Creating inclusive spaces: Muckle hosts Proud Allies training event
We were thrilled to host the latest North East People and Skills Network event on Thursday, 16 October 2025.
Together with the CBI, we held a Northern Pride Proud Allies Training session for the HR Directors in our regional network, welcoming Curious Arts and the Northern Pride team to guide us through this vital conversation about creating inclusive spaces.
Championing equality, diversity and inclusion
October marks LGBTQ+ History Month, an important month for LGBTQ+ awareness days. As a firm, promoting equality, diversity and inclusion has always been our priority and remains a key focus of our firmwide strategy.
We’re committed to creating an environment that is free from bullying, harassment, discrimination or victimisation, one where our people can thrive at work. Whether through our newly launched social mobility strategy or the development of our sexual harassment risk assessment in collaboration with our full workforce, we've never lost sight of our dedication to building an inclusive workplace. However, we know there is still more to be done.
During this significant time, we chose to invest in educating ourselves on how to improve our impact and share this knowledge with others across the region.
Breaking down barriers
The engaging, interactive session aimed to increase awareness and understanding of intersectional communities, culture and experiences, as well as building confidence in creating safe, inclusive and welcoming environments for LGBTQ+ people.
Following a powerful introduction from CBI North East Director, Matt Bratton and Muckle’s Director of HR, Nicola Leyden, the Proud Allies team provided shared best practices and valuable resources that could be shared across attendees' organisations.
Uniting a range of professionals, the training session provided an opportunity to share ideas and engage in an open discussion about the barriers to creating inclusive environments where LGBTQ+ people can thrive.
Nicola Leyden, HR manager at Muckle LLP, said: “It was fantastic to host this valuable training session in partnership with CBI. As a firm, we’re committed to breaking down barriers, ensuring that our work environment is one that supports the safety, happiness and wellbeing of our people.
"We’re always looking to build upon our current efforts, and this session provided the opportunity to connect with and learn from others around the region on what we can do better or more of, supporting us to create the best possible working environment for all our people, no matter their role, background or circumstances."