There's more to Rach than the contact centre

Rach Smith Lending and wealth support specialist Rach Smith loves three things: Her family, helping customers and all things purple. She shares what the colour means to her, and why she’s proud to support Wear it Purple Day to support rainbow young people in the community.

I’ve never been made to feel bad about who I am, and I want to make sure no one else does either.

My love for purple started in my early teens, and it’s been my favourite colour ever since. Over the years it’s become an integral part of my life and my home. Every room has a splash - bedding, cushions, picture frames, chairs, rugs, the toaster and kettle, you name it. My 18 year old son says it looks like Barney the dinosaur has thrown up everywhere. Even the garden has lavender and purple daisies, and a purple gnome to look after them.

I started dying my hair purple a few years ago (I get my inspo from Kelly Osborne) and my wardrobe is unsurprisingly made up of various shades and patterns to match. It’s now got to the stage where I’ll get friends messaging me when they see something purple in a shop that they think I’d like. The quirkiest thing I have is a life-size cut out of Robbie Williams in a purple suit. Not many people can say that.

I’m conscious I don’t take it too far, although my husband might disagree. I like to think I’m a cool mum, so when it comes to birthdays and Christmas, I stay away from purple gifts for the kids. They should be free to discover their own colour.

People often ask, ‘why purple?’ I guess I find it soothing. It makes me feel happy and safe. That’s why I love Wear it Purple Day. Because it’s about making rainbow young people feel happy and safe to be themselves.

As a proud ally in ING’s Rainbow Lions Community I’ve always shown my support for the day by rocking up to work dressed head to toe in purple. I’ve even loaned colleagues purple clothes so they can do the same. This year is a bit harder as we’re celebrating virtually, but I’ll still be taking part at home, and sharing my photos on social media. It’s important to be visible to help raise awareness.

I’ve never been made to feel bad about who I am, and I want to make sure no one else does either. That’s how I’ve raised my kids, and that’s why I love working at ING. Because it’s a place where your whole self is welcome. I remember turning up to my interview with my bright purple hair, and it didn’t matter. That’s what I love - the inclusivity.

Everyone should feel respected, valued and included – no matter who they are. So I’d encourage you to do your bit and add a splash of my favourite colour on 28 August for Wear it Purple Day.

Together we can make the world a more inclusive place.

At ING your whole self is welcome, and that's a promise. In this series employees share their personal activities outside their ‘regular’ job, revealing there is more to each person than just what you see at the office.