Branded rainbow lanyards being used to promote LGBT awareness in the UK workplace

Branded rainbow lanyards have become visible shorthand for inclusion in the UK and support for the LGBT community has never been greater. Custom lanyards are easy to implement, immediately recognisable, and suitable for almost any workplace or event where staff wear ID. When thoughtfully delivered, they do more than hold a badge; they help signal safety, allyship and a culture where everyone is respected.

We also explain how organisations use branded rainbow (and Progress Pride) lanyards, how to choose the right design and fittings, and how to roll them out in a way that is authentic, compliant and good value for money. We also touch on NHS Identity rules for teams purchasing official NHS‑branded items.

You can also purchase the multi-coloured lanyards online. Why not show your support and join in the fun? Just send a donation of £2 to the Equality Network or visit the Scarf website for further information.

Why rainbow lanyards work (and when they don’t)

A lanyard is a tiny billboard that moves with the wearer. In busy environments such as receptions, campuses, healthcare settings and festivals, this small, repeated visual makes a difference. People who need reassurance clock it in a second. Colleagues who want to show support can do so without a lengthy policy lecture. And for brand teams, the lanyard becomes a tidy way to reflect values alongside the practical business of ID.

They fail when they’re handed out without context. If staff don’t know what the colours represent, or feel pressured to wear one, the effect is diluted. Treat the lanyard as a chapter in a bigger inclusion story, not the whole book. Provide a short explainer, make participation voluntary, and pair the rollout with visible policies and behaviours that back up the message.

Both non-branded and branded rainbow lanyards are worn in workplaces in support of the LGBT community.

Case study: Scarf (Aberdeen)

Scarf, an award‑winning social enterprise in Aberdeen, introduced multi‑coloured lanyards as part of a campaign to promote LGBTQ+ awareness at work. Participation was optional, yet take‑up was strong—many staff were keen to display visible support.

Scarf have recently introduced the multi-coloured lanyards into the UK workplace as part of a campaign to promote LGBT awareness.

Thane Lawrie, Scarf chief executive was quoted as saying—

“I hope seeing our staff wearing these lanyards will highlight Scarf as a place free of discrimination.” —Thane Lawrie | Scarf

Most notably, Scarf has reached the Sunday Times Top 100 list of ‘not-for-profit’ companies to work for for 5 years running. This has much to do with its workplace culture, core values and overall integrity. The lanyards complemented that culture: a simple change that travelled through the building and into community perception. Because staff could opt in, the symbol remained positive and credible.

On this subject Thane Lawrie says—

“We want everyone who walks through our door to feel they are in a safe space regardless of their ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, financial situation, religion etc. and that everyone feels free to be themselves. I hope that seeing our staff wearing these lanyards will highlight Scarf as a place free of discrimination” —Thane Lawrie | Scarf

As a result of the personalised lanyards campaign, Scarf and LGBT awareness is enjoying UK national exposure way beyond the Scottish borders. This we’re guessing is exactly what they’re after which would make it a pretty successful awareness campaign.

Branded rainbow lanyards also being used in the NHS.

The use of buying multi-coloured lanyards in bulk has become infectious. As a result, many hospitals in the NHS are now adopting them. One instance is staff and volunteers at Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust are using them as an indicator. Wearing the branded lanyards shows that they are a ‘safe listening ear’ for anyone with LGBTQ+ concerns.

If you’re buying for an NHS Trust or practice, there are two separate questions:

1. What message do you want to convey? Rainbow or Progress Pride can be used for inclusion signalling.
2. Do you need the NHS logo or identity elements? NHS logos and colours are protected. Official NHS‑branded products can only be produced for authorised NHS bodies following NHS Identity guidance. We’re happy to advise and supply accordingly.

Branded rainbow lanyards and badges are routinely being purchased in bulk by the NHS

Olivia King who is the Equality Advisor for BSUH has said—

“Although subtle, the rainbow pins and lanyards represent a determination across our Trust to raise the standards of understanding and inclusion for LGBTQ+ people, whether as colleagues or patients”

Most Trusts that issue lanyards specify safety breakaway attachments, sometimes double or triple, and include basic infection‑control rules (replace if soiled or damaged, avoid clutter that impedes cleaning). Many also make clear that wearing an inclusion lanyard is voluntary. For avoidance of doubt, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard is a separate initiative and shouldn’t be conflated with rainbow or Progress Pride items.

Funding for the NHS branded rainbow lanyards is being supported by UK workers union Unite and the Royal College of Nursing. More instances of their bulk use are springing up every day across the UK. All of this has to be hugely positive for society as a whole. Amazing what a humble lanyard and good intentions can achieve.

Shop for lanyards

Getting branded rainbow lanyards custom printed and personalised

Most notably, the rainbow coloured pattern on the branded lanyards cord is only the beginning. There are still a myriad of ways to get them personalised. All lanyards can be full-colour custom printed on both with additional text or logos running down the lanyard. Consequently, they can be fully customised for your business or marketing campaign.

Further personalisation is possible with rainbow breakaway lanyards. This ensures that the id badges or attachments worn by your staff will breakaway from the lanyard if they ever get trapped. Additionally you can keep the costs down buy buying them wholesale in bulk.

Branded rainbow lanyards are an ideal way of showing your business is inline with a modern LGBT tolerant society. Not only that, making this little effort may also result in local or national exposure. You may even find your staff will wear them with pride.

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