Virgin Holidays has this week launched a host of initiatives aimed at tackling discrimination against LGBT travellers and the companies own staff.
Among the schemes launched which will make up Virgin’s ‘Lose The Labels’ campaign, the holiday company will be hosting its own LGBT equality conference.
The conference will encourage its travel partners in regions that have traditionally held hostile attitudes towards LGBT travellers to become more inclusive and adopt LGBT-friendly policies.
Virgin chief executive Sir Richard Branson said: “At Virgin Holidays, we believe everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, has the right to be whoever they are, wherever they are. That’s why it is shocking that in today’s society some of us can’t even enjoy a simple holiday without fear of discrimination. It’s fantastic that Virgin Holidays are raising awareness around this important issue.”
As part of the campaign which is set to run for three years Virgin will be joining LGBT charity Stonewall as a Diversity Champion.
This partnership will see Virgin working with Stonewall to ensure that the right advice and support is given to LGBT staff allowing them to feel comfortable being themselves in the workplace.
Virgin Holiday’s pledge to tackle anti-LGBT travel destinations comes as the company published a new survey revealing 37% of LGBT travellers experienced some form of discrimination while on holiday, while 6% said they experienced a threat of physical violence over their sexuality.
Virgin Holidays also found that 63% of LGBT Brits would refuse to travel somewhere that had an unwelcoming attitude to LGBT people, and that 23% change the way they act to try and hide their sexuality while on holiday.
Virgin Holidays managing director Mark Anderson added: “We want everyone to feel comfortable when travelling abroad and encourage everyone, regardless of their sexuality, to take on the world. We will continue to address this complex issue, and will be a proactive force for change in the LGBT community.”
To find out more about Virgin Holidays and to book a break to one of their many destinations why not visit your local store in Tesco Extra, Ocotal Way, Swindon.
You can call to book an appointment on 0344 557 1721 or email tescoswindon@virginholidays.com
