Issue 24 Respect Magazine

№ 24 | January 2014 Respect Magazine : January 2014

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We get a sneak peek of the ‘Secret Diaries’ of Art With Heart

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Our 2013 Yearbook @CoopRespectLGBT

WIN

VIP tickets to Winter Prid e+ books & DVD’s

We announce the winners of the Respect ‘Loved by You’ Awards What a Year!

Our 2013 Yearbook Inside

is warming Winter up

inclusive lesbian, gay, We reveal our 20141 email us atThe respectLGBT@co-operative.coop bisexual and transgender

Charity of the year

(LGBT) network for

Respect Magazine : January 2014

Inside this issue

Welcome to our Respect Magazine. The monthly magazine for the UK’s most LGBT friendly retailer, The Co-operative. It’s another jam packed issue, produced for you by our team of volunteers.

You can expect lots of Respect 32-33 member features and stories, community news, details of the next Stonewall Workplace Conference, Pride House Manchester and we reveal the winners of our ‘Loved by You’ awards, as voted for by you! Plus lots more!

We meet radio-friendly pop star Matt Fishel

6-8 18-35

Find out about the newest Pride event on the block, Winter Pride

57 Find out why Stephen Fry is pictured here and read a special message to all ‘Friends of Respect’ from the man himself

It’s all about networking. Is there an event near you?

Find out more!

2 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

14 Respect member Sagar writes about it not being ok to be gay in India

36-39 We have a new Respect ‘Charity of the Year’.

Find out more!

42-55

Our 2013 Yearbook.

Were you a part of it?

Respect Magazine : January 2014

An introduction from the Co-Chair of the Respect network Thomas Anderson Welcome to the first issue of our Respect Magazine of the year. And what an issue to start the year off with.

We launched our ‘Loved by You’ awards in November to celebrate the fantastic work of community groups, charities, events and people from the world of entertainment.

The Respect team never imagined the response would be so positive and we are delighted to announce the winners of the awards in this issue.

2013 was a great year for LGBT equality with equal marriage in England & Wales becoming a reality, and with big progress in Scotland too - and about time too.

Northern Ireland does however seem like it is in the dark ages and in someway behind.

It’s a country that has been devastated with religious fights for generations. The declaration rate of Co-op employees in Northern Ireland ticking the sexual orientation box on employee surveys is extremely low and far below the 91% average across the business. Those identifying as lesbian, gay and bisexual is very low. This is mirrored in other surveys too. We know this is not right and we know we have a lot of work to do to give people more confidence in ticking the boxes. So the Respect team makes engaging more with our employees, and the LGBT community in Northern Ireland one of our priorities for 2014. If you work for the Co-op and live in Northern Ireland and would like to help us, please get in touch.

I am extremely proud of The Co-operative’s continued support of LGBT events, charities and initiatives. In 2013 we supported many and in this issue we bring you our ‘2013 Respect Yearbook’ that we think really highlights what makes The

Co-operative stand out, any why we are the UK’s most LGBT friendly retailer. No other retailer comes close to the level of authentic support we have given to the diverse communities we serve all over the UK. We continue to lead the way.

The Respect team is now into year two of our three year strategy and with this comes a new focus for 2014. There will be more focus on our internal facing work that will include the continued development of our mentoring scheme, our Regional Champion Programme and exciting for us, our Respect Role Model platform. We have a great team to support these. Watch this space for more information.

I am also excited to announce that the Albert Kennedy Trust is our ‘Charity of the Year’ for England in 2013. In this issue is an introduction to the super work they do to support homeless LGBT youth. We’ll be announcing our programme of fundraising events very soon.

We will announce our Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland ‘Charities of the Year’ in the next issue of ‘Respect’.

From me and the Respect network Steering Group, thank you for your continued support, and here’s to a very productive 2014. Lot’s to look forward to.

Thomas Anderson Co-Chair of the Respect network and George House Trust Ambassador thomas.anderson@co-operative.coop @thomasinmanc

3 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

We are proud to be the largest and most active LGBT network in the UK. The Co-operative is also the most LGBT friendly retailer in the UK!

Let’s keep connected Twitter - Over 7,400 followers and growing @CoopRespectLGBT Website www.co-operative.coop/ respectlgbt Email respectLGBT@co-operative.coop Respect magazine issuu.com/cooprespectlgbt Feedback & Contributions We welcome all feedback about the magazine so please send this our way. And if you’d like to contribute to the magazine, please get in touch too.

ADVERTISE IN RESPECT If you would like to reach thousands of people every month and advertise in the Respect Magazine, please get in touch with us.

Careers Visit our careers portal at www.co-operative.jobs and you'll see why we are ranked highly in the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index.

Come and join us, say hello and you'll find ‘You're welcome’.

RESPECT NEWS

Respect Magazine : January 2014

New Co-op Board member Lord Myners voted YES for Equal Marriage Lord Myners, the former City minister and one time Chairman of Marks & Spencer, has now joined the board of The Co-operative Group.

We are delighted and proud to see that he voted YES for equal marriage when he voted in the House of Lords in Feb 2013.

Respect is recognised by Co-op Chief Executive Euan Sutherland In His 12 Heroes Of Christmas Employee Messages In December Co-op Chief Exec Euan Sutherland launched ‘Christmas Heroes’ to recognise employees who went the extra mile and showed co-operative spirit in what they do.

The intranet articles were viewed a record breaking 48,481 times.

To wrap up Christmas Heroes, which the eagle eyed amongst you will have noticed went far wider than the original 12 Euan requested, he wanted to say ‘thank you’ to every single colleague who someone went out of their way to nominate.

And we were very proud to see that the Respect Network was on the list. Big thanks to everyone that voted!

The Co-operative sponsors the Canal St discount card and smartphone app Do you like going out, eating, socialising and pampering and let’s face it, who doesn't?

The Canal-St Card becomes essential for your lifestyle whether you live in Manchester or are just visiting.

The card is specifically developed for the LGBT community and The Co-operative is pleased to be sponsoring the card & the new Canal St smartphone app.

Your VIP Card delivers fantastic discounts and offers in over 100 venues in Manchester including LGBT venues, lifestyle, products and services.

With an eclectic mix of deals and offers , many valid for four people, you can really treat yourself, your friends and keep your bank balance happy along the way. What an incentive eh!

A year’s unlimited use for only £20

These offers and deals are growing quickly, making the VIP Card an essential addition to your purse or wallet.

To find out more and to purchase your card, visit www.canal-st.co.uk To download the Canal St app for exclusive competitions, news and other great features, head over to the apple App Store and download it for FREE. It is constantly being updated and developed.

4 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Respect Magazine : January 2014

5 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Respect Magazine : January 2014

Baby, it’s cold outside…

The first ever Winter Pride UK is coming to London’s Tobacco Dock!

8th February 2014 Immerse yourself in the party atmosphere as LGBT London comes together for the first-ever Winter Pride UK on 8th February 2014. Created for the LGBT community, and made possible with sponsorship from Smirnoff, Winter Pride UK is an exciting new venture from the creators of the hugely successful MINT Network, which will bring together the biggest LGBT club brands and international DJs to create a party like no other. The perfect antidote to the rain and bad weather, Winter Pride UK’s ‘inside pride’ at London’s Tobacco Dock has space for over 3,000 people throughout the night.

The vast, vaulted warehouse in east London will hold a Winter paradise which is #yoursforthemaking. Popstarz, One Love, Work, MINT, Exilio, Bear Necessity, East Bloc - east London's coolest late night gay club, and media sponsor, Gaydio – the LGBT radio station, g3 magazine, Out In The City magazine and Gaydar are just some of the iconic names involved so far.

Each vault will hold entertainment, community or retail stalls, meaning you’ll never find yourself without something to do. We have a commitment to the long-term impact that Winter Pride UK will make on the wider community,

which is why £1 from every ticket sale will go to the Terrence Higgins Trust and the proceeds of a raffle to Stonewall, while our community vault spaces are free to charitable organisations. Each year, we’ll report back how you helped the good causes you’ll be supporting by attending Winter Pride UK, so you’re actually doing good, while having the time of your life. We call that guilt-free fun.

Kiera Ridge, Community Fundraising Manager at Terrence Higgins Trust, said: “We’re thrilled that Winder Pride have chosen our charity to benefit from their inaugural event. This kind of community event is vital, not only for raising funds but also creating a great opportunity for the LGBT community to come together and celebrate. We couldn’t be more grateful for their support.”

WIN two VIP tickets to Winter Pride To be in with a chance of winning two VIP tickets to the event, simply email us your name and contact details to respectLGBT@co-operative.coop by 24th January 2014. The winner will be randomly selected and contacted after this date. Good luck everyone!

Jamie Young, Smirnoff Brand Manager, said, “We have supported the LGBT community for many years and in many ways and are very excited to be headline sponsors of the first ever Winter Pride in Europe. We strive to establish and hold our strong relationships within the community and what better way to do this than to support such a fantastic event.”

Respect is delighted to be a ‘Supporting

Buy your tickets at

Partner’ of the first

winterprideuk.com

Winter Pride UK

6 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Respect Magazine : January 2014

Respect volunteering opportunity .....................

Jodie Harsh to host the Winter Pride UK Awards as voting

We are really pleased to announce our new partnership with leading charity the Lesbian & Gay Foundation (LGF).

goes live!

Renowned DJ, producer, and celebrity, Jodie Harsh, announces she will be hosting the Winter Pride UK Awards, as voting goes live!

Voting is now open for the Winter Pride UK Awards!

The Winter Pride UK Awards will recognise fantastic achievement in the LGBT community. Now is your chance to cast your vote for your favourite nominee at winterprideuk.com. You have until the 24th January to vote, before the winners are announced at the Winter Pride Awards ceremony on 8th February.

Adam and Steve, and Ellen and Eve will be regrowing the Garden of Eden for the exclusive awards ceremony, hosted

by Jodie Harsh and supported by the RAF. Life-sized trees will nestle golden apples amongst art installations in this little piece of paradise, while Harsh presents 14 awards reflecting the range of the LGBT community and the straight allies who support it, including LGBT Luminary of the Year, Best LGBT Content in Film and Television nominated by the programmers of BFI

The categories for the awards are: Art Award – sponsored by Smirnoff LGBT Luminary of the Year Best International Media Coverage Best DJ Best LGBT Content in Film and Television - nominated by the programmers of BFI London Lesbian and Gay Film Festival

London Lesbian and Gay Film Festival and Personality of the Year.

Many famous faces appear across the awards, including Ian McKellen, Clare Balding, Gareth Thomas, Nicola Adams, Heather Peace, Angel Haze, Daniel Radcliffe and national treasure, Stephen Fry, who said, "I am thrilled to be nominated as LGBT Luminary of the Year for Winter Pride UK. Artistic and cultural events of this kind are so important for the well being of the LGBT community".

The Awards also include a new Art Award, sponsored by Smirnoff Gold and now open to submissions from both emerging and established artists. The judging panel will consist of Frances Segelman - Sculptress to HM The Queen; Helena Zedig - Deputy Head of Press at the Southbank Centre; Clive Jennings - Director of The National Print Gallery and Director of CHART gallery, Sam Walker - Artist, Curator and Director of CHART gallery and Simon Tarrant - Artist, Curator and Arts Coordinator of Winter Pride UK. A cash prize of £1000 will be awarded to the artist demonstrating the most inventive spirit.

