TransPennine Express conductor supports his fellow LGBTQ+ colleagues this Pride month

Rhys Blamey is a conductor based in Glasgow for TransPennine Express and is riding the rails with Pride this month in support of his fellow LGBTQ+ colleagues.

Rhys is part of TransPennine Express' LGBTQ+ network, which aims to support diversity and inclusion throughout the organisation, making the rail sector a more inclusive environment.

Rhys said:

“I joined the rail industry about a year and a half ago. Since then, I have really enjoyed becoming part of the team at TPE and the LGBTQ+ network.”

“From my very first time on shift, I have always felt supported and welcomed by my colleagues.

“As a gay man, I have never had any trouble expressing myself and who I am at work. I have always felt safe and included.”

Rhys is a passionate member of the LGBTQ+ community and aims to create safe and welcoming spaces for all passengers, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Rhys also said:

“I will admit, I was pleasantly surprised at how inclusive the rail industry is. This inclusivity is one of the factors that drew me to joining the LGBTQ+ network.”

“I think it's important for companies to have these networks as it provides a visibility group of LGBTQ+ community members and allies who are there to offer support and guidance to their fellow colleagues, whatever part of the diversity umbrella they fall under.”

“A simple chat could make a big difference to someone who's struggling with their own identity or questioning whether they want to express themselves at work.”

“A priority of the networking group is to ensure no one has to suffer in silence and that every colleague and every customer knows they have a safe space to be themselves.”

Harriet Harbidge, Diversity and Inclusion Manager for TPE, said:

“While June marks Pride Month, we strive to create an inclusive environment at TPE year-round.

“We work closely with our LGBTQ+ networking group, where our colleagues can have their say on what's most important to them and endeavour to create a welcoming environment for all.”

TransPennine Express is taking important steps in promoting both diversity and inclusion this Pride Month by creating a ‘Pride Pack' which has been distributed to colleagues across its network. The pack aims to educate, offer guidance, provide information on the history of Pride Month and detail how colleagues can become intentional allies of the LGBTQ+ community.

To find out more about TransPennine Express' ongoing work to support diversity and inclusion, click here.