How to support LGBTQ employees with inclusive benefits

Feeling supported and respected in the workplace is crucial for the well-being and productivity of LGBTQ people. One powerful way to demonstrate your company’s support is through comprehensive benefits tailored to their unique needs. 

In this blog we'll discuss how to support LGBTQ employees in the workplace and suggest effective strategies for providing them with benefits that give a sense of belonging.

Creating an inclusive workplace

Inclusive workplaces are more productive, innovative, and attractive to top talent. When employees feel valued for who they are, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, they're more likely to bring their whole selves to work, leading to greater job satisfaction and retention.

Furthermore, providing a supportive environment for LGBTQ employees isn't just about meeting legal requirements, it's about doing what's right. By creating a culture of acceptance and respect, organisations can create a positive impact not only on their employees' lives but also on society as a whole. 

While traditional benefits such as healthcare and retirement plans are important, there are additional considerations specific to the LGBTQ community that merit attention. Here are some examples.

Family benefits for LGBTQ people

The recognition and support of diverse family structures is essential for LGBTQ employees. Benefits such as parental leave, adoption assistance, and fertility treatments should be available to all employees, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Inclusive language in policies and documentation can also help affirm the validity of LGBTQ families.

With a lot of fertility benefit policies, a medical diagnosis needs to be present before the employee qualifies for fertility treatment. This means same-sex couples (and single people) who need fertility treatment to start a family, are unable to use the benefit. However, there are ways to ensure that fertility benefits are fully inclusive, for instance by working directly with a fertility benefit provider such as ours that caters for everyone. At Apricity, patients can choose to have consultations and many procedures from home, something many patients, especially our transgender and non-binary patients feel more comfortable with. 

Remember that a fertility policy is not only a practical step towards supporting employees' reproductive health but also a testament to your organisation's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Mental health support

LGBTQ individuals face unique mental health challenges, including higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide compared to their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts. Employers can support their LGBTQ employees by offering mental health resources that are sensitive to their experiences, such as anonymous counselling services and employee assistance programs.

Many mindfulness providers, such as Headspace, Calm and Unmind now offer on demand counselling services via face-to-face video, or by more anonymous texting services, which is often preferred by those who are anxious about the thought of opening up to someone they have never met. 

Training and education

Providing training on LGBTQ inclusion for all employees, including managers and HR staff, is crucial for creating a supportive workplace culture. This training should cover topics such as unconscious bias, respectful language, and how to be an effective ally to LGBTQ colleagues. Additionally, offering educational resources on LGBTQ issues can help foster understanding and empathy among employees. Companies such as MindGym offer such services. 

Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)

Establishing Employee Resource Groups dedicated to LGBTQ employees can provide a valuable support network and advocacy platform within the organisation. These groups offer opportunities for networking, mentorship, and community engagement, contributing to a sense of belonging and inclusion.

Conclusion

Supporting LGBTQ employees in the workplace requires more than just lip service. It requires concrete action, including the provision of comprehensive benefits tailored to their needs. 

By prioritising inclusivity and diversity, organisations can create a workplace where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. By implementing the strategies outlined in this blog, employers can take meaningful steps toward building a more equitable and supportive work environment for everyone.

To find out more about the inclusive fertility treatments we offer here at Apricity, please book a call with one of our advisors here.