MALE ALLIES

We should judge people on their contribution, not their characteristics. Everyone should feel valued, listened to, and safe at work. 

One of the best ways I can think of to be an ally to my female colleagues is to promote transparency and flexibility. Decisions on progression should be made in the open based on objective criteria, and we should publish our outcomes on equalities. 

At the same time, we must respect the many commitments that colleagues hold outside work and make it possible to succeed both inside and outside of work. 

I think we're good on gender equality in Kemnal and in the education sector, and I'm honoured to be called an ally for that work.

There is always more we can aspire to do, and hopefully we can be a role model for how the world should be for all women.

David Churchill, married with 3 older sisters, mother-in-law, 3 sisters-in-law, 4 nieces and 2 cousins

I was raised by a single mum who worked three jobs to support me and my siblings. Seeing her strength, resilience, and determination shaped my deep respect for the challenges many women face and the importance of strong support networks.

Because of that experience, I will always stand as an ally to initiatives that uplift and support women.

In my role as Deputy Director of People & Culture, I am committed to helping cultivate a positive, inclusive culture across Kemnal.

I’m proud to support the Women’s Support Network / EducateHER Community and the vital role it plays in creating space for connection, empowerment, and shared advocacy. You have my full support in maintaining and shaping the culture into a place where I would want my daughter to work.

As a husband and father to two grown daughters, I have witnessed both their positive and negative workplace experiences as women. Their experiences have shaped my commitment to promoting equality for women in the workplace and have deepened my understanding of the unique challenges they may face. 

I believe that an individual's work and contributions should be defined by their talent and merit, not by their gender. Support should be equitable, inclusive, and designed to foster aspiration. I want Kemnal to be an employer where I would want my wife and daughters to work and thrive. 

In my role as a Casework Investigator for the Kemnal Expert Services Team, I have gained direct experience in supporting female colleagues across the Trust. This position has also provided me with insights into how I can be an effective ally, ensuring that women at Kemnal benefit from a strong, supportive network that truly values their contributions and proactively addresses the unique challenges they may encounter. 

As a husband and father of two grown daughters, I made a conscious decision to reduce my working hours when my first daughter was born. This allowed my wife to continue her career, and without this support, she wouldn’t have progressed nearly as much. Today, she manages the entire learning function in a company with over 500 employees. 

I firmly believe that women’s ideas should always be heard and, more importantly, recognised and credited. It's essential to speak up against bias and exclusionary behavior, even when no women are present to witness it. 

Ultimately, it isn't about "saving" anyone; it’s about recognising talent, demanding fairness, and ensuring that the workplace is a level playing field where everyone's expertise can shine.