Allyship Actually (Paperback)

Creating truly inclusive workplaces requires more than policies, statements and good intentions ― it demands action, awareness and shared responsibility. Allyship Actually: Why It’s ‘We’ and Not ‘Me’ blends storytelling with practical insight, encouraging readers to reflect on their own behaviours and assumptions, offering a relatable and thought-provoking guide to becoming a more effective ally.

It’s a powerful, story-driven exploration of inclusion, workplace culture and the role we all play in creating equitable environments. Drawing on real-life experiences, the book follows professionals across multiple industries as they navigate male-dominated and discriminatory workplaces, confronting the everyday realities of bias, exclusion, and inequality.

Through the journeys of its central characters, the narrative highlights how meaningful allyship goes beyond good intentions ― it requires action, awareness and a willingness to challenge entrenched behaviours and systems. As relationships develop and perspectives shift, the book demonstrates how individuals can support one another to drive both personal growth and organisational change.

Following the journeys of professionals navigating complex, often male-dominated environments, the book uncovers the subtle and overt challenges individuals face ― from unconscious bias and unequal opportunities to the impact of workplace behaviours on confidence, progression and performance. Through these experiences, it reveals what allyship really looks like in practice ― and why it is critical to building stronger, more effective organisations.

Rather than presenting allyship as a theoretical concept, this book demonstrates how it is lived day to day. It shows how individuals at all levels ― from peers and managers to senior leaders ― can actively support others, challenge inappropriate behaviours and contribute to a culture where people feel valued, heard and empowered to succeed.

Blending engaging storytelling with practical insight, Allyship Actually encourages readers to reflect on their own behaviours and assumptions, offering clear, relatable examples of how small, consistent actions can drive meaningful change. It also highlights the wider organisational benefits of inclusive cultures, including improved collaboration, better decision-making, stronger performance and enhanced employee wellbeing.

Ideal for professionals, leaders, HR practitioners and anyone committed to fostering equality and inclusion, this book provides both inspiration and guidance. It reinforces a simple but powerful message: lasting progress happens when we move beyond individual intent and work collectively ― because real allyship is not about “me”, but “we”.

“An incredibly powerful book!” - Sophie Hussey, director at Lapis Consulting Services Ltd.

David Barrow

With over 30 years in IT service roles, David transitioned from small businesses to become a respected management consultant for global organisations.  

David chairs the British Standards Institute’s IT Service Management committee, developing global standards.  He also contributes to the British Computer Society’s ITSM and ITAM committees.  David is dedicated to advancing Service Management education through his work with the British Standards Institute.  

Recently, his focus has broadened to physical health and mental well-being with his “OH SH!T, I’ve got Bowel Cancer” book series.  Passionate about equal opportunities, David mentors for various organisations, co-creates communities and uses his expertise to support and guide future professionals in the technology sector.

Lucy Hornsby

With a background in IT, Lucy now leans into the future of work, positioning herself with a diverse portfolio career across business, branding, change and comms. She combines strategic acumen with creative vision and enables businesses and individuals to achieve impactful and lasting connections. Lucy is a qualified coach and mentor, and an experienced trainer, providing guidance and skills for individuals and teams. She classes herself as a modern-day feminist who is passionate about doing the right thing by and for all women. Lucy’s purpose in life is to empower people to reimagine what can be possible.