Virgin Media O2, the telecoms giant formed last year following a £31 billion merger, has announced plans to support its trans staff by paying for their gender transition. The bold move is part of the company’s overarching “diversity, equity and inclusion” policy, which also aims to increase ethnic minority representation to 15% of its leadership and 25% more broadly across the organisation. The company’s policy also aims to achieve equal representation of men and women on its leadership team by 2027.
In a statement, the company said, “Virgin Media is introducing a number of more equitable policies to ensure it is offering the right support and flexibility for all employees.
“The company wants to help people be their best both at work and in their personal lives. One way Virgin Media is committed to doing this is by funding gender transition treatment for its transgender and non-binary employees. Virgin Media O2 will help them access medical care, support and advice, and is working on a complete support package.”
Chief People Officer Philipp Wohland added, “Virgin Media O2’s purpose is to upgrade the UK; that’s not just through our leading products and services, it’s also by the type of company we want to be and the role we play in society.
“With our “All In: strategy, we’re taking a step-change in our approach to creating a more inclusive and equitable company – both for our employees and customers, where we truly represent the diverse communities we serve.
“Virgin Media O2 is a great place to work and we’re committed to creating a culture where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
The company’s policy mirrors that of London law firms Herbert Smith Freehills and Linklaters who already offer financial help to trans and non-binary employees.
