We listened. We learned. Back in 2020 we made a pledge. This is our commitment and ongoing work to combat and counter all kinds of inequality within our business, and to increase representation, diversity and inclusion.
We're currently focusing on supporting three key areas; anti-racism, LGBTQIA+ and disability awareness. This is a long term plan aimed at making real change, with our latest updates below (last updated May 2022). We're always open to feedback and suggestions, so please do get in touch with any additional ideas at contactdiversity@1rebel.com.
We're aiming to create a fully diverse workforce and a safe, inclusive working environment.
1.
We're aiming to create an environment for all our customers that is safe, welcoming and inclusive.
2.
We're working to support people and communities from marginalised backgrounds outside of 1Rebel.
3.
We're in the process of educating our community and help them become better allies for those around them.
4.
1 - TEAM
We've been working hard to improve our recruitment processes to create a more diverse team; for all role types in the business. We still have a long way to go but are pleased with the progress we are making, particularly in our trainer team who are more culturally diverse than before.
We have been hosting focus groups for different communities within our business, providing a safe space for them to express feedback that can lead to meaningful change.
We are also implementing a programme of talks for our internal teams, with external speakers. These are designed to educate and inspire.
2 - EXPERIENCE
We are working on a number of areas in our clubs, including:
MUSIC - Further diversifying the music in clubs, classes and events and ensuring all discrimatory language is removed.
COSMETICS - Adding products to our changing rooms for more diverse hair and skin types.
ACCESS - Reviewing all clubs to make approvements in access.
RETAIL - Making a wider range of sizes available and introducing items such as sports hijabs.
3 - GIVING BACK
We have been working with two charities; Blueprint For All (formerly The Stephen Lawrence Trust), who support young people from marginalised communities, and Not A Phase, who raise awareness to support trans people.
Blueprint For All were our partner charity for Black History Month, when we raised money via events, in club donation points and an exclusive tote bag. We have since been part of their Entrepreneurship Course, where we ran a dedicated module, which we will be repeating later in 2022, and we have several team members who are now mentors for some of the young people they work with. Our very own Lara is also running the London Marathon this year for them.
Not A Phase were our partner charity for Pride, where our exclusive t-shirt helped raise money for their incredible work. Will will be working with them again for Pride this year.
4 - EDUCATION
We have been busy creating a whole host of content for our social channels, including dedicated series on anti-racism, LGBTQIA+ Instagram Lives and focuses on key cultural moments.
Highlights include an interview with Not A Phase founder Dani, a training during Ramadan guide and everyday racism series.