Best British LGBT venue of the Year Best British LGBT event Diversity Organisation of the Year Charity Organisation of the Year Personality of the Year Best British publication of the Year Best International Gay Event Best International Lesbian Event Best Sports Person 7 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Throughout 2014, and beyond, we will be supporting the charity by building all of the thousands of women’s safe sex packs that they distribute all over the North West.

Rachel Crabtree, Respect Fundraising Coordinator said: “In a first, we are very pleased to have taken the time consuming task of producing the packs away from the LGF so their staff and volunteers can focus on other important things. We are looking forward to getting cracking.”

We need your help!

If you would like to support us and give up an hour (or as much time you can spare) each month, or when you can, to build the packs (at our HQ in Manchester) - over a glass of Co-op wine (or soft drink) with some delicious Co-op nibbles, please get in touch by emailing respectLGBT@co-operative.coop We would like to repeat this initiative around the UK. If you know of any charities that would benefit from this kind of support, please let us know.

Respect Magazine : January 2014

We catch up with

Nicola Chubb Director of We're hearing lots about Winter Pride. For those that may not have heard about the event yet, please tell us more Winter Pride is the first of its kind in the UK - a star studded awards ceremony followed by an indoor festival, celebrating the achievements of the awards nominees. The awards ceremony kicks off the night at 8pm, with the festival starting at 9pm and running right through to 4am!

There's an expected footfall of 3,500 people and with so many different things from funfair attractions, performances, a food area, exhibition, a night market and 6 club rooms, there will be plenty to keep all of those people busy. We've got some really great sponsors supporting us this year and would love to say a big thank you to Smirnoff and the RAF.

And we hear there is an awards ceremony element to the event?

Yes, the Winter Pride Awards are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate LGBT achievement and will be hosted by the fabulous Jodie Harsh. The theme of the awards ceremony room is the New Garden of Eden - with Adam and Steve, and Ellen and Eve! There are some really deserving nominees, and the public has been voting for their favourites for over a month now. Normally,

awards ceremonies don't allow the general public to attend, but we've made the Winter Pride UK Awards inclusive by offering award tickets to the general public at just ÂŁ75, which also includes VIP entry into the festival afterwards.

bringing an extremely diverse audience, from student club brand, Popstarz, to lesbian brand One Love, and bringing the urban flavour are Work, Exilio - a latin night, Bear Necessities, and East Bloc - east London's coolest night.

How do you think the event is

The event is supporting a few

different to other LGBT Pride events?

charities as well we hear

Initially, we planned a closed awards ceremony for people in the public eye, sponsors and press, but after giving it some thought, we decided to double the size of our awards room, allowing the general public to attend too. And, of course, we have the huge indoor festival directly after the awards, which is very unique. Another great element to this event are the Art Awards - a new art competition for artists with an inventive spirit.

Artists will have the opportunity to exhibit not only at Tobacco Dock but at CHART gallery in the heart of Chelsea. To date we have received over 160 art entries for the Art Awards from 20 countries.

Is the event inclusive and will there be something that will appeal to most people?

Totally. With so many aspects to Winter Pride UK, there will be something for everyone - from the awards, to games room and performances. Not forgetting, of course, 6 of the most popular club brands hosting rooms, each

Yes. We're proud to say that ÂŁ1 from every ticket sale will be going to Terrance Higgins Trust, and we'll be holding a raffle for Stonewall. In addition to these two main charities, we're giving all the community night market traders their stalls for free, so that they're able to donate a percent of their profits to a chosen charity or promote their cause to the Winter Pride audience.

We've spotted tweets of support about the event from Sir Ian McKellen and Stephen Fry. How important do you think social media is to the success of events?

We believe social media is so important, as it creates a real buzz, and hopefully people can get a feel of the calibre of the event when we have celebrities tweeting about Winter Pride UK.

Good luck with the event, we can't wait to attend!

Thanks! See you there.Â

8 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

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Respect Magazine : January 2014

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9 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Respect Magazine : January 2014

Find out more about ‘Pride

House Manchester’ on page 56

We’ll be supporting LGBT History Month in February.

What will you be doing?

We have raised awareness of the month for the last few years with articles in this very magazine and intranet and Facebook articles and updates too. We plan to expand on what we have done in previous years in 2014 and do something a bit different.

We’ll be announcing our plans for supporting and raising awareness of LGBT History Month very soon.

As the theme to the month is music, we thought we’d include photo’s of some successful LGBT musical acts.

Lesbian Gay Bisexual Trans History Month takes place every year in February. It celebrates the lives and achievements of the LGBT community.

The organisers are committed to celebrating its diversity and that of society as a whole. They encourage everyone to see diversity and cultural pluralism as the positive forces that they are and endeavour to reflect this in all they do.

Respect member Kineta bags a free ticket to London from Virgin Trains following YouTube Christmas wish song Virgin Trains has shown how to do social and keep customers happy over the Christmas season, having provided Respect Magazine contributor and Social Media Analyst at The Co-operative Kineta Kelsall with a free ticket home after she asked if she could get a cheaper ticket.

Kineta missed the window to buy a cheap ticket home, so asked the company if she could still get the discount. After some cajoling, she instead turned to carolling, and sent Virgin Trains a YouTube video.

Following the video, which led to others on social begging Virgin to help her out, Virgin Trains unveiled its own YouTube video, offering the blogger a free ticket.

LGBT History Month is an opportunity for all of us to learn more about the histories of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Britain and Northern Ireland.

Until recently, most LGBT people preferred to avoid attention. Many still do.

Even today, the penalties for those who refuse to conceal themselves, or fail to do so, can be severe. They can range from ostracism and victimisation to assault and even murder.

George Michael

Jessie J

Lucy Spraggan

Will Young

MIKA

Ke$ha

Speaking to website The Drum about the experience, Kineta said: “I was determined to get to London on Friday, and joked with my mates that I would 'find a way', I don't think they were expecting this though! I missed the 'cheap ticket' offers, and decided to take to Twitter to see what they could do. Maybe it was my epic singing that won them over, who knows! This is a great example of online customer care, the powers of social media eh!”

In the past, the silencing of LGBT people was often reinforced by legislation. The most recent example was Section 28, passed in 1988 and repealed in 2003, which was intended to restrict debate on homosexuality, particularly in schools.

There was an official launch for the month by the organisers in late November 2013. The Co-operative was pleased to have an advert in the official programmer for the event.

The theme of the month in 2014 is dedicated to music.

You can find out more about the month and see what events are taking place near you at lgbthistorymonth.org.uk 10 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Kineta’s YouTube video .......check it out

Respect Magazine : January 2014

We’ve raised over

£5million for Carers Trust

Respect member Peter is recognised for his fantastic fundraising Peter McCarthy, Respect Member and Regional Development Manager for The Co-operative Pharmacy (Brighton & Hove area), was recently invited to meet Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal in recognition of his fundraising feats in support of The Co-operative’s 2013 Charity of the Year, Carers Trust.

Nominated by colleagues, Peter McCarthy, was one of five Co-operative employees from across the UK chosen to meet The Princess Royal - President of Carers Trust - on the night it was revealed that The Co-operative’s staff, members and customers had raised more than £5 million for the charity during 2013.

Peter took part in a range of fundraising activities including arranging a gruelling four-peak challenge that raised over £15,000 for the charity.

The special fundraising evening, held in Manchester, was hosted by actor,

comedian and presenter Rob Brydon and highlighted how the money raised this year by The Co-operative’s employees will provide desperately needed breaks, information, advice, support and services for thousands of unpaid young adult carers.

Peter McCarthy, said: “I was really surprised and excited to receive this recognition and to meet The Princess Royal was amazing - Carers Trust is a charity that has become really close to our hearts and raising money and awareness for this cause has been a real team effort.

“Young people in our communities are taking on incredible levels of practical and emotional caring responsibilities for loved ones, often at the expense of their own education and aspirations, and they desperately need support. It is incredible what people can achieve when they work together and I was determined to play my part to help to make a difference to the lives of thousands of young people.”

11 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Thea Stein, Chief Executive of Carers Trust, said: “I continue to be overwhelmed by our partnership with The Co-operative. At the start of the year we dared to dream of a transformative year for Carers Trust and for the young people in our communities who desperately need our support and services.

There are an estimated 500,000 unpaid young adult carers (14-25 year-olds) in the UK who take on practical and emotional caring responsibilities for a family member or friend who are ill, frail, disabled or have mental health or addiction problems and cannot cope without their support. For more information visit www.co-operative.coop/ charityoftheyear.

Carers Trust formed in 2012 when The Princess Royal Trust for Carers and Crossroads Care came together.

For more information about the support and services available visit www.carers.org

Respect Magazine : January 2014

Emmerdale cuts transgender joke from episode after actress complains of ridicule As reported in Metro, Emmerdale producers have found themselves in hot water after a transgender joke used on an upcoming edition of the soap left one of its actresses fuming.

Samantha Valentine – who starred as a transgender barmaid in the episode – complained to ITV over the sequence, which sees character Laurel, played by Charlotte Bellamy, getting her phone number in the gay bar where she was seen working as a dare.

However her boyfriend Marlon Dingle (Mark Charnock), subsequently quips: ‘That’s not fair, that’s a he not a she.’

Valentine has since received an apology from Emmerdale creative director John Whiston after accusing the soap of being ‘transphobic’ and saying she would never have taken the part if she had known the content might offend the transgenger community.

Whiston called the inclusion of the sequence – which has since been cut from the episode – a ‘huge disappointment’, and described the line as ‘old-fashioned prejudice’.

‘Apparently it was added at a very late stage before filming when the show was in danger of under-running,’ he added.

‘It would no doubt have been picked up by myself, the producer or Compliance when we viewed and approved the programme prior to transmission.

‘But this would have been in early January, so it is really good you have brought it to our attention now and we’ve been able to take action at this earlier stage.’

Emmerdale airs throughout the week on ITV. See TV a guide for times.

Laurel & Marlon in Emmerdale

Hooray!

Same sex couples will be able to get married in England & Wales from March 2014 The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act completed its passage through the Houses of Parliament and received Royal Assent on Wednesday 17 July 2013.

Stonewall has been pushing the government to implement the Act quickly to allow same-sex couples to be able to marry as soon as possible. Ministers have listened to their concerns and have agreed to implement the Act far earlier than their original plan of Summer 2014.

On 10 December the Government announced that: From 29 March 2014 same sex couples will be able to marry in England and Wales From June 2014 same sex couples will be able to be married in British Embassies, Consulates and High Commissions, as well as on British military bases By the end of 2014 couples in Civil Partnerships will be able to have them ‘converted’ to marriages

Find out more about the work Stonewall does and how you can The fight continues in Scotland with support them at lots of people doing a stellar job www.stonewall.org.uk campaigning for equal marriage.

