Getting to know GLAM
This Pride Month we wanted to introduce you to some of the names and faces behind our LGBT+ Colleagues and Allies network, GLAM.
24 June, 2021
GLAM was established in January 2019 with the overall aim of having a positive impact for LGBT+ colleagues in the workplace.
GLAM also works hard to raise awareness of issues faced by the LGBT+ community and to provide a social and supportive environment for colleagues to be themselves.
Anyone can join GLAM and contribute to its work. We recently caught up with three members to gain a better understanding of what GLAM means to them and why they feel it's important.
Cllr Owen Griffiths, LGBT Champion and Role Model
"You can’t underestimate how significant it was to launch GLAM in 2019 as an openly gay Councillor.
"At that launch, I spoke about the importance of having visible role models, and which is why I have always been proud to support GLAM, knowing the impact it has on LGBT+ colleagues and the wider LGBT+ community.
"Since 2019, GLAM has allowed LGBT+ colleagues to come together in a safe and supportive environment, whilst its support for Barry Pride, the first ever pride event in Barry, has shown to the community, the commitment of this Authority to promoting LGBT+ equality and inclusivity.
"It has been an honour and a pleasure to be the LGBT+ Champion and I will continue to support and champion GLAM.
"I would encourage all colleagues, LGBT+ or allies, to join and support GLAM too."
Chloe Jenkins, GLAM member
"I’ve been a member of GLAM since it started as I wanted to meet other LGBT+ colleagues and allies and to discuss the issues impacting LGBT+ groups.
"I had never really felt truly included within the mainstream LGBT+ community as, like many bisexuals, I didn’t feel like my identity counted. GLAM has helped me to feel that my identity is valid and that I’m part of a community.
"I’ve learnt a lot about LGBT+ history, the challenges which have been overcome, and ways to address the issues which persist. I hope that the GLAM network continues to strengthen and reaches more colleagues."
Delyth Miller, GLAM ally
"I believe my role as an LGBT+ ally is help others understand the importance of equality, fairness, acceptance and mutual respect. One of my personal values is that everyone should be able to express who they are and feel comfortable being their full self, especially in the workplace.
"Being a member of GLAM allows me to support my LGBT+ colleagues in having a voice. But, it also helps me learn more about the issues and challenges they face and what we need to do to help overcome them."
Matt Curtis, Chair
"I was involved in the development of GLAM because I felt it was important for LGBT+ colleagues and allies to come together in a safe and supportive environment.
"I have always been proud to work for the Vale of Glamorgan Council and have always felt supported as a member of the LGBT+ community. However, there are unique challenges faced by the LGBT+ community and GLAM plays an essential role in raising awareness of these challenges, increasing LGBT+ representation and providing peer-to-peer support.
"If you are an LGBT+ colleague, or are supportive of the LGBT+ community, please join us.
If you'd like to find out more about GLAM or become a member, please contact: