Barclays Games Frenzy 2025 Statement

Following Barclays recent changes to their treatment of trans women, Out Making Games have withdrawn our support from the Barclays Games Frenzy 2025 event, and will no longer be taking part as guest panellists.

With Ukie’s 2022 census finding 24% of the UK games industry identify as something other than heterosexual, and 4% have a gender is not the same as that assigned at birth, the importance of inclusion is particularly crucial in a business which supports the gaming community and runs gaming events which will naturally attract games professionals and players from all aspects of the community.

Inclusion and intersectionality have been key pillars of OMG’s work since our formation. We have worked with numerous corporations, studios, publishers and charities over the years, to successfully promote the importance of equality and fairness to any business. It’s what we, our partners, and our sponsors stand for. Whilst we are grateful for Barclay’s support of OMG in the past, this current action is a step backwards and OMG is, and will always be, supportive of the trans, non-binary, and gender diverse members of our community.

OMG are also aware there are many at Barclays who do not support these new rulings, but don’t feel they can speak out, for fear of risking their jobs. We can speak out, so we are. By doing so, we hope ourselves and others can help to provide a platform which will lead to a re-evaluation of Barclays new rules, and a return to inclusivity and kindness to all.

You can read more about Barclays new stance in this recent report in The Guardian.

We know we are not alone in withdrawing from the event. However, OMG are not calling for a boycott. Instead, we ask should you agree with our stance in supporting inclusivity, intersectionality and fairness for all, you like and share this statement and consider reaching out to Barclays yourselves.

OMG Leadership