Leading the Way: How Get Out Champions Safety, Inclusivity, and Community
At Get Out, our mission has always been clear: to create a space where everyone can connect authentically, thrive, and feel safe being their true selves. Today, we are thrilled to announce a significant milestone in that journey — Get Out is officially SHANE Certified. 🌈
What Does SHANE Certification Mean?
Being SHANE Certified is more than just a badge; it symbolises commitment. It's about fostering safe, inclusive environments where the LGBTQIA+ community can thrive without fear or barriers. This certification places Get Out among a network of businesses and organisations working to make the world safer and more welcoming for all LGBTQIA+ people.
This recognition reinforces our core values and unwavering dedication to inclusivity. It signals to our members, partners, and the broader community that Get Out is not just a platform — it's a movement for change.
Why Safety Matters More Than Ever
Safety has never been a guarantee for LGBTQIA+ individuals, as recent reports highlight troubling statistics. According to LGBT HERO, 82% of queer people modify their behaviour in public spaces, like transport, to avoid abuse, and more than one in five have experienced hate crimes in the past year. In the workplace, the Trades Union Congress (TUC) found that over half of LGBTQIA+ employees reported bullying or harassment, with trans individuals facing even more alarming rates of discrimination.
These realities underscore why initiatives like SHANE Certification are essential. As the world grapples with rising divisiveness, including the backdrop of a new Trump presidency and global setbacks for LGBTQIA+ rights, safe spaces are no longer a luxury — they're a necessity.
The Role of Get Out
As SHANE Certified leaders, we recognise the immense responsibility that comes with this badge. Safety and inclusivity aren't just policies — they're woven into the fabric of what we do. Get Out aspires to bridge the gap between digital connection and real-world safety, creating an environment where LGBTQIA+ individuals can connect without fear of judgment or harm.
Get Out's events aim to bring people together in ways that foster belonging and joy. By focusing on shared passions, from sports to book clubs, we're redefining community-building and emphasising genuine connections over transactional interactions.
Taking Pride in Leadership
Across the globe, there are inspiring examples of leadership in this space. The Keighley Cougars Rugby Team in the UK exemplifies how inclusivity can be embraced at a community level. Their annual Pride-themed games and unwavering support for trans rights show how sport can unify and celebrate diversity.
Get Out draws inspiration from these leaders. Whether through collaboration with local organisations, advocating for inclusivity in sport (a space where LGBTQIA+ participation remains disproportionately low), or connecting members with safe spaces globally, we're committed to driving change.
A Call to Action
SHANE Certification is just the beginning. We invite our community to stand with us as we build a platform prioritising safety, connection, and authenticity. Together, we can push the boundaries of what inclusive spaces can achieve and ensure that LGBTQIA+ individuals feel supported, seen, and celebrated everywhere.
With Get Out, you're not just joining a platform; you're joining a movement to champion safe spaces, foster authentic connections, and build a future where everyone belongs.