am continually learning, about language, about lived experiences, about the ways in which we can better support our colleagues. Sometimes that learning involves getting things wrong, reflecting and doing better next time. That is all part of the journey and I encourage others to approach it in the same spirit.
Progress not perfection is a useful mantra. It means showing up, learning and being willing to adapt. In a fast-changing world, that ability to evolve is more important than ever.
The legal and insurance sectors have an important role to play here. We work with people at some of the most challenging moments in their lives, and that responsibility demands understanding and fairness. Our commitment to inclusion directly supports our ability to deliver for our clients, ensuring that we treat everyone with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or identity.
Internally, we continue to build on our foundations by supporting colleague networks, creating space for dialogue and inclusive practices across our processes. Externally, we remain committed to using our voice and platform to advocate for positive change within our industry and communities.
My hope for the wider business community is that we approach Pride with a sense of responsibility and humility. That we recognise the privilege and influence we hold and use it to create environments where everyone can thrive.