12 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Registered Charity No. 1070904

Respect Magazine : January 2014

13 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Reg. Charity No. 1070904

Respect Magazine : January 2014

Gay sex is illegal in India India has been in the news recently for the ban on gay sex. It is important to understand that Law 377 does not only recriminalise gay sex. Law 377 states that all kind of sexual activity is criminal apart from the procreative sex. Hence, law 377 applies to heterosexual couples in India as well. The argument in Indian media is whether the state really needs to enter the bedrooms of its citizens. The Delhi High court verdict in 2009 helped decriminalise homosexuality by stating that consensual sex between adults cannot be a crime.

As a Hindu and an Indian I come from the land of tolerance.

Alternate sexuality has existed since ages. This can be seen from carvings on various Hindu temples at Khajuraho etc. and scriptures. The law 377 was a colonial law imposed on Indians by Lord Macaulay in the 1860s. This one is similar to the law that existed in Britain and which helped prosecute big names like Oscar Wilde.

The Supreme Court in its new judgement said that only a minuscule percent of the population had been prosecuted (200 in 150 years) and hence it was not the courts prerogative to deal with this law. Thus it decided to take back the High Court judgement and now we are criminals again.

This leads to the return of fear. I am here in the UK right now but I know how it feels. Growing up as a closeted gay man in India has been very traumatic. It was difficult to discuss my feelings because nobody would understand. I blamed myself for being different and having feelings for the same sex. I have many friends in India who still suffer in silence and I am aware of many gay people who decided to marry girls just because of family and societal pressures. State criminalising leads to lack of awareness, lack of support, lack of help to NGOs who are working for spreading messages about HIV. It puts power in the hands of those ignorant police officers who would love to exploit the innocent gay men and ask for

bribes. I wonder that in 2014 India has gone back to 1860s.

Last I heard was that fortunately the current Government of India has come out openly criticising the Supreme Court’s verdict. They have asked for a review of the judgement in the Supreme Court, preferably this time with a five-judge bench court, more than the earlier two-judge bench. This will take months and probably years to come.

The current government is aware that this is the only way ahead in the present circumstances as if they were to bring the debate about 377 in the parliament, the majority of political parties are against.

“It was difficult to discuss my feelings because nobody would understand.”

The Delhi Court judgement in 2009 had helped me and many of my friends to get the right to live life openly and freely. Now it pushes us back. But we will never go back in the closet and we will fight for our basic human right – the right to love.

Article by Sagar Parad, Respect Member and Team Manager at a Co-operative Food store in London

14 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Respect RespectMagazine Magazine::January January2014 2014

National AIDS Trust (NAT) asks BBC to reverse ban on its presenters wearing red ribbons National AIDS Trust (NAT) has written to Lord Tony Hall, Director General of the BBC, asking him to reverse the ban on BBC presenters wearing red ribbons on World AIDS Day. The corporation currently bans all its presenters and staff wearing the global HIV and AIDS awareness symbol and recently disciplined Graham Norton after wearing a ribbon on his World AIDS Day show.

For years NAT has challenged the ban with the BBC but the corporation has refused to change the rules. The letter comes as over 2,700 people have taken part in the HIV charity's grassroots campaign to write to the BBC opposing the ban. A number of high profile individuals and organisations, including Former Culture Secretary Ben Bradshaw, Labour MP Pamela Nash and Lord Deben have also condemned the rules.

Graham Norton

Yusef Azad, Director of Policy and Campaigns, NAT said: 'We hope that the BBC's New Year's resolution for 2014 will be to do the right thing and reverse this illogical and unnecessary ban.'

the BBC for

has been disciplined by wearing a red ribbon on

www.nat.org.uk

World AIDS Day

The letter in full: BBC ban on the wearing of red ribbons to mark World AIDS Day

ribbon. It is the original 'awareness ribbon' and is powerful precisely because it is universal.

As I am sure you are aware over recent weeks there has been significant support for a reversal of the ban from across the political spectrum, the media and charity sectors.

NAT's grassroots campaign to write to the BBC about the issue has also already had participation from over 2,700 people.

The BBC is a hugely respected institution which has the power to influence opinion and behaviour of the British public. As a public body, the BBC must have due regard, for example, to the need to eliminate discrimination and advance equality of opportunity, under the Public Sector Equality Duty. The wearing of the red ribbon contributes to these aims. It also helps raise badly needed HIV awareness and shows support for all the many BBC viewers and listeners who are themselves HIV positive.

Previous BBC correspondence has stated that the wearing of symbols for individual charities would have impartiality implications for the BBC, although the poppy is exempt from these rules.

I hope you and the BBC have had a chance to reflect on the current policy and will reverse this unfair ban. We would request a meeting with you to discuss this matter in more detail.

The red ribbon is a global symbol of HIV awareness. It is a simple and accessible way for anyone to remember those who have been affected by HIV and AIDS and make a statement against HIV stigma. It is not synonymous with any one particular charity and is used by numerous organisations all over the world. No one owns the red

Yours sincerely Yusef Azad Director of Policy and Campaigns NAT (National AIDS Trust)

I am writing to ask the BBC to reverse the current ban on presenters wearing the red ribbon on World AIDS Day.

CC Lord Patten, Chair of the BBC Trust

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Respect Magazine : January 2014

We’ve been shortlisted for two prestigious ‘Out In The City & g3 Magazine Readers’ Awards’ What a way to start our 2014! We are proud to announce that we’ve been shortlisted for two ‘Out In The City & g3’ magazine ‘Readers’ Awards’ - dubbed the Gay Oscar’s.

The categories are ‘Network of the Year’, the award we won last year, and ‘Marketing Campaign of the Year’. This is for our massive ‘Making history with Pride’ campaign last summer that saw us smiling with Pride all over the

UK and showcasing our unique and innovative branding and marketing initiatives.

These included billboards, magazine adverts, store branding, huge vibrant parade entries, banners, t-shirts, event sponsorship, coupons, an ice cream van and so much more.

Our presence at Pride events was huge. Bigger than ever.

We are very proud to have been recognised in these two categories. Big thanks to everyone that has supported us and to all the Co-op business areas for making it all possible.

Our ‘Here for you this Pride’ coupons

Please vote for us!

Voting is now open and we would really appreciate your support.

Please spread the word and vote for us!

Vote at www.outg3awards.co.uk/g3-voting-form-2014.html

Some of of our engaging branding we used at Pride events all over the UK

Our Pride ice cream van

Our huge billboard on Canal St over Manchester Pride 2013 16 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Making history with Pride

Respect Magazine : January 2014

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Respect Magazine : January 2014

‘Tom Daley’ leaps to victory and the ‘Village Bakers’ bake up a storm in our ’Loved by You’ Awards

Throughout the four week voting period, the Top3 in each of the categories changed constantly. We are now delighted to announce the winners of our inaugural ‘Loved by You’ awards.

The awards generated lots of interest and an amazing 8,753 nominations were received and the awards reached over 12.5 million people on Twitter

with lots of support from community groups, charities and celebrities. The Top3 in each category of the awards are those that received the most nominations.

Thomas Anderson, Co-Chair of the Respect network said: “Since communicating our ‘Respect ‘Loved by You’ Awards’ we have been amazed by the positive response. The awards were an opportunity for people from all over the UK to vote for their favourites in 27 diverse categories. Categories ranged from ‘LGBT Charity of the Year’ to ‘Movie of the Year’. We worked hard to ensure all areas of life and interests were covered in the categories, and to ensure they had a real community feel.”

“We believe the awards offer a rare opportunity for the smallest community groups and events to be celebrated alongside the biggest. We don’t think there are enough opportunities to celebrate the inspiring work and positive impact of more isolated and community based groups, events and initiatives. We are very happy that the final results include many smaller and lesser known groups and people and the diversity of the LGBT community throughout the UK shines through. Big thanks to everyone that took the time to nominate.”

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Respect Magazine : January 2014

Ben Summerskill, Chief Executive of Stonewall with the Stonewall team and their winners certificate

CHARITY OF THE YEAR 1 - STONEWALL, STONEWALL SCOTLAND & STONEWALL CYMRU 2 - ALBERT KENNEDY TRUST 3 - LESBIAN & GAY FOUNDATION

Leading lesbian, gay and bisexual charity Stonewall have been named ‘Charity of the Year’ and Laura Doughty, Deputy Chief Executive, Stonewall said: “We’re delighted to have won this award and we’re particularly pleased to be recognised by the Respect network following all of their hard work to support the campaign for equal marriage. On behalf of everyone at Stonewall – Thank You.”

LGBT SOCIAL/NETWORKING GROUP OF THE YEAR 1 - VILLAGE BAKERS 2 - ICE BREAKERS 3 - THE QUEST FOR GAY MEN

On their win Kevin Sargent, Chair of Village Bakers said: “The award highlights the work we have done to provide a safe and inclusive social group, to allow like minded people to form lifelong friendships, whilst eating copious amounts of cakes and buns. Winning this award really is the cherry on top of our cake.”

LGBT COMMUNITY GROUP OF THE YEAR 1 - UK Lesbian and Gay Immigration Group (UKLGIG) 2 - Acting Out Birmingham 3 - LGBT Youth North West

Your winners each received a lovely shiny certificate.

Tim Barnden, Chair of UKLGIG said: “UKLGIG are thrilled to receive this award.

LGBTI asylum seekers and refugees are all too often a hidden and marginalised part of the wider LGBTI community. This recognition of UKLGIG’s work is a recognition of the importance of those who we work with: of their need for protection but also their hopes for a vibrant future here in the UK. Many many thanks to The Co-operative Respect Network for this award.”

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More photo’s in the next issue.

Respect Magazine : January 2014

REGIONAL LGBT MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR 1 - OUT NORTH WEST 2 - GSCENE 3 - MIDLANDS ZONE Grahame Robertson, Editor of outnorthwest said: “I’m absolutely thrilled that we’ve won this award, and even more so because it was voted for by the community. I’ve always believed that outnorthwest is a unique magazine, offering information and advice in a way that no other LGB title does. This award belongs to everyone who has contributed to outnorthwest over the last 14 years – many of whom are volunteers and all of whom are a part of the community we exist to serve.

A huge thank-you to everyone who voted for outnorthwest and to everyone who continues to pick the magazine up.”

NATIONAL LGBT MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR 1 - DIVA 2 - ATTITUDE 3 - THE GAY UK DIVA Editor Jane Czyzselska said: "We're absolutely thrilled and delighted to have won this coveted award. The fact that we were voted for by members of the public makes the prize even sweeter! Thank you!"

DIVA Editor Jane Czyzselska

Kim Watson, Media Director echoed the sentiment.

She said: "We'd like to thank everyone who voted for DIVA and are very proud to have been recognised, through these important awards, by so many as the best magazine."

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Respect Magazine : January 2014

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Respect Magazine : January 2014

LGBT SPORTS GROUP OF THE YEAR 1 - Newcastle Ravens RFC 2 - Manchester Canalsiders 3 - Manchester Sharks

LGBT CULTURAL EVENT OF THE YEAR 1 - POLARI 2 - Homotopia 3 - Manchester Pride Fringe

UK PRIDE OF THE YEAR

Paul Burston of Polari said: “As programmer and host of Polari, I'm thrilled to receive this award. These are challenging times for LGBT writers. To be recognised for the contribution Polari makes to LGBT literary culture is a huge honour.”

1 - Manchester Pride 2 - Bristol Pride 3 - Brighton Pride Mark Fletcher, Director of Manchester Pride said: “We're thrilled to have won this award! Our team works hard all year round to ensure the delivery of a first class Pride event and its great to know that our audience is so pleased with the activity that we programme.

Planning is now underway for Manchester Pride 2014 and we'll be working closely with the community to make sure your 'UK Pride of the Year' stays on top!"

INTERNATIONAL PRIDE OF THE YEAR 1 - Amsterdam Pride 2 - Madrid Pride 3 - Stockholm Pride

INCLUSIVE EVENT OF THE YEAR 1 - The Rainbow Intersection - A dialogue about Race, Sexuality & Culture in Modern Britain 2 - Queer Contact 3 - Albert Kennedy Trust ‘Big Purple Weekender’ Ade Adeniji & Bisi Alimi of The Rainbow Intersection said: “We are deeply honoured that the event we held as part of Black History Month, where we looked at the intersection between Race, Sexuality and Culture has been named "Inclusive Event of the Year". It has only been two months since this event - our very first - and to be selected as winner of this prestigious award is exciting and humbling. We'd like to give a massive thank you to the wonderful people and organisations who made our event happen and to everyone who voted for us. We are dedicated to continuing the ongoing dialogue that we have started around intersection issues, and look forward to hosting many more inclusive events in 2014 and beyond.”

Paul Burston

HEALTH & WELLBEING CHARITY OF THE YEAR 1 - George House Trust 2 - Lesbian & Gay Foundation (LGF) 3 - Yorkshire MESMAC Rosie Robinson, Chief Executive of George House Trust said: "We’re so delighted to have won this award and the fact that it was voted for by the public really means so much to us. George House Trust has been working tirelessly since 1985 to support people living with or affected by HIV in the North West, so that they live happy and healthy lives free from stigma and discrimination. We've always prided ourselves on being a small charity that achieves really big things and to receive this level of recognition from the LGBT community is just an absolute honour for us. We send a heartfelt thank you to everyone who voted for George House Trust and also to the Respect network for giving us this opportunity to showcase our work."

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Respect Magazine : January 2014

Tom Daley was the runaway winner of this category. Here is what some of our voters had to say...

Thought it was great when Tom Daley came out as being in a relationship with a bloke. Nice to see a role model letting younger folk know it's ok.

INSPIRING CELEBRITY OF THE YEAR 1 - Tom Daley 2 - Ben Cohen 3 - Stephen Fry This was a very interesting category where the Top3 changed often and until late into the nominating Tom Daley did not even feature in the Top20. That was until his now famous and brave YouTube video where he revealed to the world that he was in a relationship with a man.

That was when the voting changed and Will Young and Clare Balding lost their placings and Tom leaped up the ranking to win by some margin too.

Well done Tom! Ben Cohen’s popularity on hit TV show ‘Strictly Come Dancing and his continued support for equality made him a very popular choice too.

Tom Daley, coming out in any shape or form is difficult, Tom's decision to come out the way he did, was not only brave, but also stuck it to all the newspapers hoping for a 'scoop'.

TOM DALEY

Tom Daley "coming out" about his sexuality. He shouldn't have felt the need to do it but the fact that he did do it is an inspiration to everyone and helps to "normalise" differences in sexual orientation.

Tom Daley and his video 'coming out'. I think this was incredibly inspiring and a real step forward for a sports personality.

It is very recent and obvious, but I think that Tom Daley coming out will do a lot for young men, for sportsmen, for young sportsmen, and for young gay and bi men who don't feel like they have a role model in lots of film stars / musicians / pop stars. Sport is something that most youth are part of at some point, so I feel his coming out will help many people.

Tom Daley discussing his sexuality openly. Good role model for young people.

Tom Daley making a splash!

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1 - Matt Fishel - Not Thinking Straight 2 - Sam Dickinson- The Stories That Occurred 3 - Horse - Home

SONG OF THE YEAR 1 - Matt Fishel - Radio-Friendly Pop Song 2 - Sam Dickinson - Lift Your Head 3 - Macklemore - Same Love

Matt Fishel

On finding out he had been crowned the winner of both ‘Song and Album of the Year’ Matt said: “I'm absolutely thrilled to have won Album of the Year for my debut album 'Not Thinking Straight' and Song of the Year for 'RadioFriendly Pop Song' - what an amazing way to end 2013! As an independent artist, winning these awards means so much to me, especially as they were voted for by the public. So a massive heartfelt thank you to everyone who voted and for supporting me and my music.”

MOVIE OF THE YEAR 1 - Gravity 2 - Behind the Candelabra 3 - Blue is the Warmest Colour

BOOK OF THE YEAR 1 - The Palace of Curiosities - Rosie Garland Gravity

2 - Out In The Army - James Wharton 3 - Maggie and Me - Damian Barr ‘Book of the Year’ winner ‘The Palace of Curiosities’ by Rosie Garland was a very popular choice receiving over 60 percent of the votes in this category.

Rosie said: “After years of being told by publishers that no-one would want to read my book, this wonderful award reminds me why I kept going.”

TV SHOW OF THE YEAR 1 - Hollyoaks 2 - Dr Who 3 - Orange is the New Black

THEATRE PRODUCTION OF THE YEAR 1 - The Secret Diaries of a Teenage Queer 2 - Wicked 3 - The Pride Rosie Garland

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All you need to do is email us your contact details to respectLGBT@co-operative.coop by 28th February 2014. The winner will be drawn at random and contacted after this date. Good luck!

ALBUM OF THE YEAR

WIN! A COPY OF ‘THE PALACE OF CURIOSITIES’ BY ROSIE GARLAND AND A COPY OF ‘BEHIND THE CANDELABRA’ DVD.

Respect Magazine : January 2014

Respect Magazine : January 2014

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Respect Magazine : January 2014

Award winning company

the world not only as a teenager in the 80’s, but as an adult in present day.

Art with Heart are proud to

“The 80’s was such a rich time in history with so much change in society. It was so colourful in music, and dark in politics, just like today.” Said Evans.

be kicking off LGBT History Month 2014 with a laugh out loud, heart grabbing tale of growing up.

Acclaimed writer Sarah Evans says, "It can take a long time to feel comfortable in your own skin and fearing rejection from the people you love creates enormous pressure.

Homophobia is also an ongoing fear, and that needs to change.”

The play sees Hayley laugh, dance and fight with her best friend Debbie and love, cry and question her Dad. Secret Diaries has seen sell-out crowds in Manchester and an award for ‘Theatre Production of the Year 2013’ voted by the public in The Co-operative Respect ‘Loved by You’ awards.

As well as a significant span of history, it reflects a change in people; from teenagers slamming doors and falling in love, to deciding as an adult if you still need your parents’ approval. If you want to relive your youth and be blasted back to the past and bounced back into the present, go and see this highly acclaimed play, in Halifax, on for one night only.

SECRET DIARIES is about parenting, family and friendships. It follows Hayley as she tries to find her way in

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Respect Magazine : January 2014 Hi Sarah! Congratulations on being crowned “Theatre Production of the Year” in the Respect Loved by You Awards for the play “Secret Diaries”. How does it feel?

It’s incredible! When I told the company there were lots of cheers and hugs. We won the award for a development performance of the piece, so to win something that early on is just jaw-dropping. We’re so proud of the final version which will be debuted, thanks to Arts Council England and The Co-operative at Square Chapel Theatre, Halifax on 7th February.

“A few years ago a woman gave me her old diaries and asked if I’d like to use them. I read all ten years, and they set off sparks in my mind.”

It must be fantastic to get support from the Lord Mayor, tell us how that happened!

It is! The Lord Mayor’s Charity ‘We Love MCR’ has given us some support to work with The Co-operative Academy of Manchester to create a workshop to accompany the shorter version of the play for young people aged 14+. We’re excited to perform the full version to the public but we’re equally excited to work with young people, schools and youth centres to ensure that the story reaches and challenges them too.

Can you tell us a bit about writing ‘Secret Diaries’?

A few years ago a woman gave me her old diaries and asked if I’d like to use them. I read all ten years, and they set off sparks in my mind. A lot of her experience resonated with me, not only as part of the LGBT community but having worked with young people. I knew I needed to write a story about the challenges we face and how we win some, and lose others but ultimately, how we continue to fight.

audiences have been aged 14-70! It explores parenting, family and friendships and how the past has shaped the present. It looks at how we all try to find a sense of belonging in the world. We want the audience to leave feeling like they want to make a positive change in their own world.

How effective do you think the play will be for young people?

As Sally Carr, MBE says “It will make a change for young people who see it”. We’ve worked a lot with LGBT Youth North West, Elly Barnes (Pink List #1 2011) and also with internationally recognised Chris Cooper who writes and directs young people’s theatre. We’ve created a strong workshop and education pack to explore the play further with us. The evening performance will have a Question and Answer session for those who want to stay too.

When is the first performance and how are you feeling about it?

Friday 7th Feb and we’re feeling great! There’s only one performance of each version this time. Schools are coming in the afternoon and then our public performance is at 8pm. Our development performances at Manchester Pride and Queer Contact all sold out, so we’re hoping now the final piece is here, we’ll keep doing it; we want to share our story with as many people as humanly possible!

Will you be touring the country with the play?

Yes, both versions. So many people have told us they wished that they’d seen the play when they were younger, so we hope to give as many schools the chance to see it, and as many adults too! We’ll be starting a tour in the North but we’ve already been talking to venues right across the country so if you’d like to see ‘Secret Diaries’ at a Theatre near you, get in touch and we’ll see what we can do!

'Secret Diaries' at Square Chapel, Halifax @ 8pm, 7th Feb 2014.

Tickets £12/£10 from

What do you want to the audience to leave with?

squarechapel.co.uk

The play will never tell you what to think or what to say; it will ask you to think and question yourself. It’s a story for all; our

More info at www.artwithheart.org.uk Follow: @artwith_heart

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Respect Magazine : January 2014

BRAND OF THE YEAR

INCLUSIVE VENUE OF THE YEAR

1 - Barefoot Wine 2 - Apple 3 - Gay Star News

1 - Contact Theatre, Manchester 2 - Taurus, Manchester 3 - Nightingale, Birmingham

LGBT BAR OF THE YEAR 1 - Taurus, Manchester

On their win, Matt Fenton, Artistic Director at Contact said: “Being named as ‘Inclusive Venue of the Year’ in the Co-operative Respect Loved

By You Awards, 2013, means a huge amount to us, especially because it is decided by public vote. Our shows, participatory programmes and events are for anyone hungry for something exciting and unusual, and we strive to present diverse and accessible work for and with diverse artists and audiences. For the public to vote for us as Inclusive Venue of the Year shows that our approach has had a real impact. We were also delighted to see one such artist - Sarah Evans recognised with the Theatre Event of the Year award for Secret Diaries of a Teenage Queer, which featured in our spring 2013 programme.

2 - Molly House, Manchester 3 - G-A-Y, London A bar that supports many LGBT groups and charities and is at the heart of the world famous Canal St in Manchester, ‘Taurus’ is named the winner of ‘LGBT Bar of the Year’.

Owner Iain Scott said: “We are clearly delighted to win this latest award, particularly given the very large number of total votes cast. We shall be very proud to display our award in the venue. Thanks to everyone who supported us.”

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

In addition to winning an award, it was fantastic to see Queer Contact, our annual festival of work celebrating LGBT History Month, named as runner-up in the Inclusive Event of the Year category. We’ll be celebrating this and thanking everyone during the opening weekend of Queer Contact 2014 next month. It's also a real honour to be recognised in the same Awards as some of the many groups and individuals working hard to enrich and improve communities across the UK, as we see first-hand how much difference they make to the lives of young people in our area.

1 - Velvet, Manchester 2 - Taurus, Manchester 3 - Balans, London

HOLIDAY DESTINATION OF THE YEAR 1 - Gran Canaria 2 - Sitges 3 - New York

Thanks so much to everyone who voted and huge congratulations to all the other winners and nominees.”

Gran Canaria

Sitges

New York

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Respect Magazine : January 2014

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Respect Magazine : January 2014

TWEETER OF THE YEAR 1 - STEPHEN FRY @STEPEHENFRY 2 - Kieron Richardson @MrkieronR 3 - Matthew Todd @MrMatthewTodd

win d his award e r a h s n e h p e St n followers io l il m .5 6 is with h

Stephen Fry

LGBT WEBSITE OF THE YEAR 1 - www.rucomingout.com 2 - www.gaystarnews.com 3 - www.pinknews.co.uk

Gold, silver and bronze wins for The LGF

outnorthwest published by The LGF won first place for Regional LGBT Magazine of the Year, the charity won second place for Health & Wellbeing Charity of the Year and third place for LGBT Charity of the Year – marking gold, silver and bronze wins!

Chief Executive of The LGF, Paul Martin OBE, said: “I’m absolutely delighted that The LGF have won gold, silver and bronze in the Co-operative’s Respect ‘Loved by You’ Awards. We are proud of the support from the LGB&T community and feel that these awards are a true testament to what teamwork and determination can achieve. None of this would have been possible without the hard work of all our and staff. volunteers

Coming out as lesbian, gay or bisexual is often a difficult and stressful time in someone’s life and the winner of ‘Website of the Year’ is a website that offers much support to people going through this, ‘RUComingOut.com’. Wayne Dhesi, Founder of R U Coming Out said: “The fact that the Respect Awards are voted for by the public goes to show how many people have taken RUComingOut.com to their hearts. Without the 200+ people who have very kindly written and shared their coming out stories so far, as well as the many individuals and organisations that have endorsed it, I simply would not have been able to grow the website to the point at which it's at now. I'd like to thank everyone who took the time to nominate and promise to continue working hard to provide a much needed resource for those, who for whatever reason, have not yet been able to take that step and come out.”

LGBT RADIO SHOW OF THE YEAR 1 - Kieron Richardson Show (Gaydio) 2 - Out in Brighton 3 -Shout Out - Bristol

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“Winning these medals of honour reminds us of the upcoming Winter Olympics in Sochi and the current laws in Russia banning homosexual ‘propaganda,’ and we would like to dedicate these awards to our brothers and sisters in Russia who are currently facing intolerable discrimination. You are not alone.

“I'd also like to thank everyone who voted for us and for their continued support as we look towards 2014 with high hopes for a future where there is a global acceptance of all people, no matter what their sexual orientation.”

UPLIFTING Respect Magazine : January 2014

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The Beat of Gay UK FM | DAB | ONLINE

Respect Magazine : January 2014

Matt Fishel Is Not Thinking Straight

about and perhaps find a different perspective from other mainstream pop/rock songs that are out there at the moment. And I wanted to create a really strong visual aesthetic to go with the music, so I worked very closely with (San Diego comic artist) Joe Phillips to create the album’s artwork – each song is represented by a different illustration that tells the story of the lyrics. I’m really proud of the whole package.

And you’ve had a great reaction to your song ‘RadioMassive congratulations on being named ‘Album and Song of the Year’ in our Loved By You awards. How does it feel to be the people’s winner?

Thanks so much! I feel very honoured to have been nominated and winning both awards has been amazing, especially as they were voted for by the public. Knowing that people are enjoying my music is the ultimate reward as that’s why I started making music in the first place. It‘s been the perfect end to 2013!

And you came out top ahead of major recording artists such as Lady GaGa, Katy Perry and Avicci too!

Wow, yeah, it’s very humbling. Being an independent artist and running your own record label can have its

challenges but it makes it all worthwhile knowing that my music can find its place and be appreciated alongside these major artists, so I’m really thrilled.

We’d love to know more about your album ‘Not Thinking Straight’. How would you describe the album?

It’s an eclectic mix! Some songs are loud, angry and full of energy; some are fun, celebratory or tongue-incheek and others are quieter, more reflective and nostalgic. But they all have big choruses, big guitars and lots of vocal harmonies and the general vibe is uplifting and fun. There are songs on the album about boyfriends and relationships, coming out and the places I’ve lived, religion, hypocrisy, sexuality and education. Hopefully people relate to the lyrics and experiences I sing

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Friendly Pop Song’ too. It sounds like a very uplifting song.

Yeah, the reaction has been amazing.

'Radio-Friendly Pop Song' is my fun, tongue-in-cheek response to certain executives in major music labels who have repeatedly advised me to remove any references to other guys from my lyrics and to sing about girls so as not to 'alienate my audience'.

I’ve always been uncomfortable with the notion of deliberately hiding my sexuality, so this song is my response to that. But I also wanted to write an anthem of pride in celebration of the LGBTQ community, which says “I’m gay, I’m out and I’m proud, I’m not prepared to hide from that and I’m gonna be true to who I am.” I had a lot of fun recording this one, especially the big acapella breakdown section towards the end of the song!

Respect Magazine : January 2014 When did you decide to get into the music industry and is it everything you expected?

I’ve been writing songs and performing in bands ever since I was a kid, so the desire to record and release my own music has always been with me. When I was a teenager I started sending my demos out to all the big labels and, as mentioned earlier, the majority of the feedback I got was: “your songs are great, we love the vibe – you just need to remove all references to other guys”.

Without wanting to compromise or change who I am as an artist, I decided to set up my own record label so I could do things my own way and make the art that was true to me. And doing it myself has enabled me to make my own choices and work with a lot of talented directors, producers and visual artists whose work I really love. The music business can be a tough industry to navigate, the journey’s different for everyone and there are always barriers and obstacles to get over, but I’ve managed to find my own route and retain a sense of autonomy, which is extremely rewarding.

How important is social media to you?

Social media has been a game changer for me as it’s given me numerous ways to communicate directly with my fans, to share my work with people from all over the world and to get my music, videos and message out to a much larger audience. I now have fans in North and South America, Europe, Asia and Australia – places I haven’t yet been able to tour, due to budget constraints. I love being able to receive messages and respond directly back to people through Twitter

and Facebook etc - it’s good fun and you can get a really good sense of what people are enjoying. I also enjoy using social media to develop new collaborations and connect with other artists from around the world.

the coming weeks, which I’m very excited about and I’m currently in talks about several other music projects for later in the year, so watch this space!

What are your thoughts on TV talent shows such as The Voice and X Factor, would you ever audition for them?

Reality singing shows have never really been my thing. I’m not a big fan of music or art being portrayed as a competition and I find it jarring and strange to watch someone be critiqued publicly straight after a performance. For me, music and art are about authenticity and having something to say, so I’m not really interested in who has the ‘best’ voice or who’s the most popular. I don’t have the right kind of voice for those shows anyway, but even if I did, I would never audition for them because what you gain from winning wouldn’t make me happy or give me the career I wanted. You’re essentially a puppet without much control over your artistic output and, whilst that’s fine for some people, personally I love the sense of autonomy and control I have in running my own label and making the music and art I want to make.

What’s next for you?

It’s shaping up to be a really fun year with lots of exciting projects in the pipeline. I’ve just finished recording a Cover Songs EP and I’m working on the final touches ready for its release this year. I’ve put my own spin on a bunch of songs from the ‘80s, ‘90s and ‘00s and I’m currently deciding which songs to put out as singles and planning the videos. I can’t wait for people to hear them! I’ll also be starting to record my second album in

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FIND OUT MORE about Matt Website

www.mattfishel.com

Facebook

www.facebook.com/mattfishelofficial

Twitter

www.twitter.com/mattfishel

YouTube

www.youtube.com/mattfisheltv

Instagram

www.instagram.com/mattfishelmusic

iTunes

www.itunes.com/mattfishel

Store (CDs)

www.mattfishel.bandcamp.com

Respect Magazine : January 2014

The Respect

Moment of 2013 We asked you to let us know your most memorable moment for

Brighton Pride Literature Tent 2013. I think it was the first time they'd had such a thing and it was fantastic. Cup cakes & cups of tea were served as a backdrop to LGBTQ writers and poets. There was a wonderful mix of people both in the performers and audience.

Daniel Browne single handedly organised the first ever gay pride in Leamington Spa. This was a momentous moment for equality in our town.

equality in 2013. It could have been

L Fest in Uttoxeter,

something that has really stood out for you, such as a political landmark, memorable event, advert, something from the news or a celeb doing good. We received an amazing 560 suggestions, here are a few of them.....

England. Over 2,000 women for music, comedy, arts, authors, performers all gathered for 3 days of fun, acceptance & unity. Thank you, Cindy Edwards.

One of the most memorable moments of this year came in May when after watching the commons debate on equal marriage for hours on end crying, clapping, cheering and shouting at my laptop whilst writing my seemingly endless undergraduate dissertation. I finally heard the aye's have it the aye's have it. Never been so proud to be Welsh British and gay.

I was at the opening of the April Ashley, Portrait of a Lady exhibition, at the Museum of Liverpool and part of the Homotopia Festival. This was a very moving and inspiring experience. April, former model and actresses, now an MBE was one of the first people in the world to undergo pioneering gender reassignment surgery and campaigned for changes in the social and legal conditions for all LGBT people. The exhibition shared key and important moments of her amazing life.

April Ashley

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Respect Magazine : January 2014

The South London Lesbian Mums Group marching in the London Pride parade with our sons and daughters in the year gay marriages were legalised.

Stephen Fry's ‘Out There’ was the BEST doc on TV this year.

He deserves it for this alone.

Tilda Swinton in Russia powerful and exceptional.

Ben Cohen saying he wanted to dance with a male partner on Strictly Come Dancing.

London2018 was working hard to send

Paris Lees being number one on the Independent's Pink List and being on Question Time. It is great to see a trans person be number one on this list and given the respect she deserves and fantastic to see her on Question Time as an open trans person.

Seeing Alan Turing on his birthday on the bench in Sackville Gardens surrounded by gifts with a party hat on MADE MY DAY, or year should I say!

Alan Turing

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Some of the awards coverage

bids for London to host GayGame2018. The team of 8 people were making incredible efforts. truly that's real flying our flag.

We’ll announce the winners, decided for by our panel, in the next issue

Respect Magazine : January 2014

We are delighted to announce that The Albert Kennedy Trust is Respect’s ‘Charity of the Year’ for England in 2014.

The Albert Kennedy Trust supports lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans homeless young people in crisis.

Every day they deal with the effects homelessness can have on young people's lives.

They have offices in London, Manchester and Newcastle and throughout 2014 we will announce the details of our fundraising events in these locations, and further afield.

