Inspirational Diversity Champion of the Month – August 2015

Charlie Condou

On 12 August it is International Youth Day and with this in mind we have chosen Charlie Condou as our Inspirational Diversity Champion of the month.

Charlie is an actor and writer best known for playing Marcus Dent in Coronation Street. He is a supporter of Manchester Pride, a patron of the Albert Kennedy Trust, and a volunteer for the Terrence Higgins Trust. He also works closely with Stonewall.

We have chosen Charlie for his work with children and families. He is that he is a Patron of the organisation Diversity Role Models. This organisation actively seeks to prevent homophobic and transphobic bullying in UK schools. They stop bullying before it happens by educating young people about difference, challenging stereotypes and addressing the misuse of language. Their workshops feature positive LGBT or straight ally role models who speak directly to young people about their experiences. To date they have worked with over 80 schools and reached over 16,000 young people across the UK.

In 2013 Charlie set up the company Out with the Family, which organises events aimed at LGBT families and straight allies to aid networking of gay parents and children of same-sex parents. The aim is to create a safe and inclusive space where children of LGBT parents can play and engage with others in similar circumstances and not be the odd one out. Parents also have the opportunity to discuss issues in a safe and supportive environment.

To find out more about Out with the Family or Diversity Role Models see their websites at:

http://outwiththefamily.co.uk/
http://www.diversityrolemodels.org/

To keep up to date with what Charlie is doing follow him on twitter at: