Charities relaunch global inclusivity training

A North East-developed workplace training programme is taking on the challenge of fostering inclusivity in the face of rising anti-LGBTQIA+ sentiment.

Curious Arts and Northern Pride have relaunched their Proud Allies training programme, updating it for 2025 to address increasing hate crimes and rights erosion in the UK. 

The programme, which combines data, insights and creative learning, aims to create welcoming workplaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals globally.

The training has already reached over 2,000 people across seven countries and counts high-profile clients such as Twitch (Amazon), Sky, Nexus Tyne & Wear Metro, St Oswald’s Hospice, Crafts Council, Engage London and The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Northumbria among its supporters.

Designed for groups of 8–16, with bespoke options for larger teams, Proud Allies increases confidence in supporting LGBTQIA+ communities. It offers practical tools for organisations to champion equity, diversity and inclusion, with a focus on public-facing roles, HR and management teams.

Such has been the demand that five new trainers have been recruited to deliver sessions, which are available in-person or online.

Ste Dunn, director of Northern Pride, said, “This training is instrumental for organisations looking to empower and educate their teams when it comes to what it means to be an LGBTQIA+ ally.

“The training is shaped and presented by a representative team of professionals from the LGBTQIA+ community, including former education professionals and allies from the police force who have varied lived experiences, and has been designed to build confidence in creating safe, inclusive, and welcoming environments for LGBTQIA+ people.

Bookings for 2025 are already filling, with the charities urging businesses to prioritise inclusivity and invest in creating supportive environments. 

North East mayor Kim McGuinness added: “In our North East we won’t accept hate and discrimination and the Proud Allies training is equipping organisations with positive and effective tools so they can create inclusive environments that make the region a safe and welcoming place to live, visit and do business. 

“It is encouraging to see organisations from across the world looking to the North East to understand what it means to commit to equity, diversity and inclusion in a meaningful way.”

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