Accelerating action for International Women’s Day

Our series celebrates the journeys of eight women from across Hampshire Trust Bank, each at a unique stage in their career.

Why is #AccelerateAction important? 

According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2024, it will take 134 years to achieve global gender parity at the current rate of progress. That’s five generations – a reality that highlights the importance of this year’s theme, #AccelerateAction.

Launched on LinkedIn, our video series covers key topics, from building strong relationships, wellbeing and support, taking a stand and mentorship — each playing a crucial role in this agenda.

 

Accelerating action through strong relationships 

Featuring: Alex Upton, Managing Director, Specialist Mortgages & Bridging, and Andrea Glasgow, Sales Director, Specialist Mortgages & Bridging.

Alex and Andrea discuss the importance of strong relationships, sharing insights from their 10-year professional relationship. They highlight the significance of networking, supporting colleagues, and building trust. However, many women find it challenging to build these relationships; in fact, 25% of women feel uncomfortable sharing their opinions at work.

Accelerating action through taking a stand

Featuring: Kathryn Winup, Chief Financial Officer, and Natalie Harmony, Programme Manager, Business Transformation.

Kathryn and Natalie share their personal experiences and insights on taking a stand, both inside and outside the workplace. Research shows that men interrupt women 33% more often than interrupting other men in a professional setting, further highlighting the need for women to take a stand, and for allies to support this.

Accelerating action through wellbeing and support

Featuring: Denise Carolan, Head of Organisational Development, and Erica Dennehy, Facilities Lead.

Denise and Erica discuss normalising ‘taboo’ topics, supporting women’s health, and educating colleagues to foster open conversations. More than 40% of women experiencing symptoms related to menstruation or menopause work through the pain without taking time off, emphasising the importance of addressing these issues openly and enabling women to feel comfortable when discussing these subjects.

Accelerating action through mentorship

Featuring: Surbjit Juttla, Head of Testing, and Laila Perryman, Lending Manager

Surbjit shares her insights on the importance of mentorship and what it means to her, while Laila reflects on the impact of mentorship in the early stages of her career. According to a survey by LinkedIn, 1 out of 5 women say they’ve never had a mentor at work. Additionally, 63% of women have never had a formal mentor, highlighting the critical need for mentorship programmes to support women’s career development.

 

At Hampshire Trust Bank, we’ll continue to support female colleagues, driving change to tackle the barriers and biases they face, both at work and in their personal lives.

Let’s continue to #AccelerateAction and make a difference every day, not just in March.