With your support we want to raise lots of money for the charity to support the essential work they do.

If you have any ideas for fundraising and would like to support us further, please email us at respectLGBT@cooperative.coop Over the next three pages we find out more about the great work they do to support young LGBT people.

36 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Respect Magazine : January 2014

A personal message to all ‘Friends of Respect’ from Tim Sigsworth, Chief Executive of The Albert Kennedy Trust The Albert Kennedy Trust are very proud and excited to have been chosen to be The Co-operative’s Respect Networks’ ‘Charity of the Year’ for 2014. This recognises a close and successful partnership which has seen the network’s members support both our programme of workshops with young people and our recently launched Purple Door project – the Northwest’s first housing project exclusively for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans (LGBT) young people.

The Albert Kennedy Trust provides safe homes, mentoring, support and training to LGBT young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness; facing abuse or rejection, just for being brave enough to come out to their families. Founded in 1989 in Manchester, in 2014 we celebrate 25 years of preventing lifetimes of homelessness across Manchester, Newcastle and London.

At The Albert Kennedy Trust we believe The Co-operative Group and and their Respect network reflect our values and beliefs around the importance of caring about people – whether they be our 200+ volunteers or the young people we help every day. We therefore feel there is a natural synergy between us and know that this partnership will go from strength to strength in 2014.

In this, our 25th year, as we start the journey towards becoming a national presence for LGBT youth in need; this honour could not have come at a more perfect time in our history.

“We believe The Co-operative Group and and their Respect network reflect our values and beliefs around the importance of caring about people”

Tim

From all at The Albert Kennedy Trust – thank you very much.

Tim Sigsworth Chief Executive The Albert Kennedy Trust

37 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Respect Magazine : January 2014

In 2013 the charity...

supported lodgings, with many more housed through their LGBT supportive housing partners.

Provided intensive support to over 750 young people facing homelessness, rejection and abuse.

Just over 1,800 hours of mentoring - ensuring the young people have a supportive role model.

Two case studies

Over 5,750 nights off the street in AKT accommodation and

On top of the many calls the team received, their staff and volunteers worked intensively with 718 young people facing crisis or ongoing issues.

The charity is supported by a 200+ team of dedicated volunteers.

Find out more about AKT at www.akt.org.uk I first found out about AKT through a workshop at a summer camp I was attending. At the time I was living in a hostel after my Mom had kicked me out, I was being bullied by other people staying there as I was ‘different’.

I was the only gay or bisexual person staying there and I was very confused. I was also not speaking to my family after I had been kicked out and I had been diagnosed with bipolar. I was not taking any medication as I had not had chance to register with a doctor after I had been kicked out. I felt very low at this time. I wanted to run away and I was thinking of moving to Manchester. I spoke to the woman who was running the AKT workshop about my problems – she suggested I get in contact with the office as AKT could help me.

When I rang AKT I immediately felt at ease, everyone has always been so positive and has found the time to listen to me. My adviser pointed me in the right direction to claim the correct benefits and suggested mentoring so I had someone to talk to.

I picked a male mentor, usually I felt threatened by men but something in his profile jumped out at me I think it was his love of science fiction! When we met we instantly got on, he was great fun and easy to talk to.

and sort out my medication. We talked about many things, my bipolar, relationships, the bullying at the hostel.

My mentor began to recognise when I was upset, he would check that I was meeting up with friends, leaving my flat and taking my medication. We had great banter but he was sensitive to know when to be serious if I was having an ‘off’ day. I felt really comfortable and supported by my mentor.

After a few months, meetings went from me talking about being scared, not knowing who I was – some really serious issues – to me planning my future, looking for work and even planning my wedding. I felt I no longer needed to be prompted by my mentor, I could see for myself what I needed to do.

The mentoring recently came to a natural end – I had recognised the change in myself as had everyone else and I was now in a position to make decisions independently and access support myself. I am so thankful for all the support AKT and my amazing mentor gave me, life would have been so much harder if I hadn’t had their help.

Donna Supported by the Albert Kennedy Trust

From the first meeting he gave me structure and advice. My mentor would also give me a ‘to do list’ to help me get organised. On my first to do list was to get registered with a doctor 38 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Follow the AKT on Twitter @AlbertKennedyTr

Respect Respect Magazine Magazine : January : January 2014 2014

We’ll be bringing you updates in every issue of Respect in 2014. Let’s make a difference!

John, a young gay man from Manchester, fled his homophobic father’s attacks after ‘coming out’ to his parents. He subsequently spent a couple of weeks sleeping in a gay sauna, as it provided warmth during the freezing winter nights, although this made him more vulnerable.

John now feels he was in ‘survival mode’ and could only think about how he was going to get through one day at a time. He admitted stealing a ‘cheap bottle of wine’ in order to be arrested and spend a night in the security of a police cell.

John then met a gay couple who offered him a room in their flat, which he accepted without knowing anything about them. It became evident soon into his stay, that they were controlling and violent. They ‘milked’ John for money as well as taking his benefits off him and pawning his possessions. They were aggressive to one another and sometimes involved John in this.

They were also into bondage and would try to ‘come on’ to John when they were drunk. John was now on prescription antidepressants and sleeping tablets for anxiety and depression,

although he was afraid of taking his sleeping tablets for fear of what the men would do to him if he fell asleep.

John contacted AKT stating he was homeless. John had an appointment with the local authority housing for an assessment but during the assessment process he was too upset to complete it. AKT helped him get through the assessment and he was subsequently awarded a ‘duty of care’ by the local authority as a ‘vulnerable adult’ and offered emergency accommodation. AKT liaised with the police to help get John’s belongings from the flat that day but he then decided that he wanted to return to the flat rather than go into emergency accommodation as he was afraid of being blackmailed.

AKT supported John in making a housing application for his own accommodation, and helped him complete the forms and supported him in attending medical assessments. But having stayed at the flat John’s depression was becoming worse and he disclosed that he was trying to order poison off the internet in order to take his own life. AKT liaised with the mental health Crisis Intervention team and supported him throughout the sessions. At one point John came into the office and 39 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

emotionally ‘broke down’ stating that he wanted to take his own life and had the poison on him. AKT staff took him to Accident and Emergency so that he could receive appropriate medical attention. A few days later John returned to the office stating that he was now ready to leave the men. The local authority has now rehoused John in supported lodgings until he finds his own flat. Meanwhile AKT have continued to support John practically and emotionally.

John says: ‘The past 6 months have probably been the worst months of my life for various reasons and for me there was no light at the end of the tunnel. That was until I met Glenda and everyone at the AKT. They shaped and guided me towards the light (my goal). The support they provided - emotional and tangible - made life a lot easier while I was trying to get my head around and cope with the situation.

Quite simply….without the help from the AKT I don’t think I would still be here to write this now. They’ve supported me through one of the biggest changes of my life.’

John Supported by the Albert Kennedy Trust

Respect Magazine : January 2014

Stonewall has published a ground-breaking review of its annual Workplace Equality Index which finds it continues to be ‘best in class’ The review confirms that organisations that took part year-on-year see tangible transformations in their workplaces.

The Workplace Equality Index Five Year Review, supported by EY, shows that the Index remains the most effective proven tool in Britain for improving the lives of lesbian, gay and bisexual people at work.

The Workplace Equality Index is the definitive

benchmark for employers who want to provide the best possible working environment for their lesbian, gay and bisexual staff. Over 800 organisations have entered Stonewall’s Workplace Equality Index over the last ten years from across the private, public and third sectors.

The Five Year Review enables Stonewall, and leading employers in the Workplace Equality Index, to further develop best-practice for gay and bi employees in Britain and around the world. The review sets out detailed plans for how organisations can ensure that equality in the workplace is a continuing commitment and looks at the challenges faced in engaging with harder to reach staff – particularly lesbians and bisexual people and black and minority ethnic gay staff.

Stonewall’s Deputy Chief Executive Ruth Hunt said: ‘Leading employers from across the country know that improving the working environment for gay employees makes good business sense. They also know that the Workplace Equality Index is the best tool for accelerating and embedding this work. This review will ensure that Stonewall’s Workplace Programme remains the best in class for improving the lives of gay people in the workplace’.

The Workplace Equality Index Five Year Review can be found here: www.stonewall.org.uk/ five_year_review Details of Stonewall’s Workplace Programme can be found here: www.stonewall.org.uk/WEI2014

40 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

The Co-operative were delighted to be asked to contribute to the review. Respect’s Co-Chair Thomas Anderson, Head of Employee Engagement & Diversity Liz Bramley and Group Board Director and Senior Champion for the network Jenny Barnes are all featured in the guide.

We particularly like this quote from Jenny (pictured) on why sexual orientation is important.

“Having a diverse range of people brings in diverse thought. The wider we think, the more productive and the more creative we become”

Stonewall’s flagship conference is back!

Book now!

Still buzzing from the hugely successful Workplace Conference in London in 2013, 2014’s Conference is set to be bigger and better than ever.

Stonewall’s Workplace Conference is the must-attend event for Diversity Champions and will give you all the tools you need to stay at the forefront of best practice in sexual orientation equality and diversity.

Attended by over 600 HR professionals, the leading conference provides an impressive line-up of speakers and masterclasses. 2014 highlights include brand new topics: service delivery, empowering line managers and global network groups.

New themed sessions cover introductory, practical, innovation, inspirational and global content tailored to support your organisation on its individual journey towards advancing sexual orientation equality in the workplace.

To view the full programme and book your place, go to www.stonewall.org.uk/ wpc2014 and learn how to go from good to great.”

stonewall workplace conference 2014 from good to great Respect Magazine : January 2014

Discover the latest innovation at the Stonewall Workplace Conference 2014 − the must attend event for anyone involved in delivering organisational diversity and inclusion. Go to stonewall.org.uk/wpc2014 to book your place and learn how to go from good to great!

Friday 11 April 2014, London SW1 stonewall.org.uk/wpc2014 Supported by

41 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop @stonewalluk #EqualAtWork

Respect Magazine : January 2014

respect 2013 Our biggest year yet 42 follow us on Twitter @cooprespectlgbt

Respect Magazine : January 2014

We’ve been loud and proud

In 2013......

Manchester Pride 2013

What a year 2013 was for the Respect network. We have had many great moments since the network was launched in the Summer of 2010 but we think 2013 definitely brought with it some of our proudest moments.

When the Respect team was thinking about bringing together some of our highlights from 2013 we really struggled.

So we decided to bring together a souvenir yearbook that really highlights our great 2013.

We couldn’t have done so much without the fantastic support and dedication of our Steering Group, our members and The Co-operative family of businesses who simply ‘get it’.

Thank you!

Here’s to a very busy 2014. We still have lots to do!

Our members vo lunteered over 3,500 hours of their time to support us at ev ents and charit y initiatives. Incr edible support!

Over 600 people attended a Respect arrange d event We launched ou r Twitter accou nt @CoopRespectL GBT in January and very quickly became the mos t followed UK LG BT network, en ding the year with ov er 7,400 follower s No other UK bu siness has supported more LGBT events, charities or init iatives than us!

