2016 was a pivotal year for Manchester United and the club’s engagement with the LGBT+ community. After working closely with one of their principal partners, Aon, Richard made a conscious effort to make Manchester United a place that was more welcoming to all individuals, regardless of their individual characteristics. The club worked hard to bring in an Equality and Inclusion Manager who has developed internal Inclusion Networks, one of which is focused on LGBT+ engagement and allows employees to share their thoughts and influence work going forward. Under Richard’s leadership, Manchester United is an active member of Stonewall’s TeamPride coalition, supporting events such as Stonewall’s TeamPride conference in February 2016, and this year hosting Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces Summit at Old Trafford. Additionally, Richard has actively sought out leaders from competing teams within the Premier League as well as agents of high profile players to engage and encourage these influential figures be more outspoken in support of LGBT issues and campaigns. This has increased the participation in the campaigns.
