Celebrating Pride: Jay's Story
With LGBTQ+ Pride Day coming up on Saturday 28th June, we sat down with Jay Ward, the Activities Coordinator at Abbeyfield House, New Malden. Jay shared his personal thoughts on what it means to be LGBTQ+, why diversity matters in the workplace, and how working for Abbeyfield has helped him truly be himself. His story powerfully illustrates the kind of supportive community we aim for at Abbeyfield House, New Malden, and all across Abbeyfield.
As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, what do Pride Month and Pride Day mean to you personally, and why do you think it's important to celebrate?
"Honestly, they don’t mean much to me because I live my identity all year round. I don't set aside just one month for it. What Pride can be used for, though, is a platform for real inclusivity, and that means including everyone."
How have you marked Pride Month at Abbeyfield House?
"We held an ‘Open Hearts, Open Mind’ event. Of course, we had all the Pride colours and rainbow flags on display, but we also put up (and still have) flags from 250 different countries around the home. It wasn't just about celebrating the LGBTQ+ community – it was an event to celebrate everyone and help everyone feel included."
How did the residents react?
"I think those who were able to really appreciated the idea behind it. I've had comments from a couple of them saying how great it was, how lovely it was, and how colourful it was."
And did the staff also feel involved and included?
"Absolutely! In our staff team alone, we have a mix of 15 different cultural backgrounds, and it was a good chance to recognise how beneficial diversity is.
For example, when you have a resident from another culture, how do you know how to support them? How do you know how to treat them with respect? You might not, but having such a mix of cultures in our home is incredibly helpful. Every member of staff is willing to learn how to care for each resident properly. Our cultural mix truly helps us provide the best care and respect."
"I gave it one more try and applied for the job at Abbeyfield. At the interview there was immediately a different vibe. I was able to be my loud and flamboyant self, and it’s one of the most inclusive companies I’ve ever worked for.
I don't think my personality has changed, but I’ve been able to express it more. I don’t have to dial it down or pretend to be anyone else."
How have your past experiences at work affected how you feel about your identity?
"I’ve had some very tough experiences in the past because I’m LGBTQ+. I've been fired, bullied, threatened, and even physically assaulted because of it. My mental health really suffered, to the point where I couldn’t leave my house. After my last job, I almost gave up completely and decided I would never work again."
"But I gave it one more try and applied for the job at Abbeyfield. From the interview on, there was a completely different feeling. I could just be my outgoing and authentic self, and it's honestly one of the most inclusive companies I've ever worked for."
Celebrating Pride Month: Embracing Diversity and Supporting LGBTQ+ Communities
Pride Month celebrates the LGBTQ+ community and their rights. Find essential support services for LGBTQ+ individuals over 50 in this blog.
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