Did you know that 33% of UK LGBTQ+ employees have hidden that they are LGBT at work for fear of discrimination?
This is something we really don't want at RS Components – what we want is for everyone to feel included and to be themselves at work. That's why we launched SPECTRUM - a community for LGBTQ+ colleagues and allies. We still have a long way to go and need to respect local laws in the countries where we operate. But the launch of Spectrum, so-called because gay or straight we all sit somewhere on the Spectrum, is an important step to becoming a truly diverse work force.
At RS Components, we are committed to creating a culture that values and champions our differences and creating an environment built on inclusion where everyone can “make amazing happen”. As we continue to grow and evolve we believe that, by embracing the LGBTQ+ community it enables our people to feel engaged, bring their true selves to work , have a voice and know that they are heard.
Jessica Chu, Group Head of Diversity, Inclusion and Engagement
Our people say
“My passport was still in my former name. When it was accepted as ID proof without question, along with my deed poll confirmation of a name change, I knew I was joining a company where I could be accepted for who I really was. I've had amazing support from my colleagues.”
Preston Taylor, co- founder of Spectrum, is transgender and transitioned to live as male at the age of 30.
“My children are my fuel, they deserve to grow up in a world where they can be whoever they want to be – us creating this community is not only my way of telling them that I support whoever they become, but it’s also my way of helping others do the same. No one should be judged on their sexuality, race or looks! I’m proud to be an ally and I’m here to offer support to those who need it within the LGBTQ+ community.”
Georgina Jarrett, co-founded Spectrum and works in the Digital Content team
“ My sister came out as gay in 2015 and worked at RS during this time. Her experience was, on the whole, good at work, but I feel RS has a way to go to make it the perfect environment for this community. The Spectrum launch was fantastic and I look forward to seeing changes within the company for the future. “
Luke Payne, Inventory Planner – Tools, Consumables & Facilities Management
“ I find RS to be a very multi-cultural place to work so it is no surprise that we are working within an LGBT spectrum to be more socially aware of our colleagues and some of the issues and anxieties they may experience at work. RS allies have more visibility by wearing LGBT lanyards. More and more people are asking about our LGBT lanyards, and why are we wearing them. This is one of the best ways to start conversations.”
Christina Houston, Global Offer – Service Delivery & Operations
We are RS
Increasingly powered by digital technology, we're our customers' one-stop-shop for electronic products and components.
But if we’re going to be first choice for customers, we also want to be first choice for our future colleagues. We’re looking for people who are passionate to support the customers of today, and the engineers of tomorrow. Grow in our high-performance culture and be rewarded for your success. Whoever you are, whatever you do and wherever you are; it all starts here.
“ In my role as an Executive Sponsor and Ally to the LGBTQ+ community I want to drive support and raise awareness that this is fundamentally important to not only me, but my peers and our organisation. I’m excited about our partnership with myGwork and I look forward to sponsoring our Diversity & Inclusion journey for the LGBTQ+ community at RS. ”
Debbie Lentz, President of Global Supply Chain & Executive Sponsor for our LGBTQ+ network
