Halifax has told customers they can ‘close their account’ if they disagree with its new policy on gender pronouns.
The banking group shared a picture of a staff member’s name badge over social media which contained the pronouns “she/her/hers”.
Bosses said that workers optionally include their pronouns in a bid to create a ‘safe and accepting environment’ for employees and customers.
It has also described the move as being a “very simple solution to accidental misgendering”.
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News of the policy came during the final week of Pride Month.
However, some customers threatened to close their account over the policy.
In a response to one angry customer, Halifax wrote: “We strive for inclusion, equality and quite simply, in doing what is right.
“If you disagree with our values, you’re welcome to close your account.”
The bank then shared details on how customers can submit forms to close down in their account in additional responses to account holders.
Fellow bank HSBC tweeted in support of Halifax’s decision amid the backlash.
The firm wrote: “We stand with and support any bank or organisation that joins us in taking this positive step forward for equality and inclusion.
“It’s vital that everyone can be themselves in the workplace.”
A number of LGBTQ+ charities have encouraged people to state their pronouns in email signatures and social media profiles to prevent misgendering.
The Scottish Trans Alliance also suggests asking to people to add their pronouns next to their name when taking part in an online work meeting.
They add: “If you accidentally use the wrong pronoun, just apologise once and continue with the conversation.
“You don’t need to apologise profusely or try to explain why it happened - this often only causes more awkwardness.
“Take extra care not repeat the mistake.”
Halifax follows the likes of the BBC and the British Library in encouraging staff to state their pronouns.
TUI and Transport for London have also dropped the term ‘ladies and gentlemen’ recently to make the environment more inclusive. The move by TfL was welcomed by LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall.
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