More needs to be done to promote gender diversity and inclusion in the property sector, according to Freehold.

The networking forum for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender property professionals says that even though great strides are being made with regard to LGBTQ+ rights, many challenges persist.

“The property industry needs to keep promoting an inclusive persona – creating a culture where people are respected and appreciated,” said Ian Pattinson, a senior regeneration manager at Southern Housing Group, and a member of Freehold.

“One of my long-term goals is to have a private space where members of the LGBTQ+ community in the property sector could meet and conduct business,” he added. “Training courses about ways to be an ally to all would be the best way to strengthen the LGBTQ+ group in property.”

Since its official launch in September 2011, Freehold has grown to over 1,000 members and continues to expand.

Scott Parsons, also a member of Freehold and chief operating officer UK at Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, commented: “I’m hoping that in the new year we’ll see in-person networking events become more common again. Even though virtual events serve their purpose, I find that getting together fosters a real sense of inclusion, especially for minority groups.

“When we return to a more normal way of work and life, my hope is that the important topics, like diversity and inclusion and mental health, keep the focus that they received during the pandemic and don’t get forgotten or pushed to the back burner again.”

Marko Salopek, project manager at Clarion Housing Group, added: “Role models and networking for members of the LGBTQ+ community remains an integral part of the workspace. My wish is to see more opportunities and more members stepping forward to shine a light for those who are still new to the community.

“Strong internal communication is vital to achieve all of these. There should be an ongoing chat, to everyone in the company, about the issues at hand and how to help/handle them if they arise.”