AA Insurance has introduced its first Gender Affirmation Policy as part of its involvement with the Pride Pledge initiative, reflecting the company’s commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace.
The insurer became a Pride Pledge signatory in August, joining other organisations in supporting LGBTQ+ inclusion.
The Gender Affirmation Policy is designed to provide tailored assistance to employees managing their gender identity and expression, ensuring they feel supported and respected at work.
Paula Williams, chief people officer at AA Insurance, emphasised the importance of creating an inclusive culture.
“Implementing our gender affirmation policy isn’t just a step toward inclusivity – it’s a commitment to creating a workplace where all employees feel respected, valued, and able to bring their full selves to work,” she said.
The new policy is aimed at providing flexible and individualised support for team members undergoing gender affirmation.
According to Stephen Grey (pictured second from right), talent acquisition consultant and leader of the company’s rAAInbow Employee Action Group, the approach considers each employee’s unique circumstances.
“The policy will be in place to support the unique needs of our team members. We know that everyone’s journey is different, and when someone is considering affirming their gender, we’ll develop a customised plan in consultation with the individual, their leader and/or a member of the People and Capability team, an EAP counsellor, and any support from their team,” he said.
The policy also aligns AA Insurance with the recently launched Pride Pledge Gender Affirmation Policy register, which lists organisations that have adopted measures to support gender-diverse employees.
Martin King, Pride Pledge director, said that the register promotes transparency and accountability in advancing LGBTQ+ inclusion.
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The register highlights policies that cover aspects such as gender-affirming leave, inclusive facilities, dress codes, pronoun use, and support mechanisms to help employees thrive.
As part of its broader inclusivity efforts, AA Insurance has introduced Pride Pledge training for its leadership team and plans to expand similar programmes companywide.
The company’s digital team is also collaborating with the rAAInbow group to incorporate inclusive pronouns and gender expression options into its digital platforms.
John Lewis, head of enterprise data and architecture and a sponsor of the rAAInbow group, shared insights from the Pride Pledge training.
“Attending the Pride Pledge leadership session was about growing my own knowledge and understanding so I can continue to use my position (and privilege) to create a safer and more inclusive organisation for our Rainbow communities,” he said.
