Popular ‘Out on the Roof’ fundraiser returns in 2022 as ‘Out at the Market’, highlighting diversity for city
The popular ‘Out on the Roof’ initiative, now in its fifth year and with a refreshed name ‘Out at the Market’, is a summer networking and fundraising event for diversity-conscious businesses celebrating the significant contribution the LGBT+ community makes to Northern Ireland economy and raising much-needed funds for two local charities who support the LGBT+ community in Northern Ireland.
The event has grown year on year and is sponsored by Allen & Overy, CME Group, Danske Bank, Pinsent Masons and Santander with further ‘Corporate Friend’ support from Barclays, Citi Group, Instil, MCS Group, Rapid7, Signifyd and Treliant.
‘Out on the Roof’ has raised £65K to support the work of LGBT+ projects since its launch in 2016. This year, two local charities, Mermaids NI and The Rainbow Project are set to receive £10,840 towards their work, as proceeds of ‘Out at the Market’ benefit both organisations in improving the lives of LGBT+ people in Northern Ireland.
Many Northern Ireland companies acknowledge that diversity and inclusion is a key components of their business offering and improve the attraction and retention of staff, with a diverse workforce helping to promote creativity, boost engagement and help foster stronger client relationships.
‘Out at the Market’ is an important occasion that encourages the business sector to help evolve a Northern Ireland that is both equal and inclusive.
The event was held at Common Market with guests including the Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Michelle Kelly and local MLAs and MPs. Attendees were treated to top-class entertainment, Absolut cocktails, canapés, and a raffle for a range of fantastic local prizes.
John O’Doherty, Director at The Rainbow Project says: “The Rainbow Project is delighted once again to be a beneficiary of Out at the Market and would like to thank the organisers, sponsors and everyone who attended. The funds raised through this event will help our organisation deliver front-line services to LGBT+ people across Northern Ireland – services that literally save lives. We would also like to thank these businesses for their commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. This commitment contributes to a happy and productive workforce and helps in attracting global talent to Northern Ireland as well as ensuring LGBTQIA+ people can bring their full selves to an open and inclusive workplace.
Nicola Doran, Director of Mermaids’ Northern Ireland Service, commented: “It is so amazing and affirming to be named by the wonderful partners of this fantastic event as a joint beneficiary again in 2022.
“We are living in a time when trans rights and lives are seen as fodder for discussion and debate, so now more than ever it is crucial that we are visible and vocal on behalf of trans, non-binary and gender diverse children and young people and their families living in Northern Ireland.
“Being included in this event sends a powerful message to trans, non-binary and gender diverse young people that they will be seen, heard, safe and supported in all areas of their lives – including at work.
The Rainbow Project works to improve the physical, mental & emotional health and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or transgender people in Northern Ireland. (www.rainbow-project.org)
Mermaids is a UK charity supporting trans, non-binary and gender diverse children and young people, their families, and the professionals involved in their care. We provide a number of support services, including a helpline, web chat, local groups, residential weekends and more. On 1 April 2022, Sail NI ceased delivery and began an exciting new project expanding Mermaids’ work in Northern Ireland. The new Mermaids Northern Ireland service has a growing staff team of locally based service providers. The team combines years of lived experience of Sail families with the expert knowledge and vibrant creativity of the existing Mermaids team, providing a robust and sustainable model of support, opportunities, fresh leadership, and positive change across the trans sector in Northern Ireland. For more information on what we do and how to get involved, please get in touch: info@mermaidsuk.org.uk.