Brighton Pride 2013 Brighton Pride 2013

43

Manchester Pride 2013

Respect Magazine : January 2014

Making history with Pride The Co-operative has supported over 85 LGBT events since 2010 and we have supported Pride events for over 10 years. This support continued in 2013 with our biggest, most vibrant and most authentic support of many events, all over the UK. Hundreds of our employees, members and customers joined us in our parade entries, being loud and proud. Supporting the diverse communities that we serve is ingrained in everything we do.

Here is a summary of the Pride events we supported in 2013:

Some highlights: Every event we have supported received financial support from The Co-operative, except Peel Park Pink Picnic that received raffle prizes - raising money for the event.

We gave away over 55,000 giveaways including our ‘Here for you this Pride’ flags, stickers, balloons, pens and over 4,000 rainbow rocket lollies from our Pride ice cream van. They went down a storm!

Big thanks to The Co-operative Membership teams all over the UK for your fantastic support.

Student Pride 1-3 March

Bristol Pride 13 July

Sparkle 11-14 July

Northern Pride 19-20 July

Hull Pride 20 -21 July

Nottinghamshire Pride 27 July

Sponsor

Sponsor

Sponsor

Sponsor

44 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Sponsor

Sponsor

Respect Magazine : January 2014

We’ve been smiling with Pride

Peel Park Pink Picnic 28 July

Brighton Pride 3 August

Stoke Pride 10 August

Glasgow Pride 10 August

Manchester Pride 24 August

Reading Pride 31 August

Cardiff Mardis Gras 31 August

Grimsby Pride 31 August

Cumbria Pride 5 October

Supporter

Sponsor

Sponsor

Sponsor

45 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Sponsor

Sponsor

Respect Magazine : January 2014

January We were the first ever retailer to enter the Top10 of the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index - ranking 3rd | The only retailer to feature in the Top100 | Respect awarded Stonewall ‘Star Performer Network’ for 3rd year | Ranked most gay friendly employer in the North West of England | We hosted the North West Stonewall Awards | An article about Respect featured in The Times newspaper | We also featured in The Sun & The Co-op News | Our Thomas Anderson & Chris Hanson were interviewed by Stonewall for a video for their website | A two page article about The Co-op featured in the ‘Out At Work’ magazine and online | @CoopRespectLGBT launched

February Respect’s Fundraising Officer Anna Hanson was named ‘Co-operator of the Year’ at The Co-op Pharmacy Awards in recognition of her work supporting the network | We sponsored the ‘Stand Tall, Get Snapped’ photo exhibition featuring people living with HIV abolish stigma | We hosted our Stonewall WEI celebration event & 60 members attended | Barefoot Wine announced as Respect’s official event wine sponsor | The Co-op’s 1st advert in the LGBT media featured in ‘g3 and Out In The City’ mags | We supported LGBT History Month

We donated hundreds of tubes of ‘Love Heart’ sweets to the Lesbian & Gay Foundation for them to give away as part of their initiatives to raise the profile of equal marriage | Coronation St actor, and LGBT campaigner Charlie Condou appeared in our Respect magazine | Articles about Respect appeared on many LGBT websites including www.canal-st.co.uk | It was all about equal marriage this month | The Co-operative was the only business in the UK to give evidence in support of equal marriage in UK Parliament | Liz Bramley, Head of Employee Engagement & Diversity gave the evidence| We released a press release | We encouraged our employees, members and customers to contact their MP | We produced a video and sent it viral on Facebook | The story featured on websites including The Grocer | We couldn’t have been prouder!

Liz Bramley

46 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Respect Magazine : January 2014

March We sponsored Student Pride in Brighton | Respect members from our Funeralcare branch in Brighton supported us at the event | We supplied Co-op Food & wine for the VIP launch of Student Pride too | After a national vote students voted The Co-op their ‘Employer of the Year’ | The Spring issue of The Co-op’s employee staff mag US! was published and featured a two page article all about the Respect network | Our Co-chair Thomas Anderson and his partner Matthew (who works in a Co-op Food store) were the first same sex couple to appear in a Co-op staff magazine - this followed Thomas being named a ‘Co-op Pride’ award winner for his work supporting the Respect network | Dan Gillespie Sells, lead singer of chart-topping group The Feeling (pictured) showed his support for the Respect network | We supported International Women’s Day and Steering Group member Kelly Sands presented at the Co-op’s official event to mark the day | Another great month

April We collaborated with the LGBT network for PwC ‘GLEE@PwC’ for a great event in Manchester where Co-op & PwC representatives shared best practice and discussed why having an inclusive workplace was so important | The 90 guests enjoyed the Co-op wine on offer | We were crowned ‘LGBT Network of the Year’ at the g3 Magazine Readers’ Awards in London | The magazine is aimed at lesbian and bisexual women | To celebrate we did a special photoshoot with lots of our female members | The Co-operative was invited to present at Stonewall’s Workplace Conference in London. Head of Marketing for The Co-operative Funeralcare Lorinda Robinson presented about authentically marketing to LGBT consumers | We featured on the front page of Co-op News This is the month the Respect Newsletter became the Respect Magazine. The issue was our biggest to date, at 44 pages, and we started with the team from The Co-op Funeralcare branch in Brighton being our Guest Editor’s of the issue | It is also the month that we started to publish the magazine online at http://issuu.com/cooprespectlgbt

Respect Exclusive We were delighted to feature one of the only UK interviews from the winner of ‘Eurovision 2012’ Loreen in the Respect Magazine this month. She was also our cover star. Her song ‘Euphoria’ remains a Respect favourite. We are pleased to announce that in 2014 Respect’s Entertainment Editor Will O’Regan will be at Eurovision 2014 as an official Eurovision correspondent.

Expect some more Respect exclusives later this year!

47 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Respect Magazine : January 2014

May

June

This month the UK’s first Inter-Retail LGBT network checkOUT was launched by us at Co-op HQ | It was officially launched by legend Peter Tatchell as well as representatives from Stonewall and the Lesbian & Gay Foundation | It also played host to our first Respect conference, ‘Equality in the workplace and beyond’ | 170 people attended from over 40 organisations | It was one of the biggest LGBT events (non Pride) the North West has ever hosted | The Co-operative Food sponsored the event with support from Barefoot Wine and Village Bakers | All guests were given a special goody bag to mark the occasion that included lots of Co-op Food delights, inc a bottle of our award winning Prosecco | We were named ‘Corporate Sponsor of the Year’ at the Albert Kennedy Trust’s ‘Albert’s Awards’ | This followed the support from the Respect network that included lots of our members volunteering to paint rooms in their Purple Door safe house as well as The Co-op Electrical donating all the white goods for the house | We announced that listener’s of Bristol’s LGBT radio show ShoutOUT voted The Co-op Bank their ‘Best Bank’ |The Pride flag flew from most Co-op major occupancy buildings for International Day Against Homophobia | We sponsored 100 Pride flags so other organisations could also show their support | An article written by us about Respect featured in g3 Magazine

48 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Respect supported the Albert Kennedy Trust’s ‘Big Purple Weekender’ event with some Respect members volunteering and The Co-op donated a hamper for their raffle | Our Respect Magazine featured interviews with X Factor star Craig Colton, Dragon’s Den presenter Evan Davis and author Manda Scott |Head of Employee Engagement and Diversity at Co-op, Liz Bramley, presented at the Stonewall Manchester Workplace Conference | We sponsored the t-shirts for the National AIDs Trust volunteers walking in the London Pride parade

Over 70 LGBT themed articles have appeared on The Co-operative intranet since 2010.

Respect Magazine : January 2014

ALBERT’S WINNER

Some of our award successes 49 email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

Respect Magazine : January 2014

July

August

September

This was the month our Pride season really kicked off | We supported Northern, Nottinghamshire, Hull and Bristol Pride events | The Co-op Funeralcare unveiled their new ‘Rainbow coffins’ that we took to many events this Summer | We sponsored Gaydio’s ‘Project Pride’ | Our ‘Making history with Pride’ ads began to appear in Pride Guide’s all over the UK | Co-op Board Director Jenny Barnes became our newest Senior Sponsor | We sponsored and volunteered at ‘Sparkle’ | Our James Wharton event was attended by over 80 people

We sponsored Manchester Pride for the 5th consecutive year | 130 ‘Friends of Respect’ joined us in our parade entry | We brought along our pride ice cream van and gave away 4,000 free rainbow rocket lollies | We gave away 1000s of ‘Here for you this Pride’ coupons that had the offer ‘Spend £6 and save £2’ helping pride goers save a bit off their shopping at The Co-op Food | Our 244sqm billboard dominated Canal St | Two Respect adverts in huge newspaper Metro | We had an ad in the Out North West Mag | We took part in the Brighton Pride parade & Co-op Membership had a stand| Supported Glasgow, Reading, Stoke & Cardiff Pride events | Donated food to Lunch Positive

A full page article about the Respect network featured in GScene mag | We supported Bi Visibility Day and our event featured a panel of speakers including Meg Barker, Darren Knight of the LGF and Jen Yockney | 40 Respect members attended | We were named ‘Business of the Year’ at the ‘Homo Heroes Awards’ - for 3rd consecutive year | Shortlisted for three European Diversity Awards inc ‘Network of the Year’, ‘Business of the Year’ and our Co-Chair Thomas Anderson for ‘Diversity Champion of the Year’ | We sponsored the National Diversity Awards

Our 2013 ‘Pride Guides’ have been viewed more than 50,000 times

50 follow us on twitter @cooprespectlgbt

Respect Magazine : January 2014

A FIRST CLASS FUNDRAISER

Manchester Pride

Su ersonic CHARITY

EVENING

Friday 11th April 2014, from 7pm Concorde Hangar, Manchester Airport

Booking and info: manchesterpride.com/supersonic Raising money for LGBT and HIV charities and organisations in Greater Manchester

manchesterpride #supersonic 51 follow us on twitter @cooprespectlgbt Company number: 4671318. Registered charity number: 1117848

Respect Magazine : January 2014

October We sponsored Cumbria Pride and 20 employees supported us and The Co-op Membership at the event | We sponsored the UK’s biggest gay awards ceremony ‘The Attitude Awards’ | Celebs papped beside the Co-op logo included Ellie Goulding (pictured) and Daniel Radcliffe | Cher touched us | We’re pretty sure Cher enjoyed her Co-op Food lemon surprise muffins | Respect shortlisted for ‘Business Network of the Year’ at the inaugural PinkNews Awards | We supported National Coming Out Day | Co-op Funeralcare sponsored the Gay Wedding Show | We presented at the Stonewall Cymru conference

November December We raised awareness of ‘Transgender Day of Remembrance’ with an intranet article and employee fact-sheet | We launched our ‘Respect ‘Loved by You’ Awards’ with 27 diverse categories | News of the awards got out and articles about them were published by GScene Magazine and The Gay UK | We attended the Stonewall Awards in London | We supported Stonewall’s homophobic language campaign

In 2013 we featured in 4 Stonewall publications ‘Starting Out’, ‘Maintaining Network Group Momentum’, ‘5 Year Workplace Index Review’ and ‘Friends - Winter’

52 follow us on twitter @cooprespectlgbt

On 1 December we supported ‘World AIDS Day’ | We published an article and factsheet on the Intranet | The Coop posted an article on their Facebook page and on Twitter it became one of their most shared of the year | The Respect network Steering Group welcomed lots of new members who have great plans for 2014 | The Co-operative Group Board personally donated Christmas gifts to the young people living in the Albert Kennedy Trust’s ‘Purple Door’ house in Manchester | We announced the winners of our ‘Respect ‘Loved by You’ Awards’ | The awards have reached over 12.5 million people | Legend Stephen Fry tweeted that he was honoured to win his award | We were proud | What a way to end a fabulous year

Respect Magazine : January 2014

Our LGBT advertising in 2013 We recruit a truly diverse workforce Everyone here has an equal opportunity to find their pot of gold

One of the first things the Respect network Steering Group asked themselves in 2013 was ‘Why hasn’t The Co-operative ever advertised in the LGBT media?’.

So off we went and we asked the question to the business.

There was no real answer why we hadn’t, just no one had ever done it. So we did it. And we did it authentically with

new adverts, starting with the rainbow umbrella ad, then the ‘Making history with Pride’ ad over the Summer and ending in the new ‘You’re Welcome’ ads featuring Respect members.

The ads have appeared in over fifteen publications in 2013 including the METRO, g3, Midlands Zone, GScene and Out In The City + many more!

See ou ad belo r w in the Fe b 2014 i ssue of atti tude

the 2013 Stonewall proud to be ranked 3rd onthat we’ve now been s diversity, we’re immensely the fact As a business that truly value appear in the Top 100. And to s, we think, r retaile Award rs’ only the Reade – g3 Workplace Equality Index yee Network Group of the Year’ at the 2013 shortlisted for ‘LGBT Emplogenuine passion for diversity and inclusion too. networking, mentoring, offers and ers speaks volumes about our memb 1200 network Respect, has over s the UK. And, this proactive commitment to as e e acros Our inclusive employee LGBT all as individual and divers opportunities to our peopl development and social h is also reflected in our team members, who are practicing what we preac mer base that they serve. . custo apply and to s talent unitie of ity comm the me a broad divers equal opportunities and welco tive.jobs We are passionate about tunities at www.co-opera wide range of career oppor Please take a look at our

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have been ranked immensely proud to values diversity, we’re . And the fact As a business that truly every year since 2010 ly retailer by Stonewall and & Wales) in UK (Engl age Marri the UK’s most gay friend l ess to support Equa inclusion too. busin and only sity the diver were that we passion for es about our genuine orted Parliament speaks volum we have proudly supp , and since 2010 alone other has been each This orting UK. the supp We believe in groups all over events and community has over 8,500 ork ‘Respect’ which over 85 LGBT charities, netw LGBT oyee winning empl networks in Europe. driven by our award largest and most active making it one of the .

‘Friends of Respect’, ities planned for 2014 activ sed focu ing community ectlgbt We have lots of excit perative.coop/resp .co-o www at Find out more

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Respect Magazine : January 2014

Our Respect Magazine was viewed over 100,000 times in 2013 When the Respect network launched just over 3 years ago we thought it was essential to issue a regular newsletter to keep our members engaged and to share member stories, and celebrate all things LGBT.

It very quickly became clear that our little 10 page quarterly newsletter needed to be bigger, and more regular. That is what you told us!

So from that, in early 2013 we renamed the publication, now

known as the ‘Respect Magazine’ and we developed the content to bring you more of what you loved. And in 2013 we have brought you over 400 pages of content. We hope you’ve enjoyed our little magazine that we’re very proud of.

Thank you to our Entertainment Editor Will O’Regan for your fantastic contributions to the magazine in 2013.

We’ve loved your work.

The well known faces we have interviewed for the magazine in 2013 John Whaite | Liz McClarnon Evan Davis | Toyah Wilcox | Cleo Higgins | Loreen | Charlie Condou | Liam Powell Hazell Dean | Craig Colton | Stooshe | Steve Anderson | Christopher Maloney | Scarlet Street | Ben Kelly | Amity | Manda Scott | John Amaechi | Elly Barnes | James Wharton Thank you to Respect member Kineta Kelsall for your informative contributions to the magazine. We look forward to seeing what is next #respect

Some of the events, brands, community groups and charities we have featured and supported in 2013 Outdoor Lads : checkOUT : Barefoot Wine : Sparkle : g3 : Manchester Pride : Sauce FM : GlasGay : Homotopia : Chester Pride : Girls Night Out : Stonewall : Stonewall Cymru : Stonewall Scotland : Manchester Frontrunners : Lunch Positive : Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus : Student Pride : MIND : Equity Partnership : Lesbian & Gay Foundation : Stand Tall, Get Snapped : Gaydio : Village Bakers : Broken Rainbow : South Wales Gay Women’s Choir : The Co-operative News : The Lowry, Salford : London Gay Men’s Chorus : Movember : Carer’s Trust : Terrence Higgins Trust : G-A-Y : Radius : Inclusive Employers : Aspire : REACH : Gay Wedding Show : The Rainbow Intersection : BiPhoria : Manchester LGBT Professional Networking : Attitude : PinkNews : Gay Star News : Out In The City : GScene : Midlands Zone : METRO : FFLAG : Manchester Sharks : Lunch Positive : Cumbria Pride : George House Trust : Hull Pride : Cardiff Mardis Gras : Yorkshire MESMAC : Student Pride : Albert Kennedy Trust : National Diversity Awards : LGBT Adoption & Fostering Week : BeLGBT : National AIDS Trust (NAT) : London Pride : Bristol Pride : The Lady Boys Of Bangkok : GLEE@PwC : Manchester Lesbian & Gay Chorus : Sparkle : LGBT Youth North West : Qukulele : Out North East : Out North West : Canal St : Taurus : LGBT History Month : Glasgow Pride + more 54

Respect Magazine : January 2014

What will 2014 bring?

55 follow us on twitter @cooprespectlgbt

Pride House Manchester

Respect Magazine : January 2014

PRIDE HOUSE MANCHESTER... In response to

TO RUSSIA WITH LOVE... To mark the opening of

the call from Pride House International, Manchester’s LGBT community is hosting a Pride House on the world famous Canal Street during the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games to support equality and inclusion in sport and society, to condemn discriminatory laws and practices, and to promote the values of sport for all. Visit www.pridehousemcr.com

the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Manchester’s LGBT theatre community are presenting 24 hours of protest and performance to draw attention to homophobia in the host country. The aim is to send a message of love and support to the LGBT community in Russia. The event will feature To Russia With Love: Stage a performance of new writing at the Contact, Manchester (as part of the Queer Contact 2014). See http://contactmcr.com/whats-on/11258-qc2014-torussia-with-love-stage/ for more info.

#SSHHI... Pride House Manchester launches it's Same Sex Hand Holding Initiative in support of Russia's LGBT community. This is a global programme introduced by Pride House International and it is so easy for you to get involved using your own social media. You’re invited to tweet a photo of you holding the hands of someone of the same sex. It could be of you with your partner, friends or family member. This is simply a public display of solidarity. Tweet your pics using the hashtag #SSHHI and the pics will form part of a permanent photo album.

7th - 23rd Feb 2014 www.pridehousemcr.com | @PrideHouseMCR

56 follow us on twitter @cooprespectlgbt

Respect Magazine : January 2014

Out at Tesco Networking Event 29th Jan, Glasgow Out at Tesco, the employee LGBT network at Tesco, will be hosting a networking event at their Tesco Bank office in Glasgow from 6pm on 29th January 2014.

g n i k r o w t e Let’s get n UPCOMING EVENT National student pride is coming to London on 21-23 February.

Full details and line up to be announced, outline as follows: Friday night: Opening party at Camp Attack, G-A-Y Heaven Saturday daytime festival: At Westminster University, Marylebone campus (opposite Madame Tussauds & Baker Street tube) Saturday night: Club night at G-A-Y Heaven Sunday: Film screenings Keep updated at www.studentpride.co.uk and by following the event on Twitter at @studentpride

GLEE@PwC An evening of light hearted entertainment 6th Feb, Manchester GLEE@PwC North invite you and your team to a comedy night to continue the festive buzz into the New Year.

We hope you can join them for nibbles, drinks and most importantly an evening of light hearted entertainment. This will be a networking event for professionals from Manchester and the surrounding areas who are keen to develop new business relationships so don't forget your business cards!

Tesco are a member of the UK’s first Inter-Retail LGBT network checkOUT that we spearheaded the launch of in 2013. And through this relationship, you’re invited!

They’re delighted to invite you along to join them for a few drinks and light bites, find out a bit more about their network and meet other like minded people from different organisations.

You’ll have a chance to hear about Equality and Diversity at Tesco from some of the key senior sponsors for Out at Tesco on the evening and meet colleagues from across Tesco and other organisations in the Glasgow area.

Buffet and light refreshments will be provided.

Please feel free to circulate this invite in your workplace or social network as the event is open to all who are supportive of the GLEE@PwC vision!

When: Thursday, 6 February 2014 Where: PwC Manchester, 101 Barbirolli Square, Lower Mosley Street, Manchester, M2 3PW Time: 6pm start Please RSVP glee.events@uk.pwc.com

by Friday, 31 January 2014

For more information and to sign up for the event, visit their event page at https://outattesco.eventbrite.co.uk/

sletter online at View the quarterly checkOUT new | Follow checkOUT on Twitter at http://issuu.com/checkoutlgbt rk on Facebook at @checkOUTLGBT | Like the netwo T www.facebook.com/CheckOUTLGB 57 follow us on twitter @cooprespectlgbt

Respect Respect Magazine Magazine :: January January 2014 2014

Colleague Support In your workplace

If you are able to speak to your line manager, that would be the preferred route (unless of course your line manager is the issue).

Alternatively, you can speak to your HR manager if this is preferable.

Respect

You can also contact the Respect network for confidential support and guidance. Email us at respectLGBT@co-operative.coop

The Employee Engagement & Diversity Team

The team can offer advice about specific matters relating to issues in the workplace and point you in the right direction. You can contact them by email at inclusive.teams@co-

operative.coop or call 0161 246 2646.

Employee Assistance Programme Validium

You can contact and talk in confidence with one of Validium’s professional counsellors or specialists 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on: UK Landline: 0800 970 1030 Mobile: 0330 332 9996 For online support join vClub at validium.com Username: Coop Password: Group1844

Speak Up

We have a whistle-blowing hotline called ‘Speak Up’. You can call free on 0800 374199. Calls are handled by an external provider.

Callers can remain anonymous and untraceable.

Useful development tools at your fingertips The Co-operative Group Ashridge virtual learning centre contains everything from learning guides to book reviews, management pocket books and economic trend data.

Please visit the site as it’s a great reference point to assist your personal continuous professional development journey.

Site: www.ashridge.org.uk/ashridge/vlrc.nsf Login: cooperativegroup Password: coglogin If for what ever reason you can’t view this and you would like to, please let us know.

Our next issue will be published in February 2014 This magazine has been produced by the ‘Respect’ network, the inclusive lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) network for The Co-operative Group W: www.co-operative.coop/respectlgbt T: @CoopRespectLGBT E: respectLGBT@co-operative.coop 58 follow us on twitter @cooprespectlgbt News | Events | Charity | Fundraising | Inclusive | Respect | Diversity | Volunteer