MPA Gender+

An inclusive space for people of all gender identities to promote equal opportunities for people of all genders in the workplace and encourage engagement with questions on gender equality.

Why Gender+?

The MPA believe everyone should be given the opportunity and support to succeed in their career, regardless of their gender. However, women in particular need more support than their male counterparts to succeed in the workplace. We need to keep growing the opportunities for women to develop their careers within our sector. This in turn, will increase the number of role models, inspire future generations and help to break long-held gender biases held by both men and women, often subconsciously. Gender+ is not just for women – when men need support, or are held back by biases and outdated policies, the Network will provide assistance and raise awareness to ensure everyone can reach their full potential.

Gender equality is not fully achieved through reaching parity between women and men. We also need to take account of identities beyond the binary and provide an inclusive space for people of all gender identities, promote equal opportunities for people of all genders in the workplace and encourage engagement with questions on gender equality. The Network will regularly organise events, including informal networking sessions, lunchtime seminars, and panel discussions to raise awareness.
What is it about and who can join?

The Network is open to all MPA Member employees, including those of us working at the MPA. It is also open to allies.

Please note that any personal information discussed during the meetings is confidential and is not minuted.
How is the Network hosted?

The Network is hosted on Microsoft Teams, where members can have conversations on Channels, share files and resources and host meetings online. The Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI) Team are on hand to help, and to take forward any issues raised by the Network. The Microsoft Teams site is a private group and though there is some degree of visibility when you join (other members can see who you are), we request that members maintain strict confidentiality about its membership and contents.

This Network is supported by the MPA DEI team, but it is not our Network: it is yours. We hope that the Network will be led by you for you. We are currently gathering ideas on how members want to run the Network and what you want to get out of it. Colleagues will have the opportunity to contribute in a variety of ways: for example, through Team Meetings online, Channel discussions via Teams, by email or phone.