Why I’m supporting Kacey De Groot
for Deputy General Secretary of the NEU…
A Proven Ally to Black Members, Kacey de Groot has consistently and actively supported Black members throughout her time in the NEU. She hasn’t just offered words - she’s taken action, listened to us, and stood by us when it mattered.
Kacey has regularly raised the voices and concerns of Black educators in union: spaces addressing racism in schools, pay disparities, and barriers to promotion and leadership. She supported and seconded motions from Black Members: When motions and concerns from Black members were brought to the NEU Executive, Kacey didn’t stay silent. She actively seconded those motions and spoke in favour of them to ensure they were heard and supported. She pushed for More Representation in Leadership: Kacey has championed the need for greater Black representation at every level - from schools to district roles to national leadership. She believes Black educators must be seen and supported in leadership, not just talked about...
Kacey advocated for More Black Members at Key Conferences: She supported increasing the number of Black members attending the NEU LGBT+ Conference and the Equalities Conference, understanding how essential those spaces are for visibility, leadership development, and collective organising. Kacey ensured safe spaces for Black LGBT+ members at both NEU and TUC LGBT+ events. She understands the unique challenges Black LGBT+ educators face and has made sure our voices are protected and uplifted. Kacey has called for increased funding for Black member organising and more legal and structural support for members facing race discrimination in the workplace. Kacey doesn’t just speak about equality - she acts on it. She understands intersectionality and makes sure no one is left behind. I’ve seen firsthand how she listens to and supports Black members with care, strength, and consistency. That’s why I’m voting for Kacey de Groot and why I encourage every Black member to do the same. She is a trusted ally and a proven advocate who will continue to fight for all of us.
Den Henry (she/her)
Executive Member for Black Educators
More endorsements from other NEU members…
-
“It’s crucial we have a diverse executive with people who have experience of both life issues and know how to get things done in the bureaucracy of the Union. Kacey has both. As an out and proud trans member she has made it clear what the Union needs to do to support and campaign for LGBT+ issues. There is much work to be done and to have someone who is familiar with the complex processes to achieve this is vital. I am confident that Kacey is a listener and will amalgamate new ideas wither own to ensure the union is a leader in supporting and campaigning for LGBT+ rights.”
Sue Sanders, Founder of LGBT+ History Month, Chair of Schools Out, Professor Emeritus Harvey Milk Institute
-
“Kacey is a committed educator and exceptional advocate for all members of the NEU. She has fostered and grown positive connections between intersectional networks and provided a platform for voices who often go unheard. Kacey is authentic, dedicated and optimistic in her work within the NEU at grassroots level and on the executive and through her work in the TUC. She is the voice we currently need within the NEU and I’m proud to support Kacey De Groot"
Ben Dolata (they/them)
Head of Year & Drama Teacher, LGBT+ Organising Forum Rep, LGBT+ Rep for Bury & Workplace Rep
-
I could not be more proud to support Kacey's campaign or more convinced that she is the right candidate for Deputy General Se rotary of the National Education Union. Kacey is there for everyone - every single member of the union is equally important to her and she has a long history of demonstrating that support with boots on the ground and an incredible poise and clarity with which she argues for members' rights. She champions and defends support staff, and stands up for equality and equity for all members. She has transformed the LGBT+ section in her time as LGBT+ Executive Member but she has by no means focussed her efforts in just one area - she is there for every part of union work at every campaign and standing in solidarity on picket lines. On a personal level, she has inspired me to be the activist I am today. I am proud to not only call her a colleague and comrade but also a friend. Her heart is huge and her dedication to the union is unparalleled, even when that is difficult. She is never afraid to speak truth to power or hold those in power to account. She will make the union more inclusive, fairer and braver. We are told so often that this is a lay-led union and Kacey is the one who will ensure that this is a members-FIRST union. There is no-one I would rather have leading us as she will ALWAYS lead alongside us and never forget to listen to, hear and champion the voices of members. Kacey is what this union needs.
Grey Roberts (they/them)
LGBT+ Organising Forum Rep for Yorkshire and the Humber
Trustee of TNB Education
SEND Teacher
-
"I am proud to support Kacey de Groot for Deputy General Secretary of the NEU. Kacey is a principled and compassionate leader with a longstanding track record of fighting for equity and justice for all members, especially those from marginalised and underrepresented communities. As a trans woman and activist, she brings lived experience, strength, and a deep understanding to the fight for equality and justice in our union and beyond. Kacey always ensures that those most often marginalised in education are seen, heard, valued, and defended, particularly through the development of intersectional groups. She has been instrumental in shaping NEU policy around equalities and pushing the union to be bolder and more inclusive when developing resources to support members. Whether challenging systemic discrimination, building inclusive structures within the union, or advocating for stronger protections for staff and students alike, Kacey has proven herself as someone who leads with both heart and skill. Kacey is a powerful, principled person who communicates clearly, confidently, and with real compassion. She listens with empathy, speaks with clarity, and acts with integrity. She is unwavering in her values and stands firm in the face of pressure by always putting justice and solidarity before convenience or popularity. Whether it’s challenging inequality, amplifying grassroots voices, or holding leadership to account. This year, we saw Kacey’s fearless leadership on display when she spoke at the national conference; she is a true tour de force. Her commitment to a stronger, fairer, and more inclusive member led union is clear, and I believe she is exactly the kind of leader we need as Deputy General Secretary. Kacey doesn’t just talk about change; she makes it happen. Kacey has always inspired me to be better, do more, and think bigger. She has empowered my NEU activism, has always supported me, and has helped build my skillset through our work together on the LGBT+ Organising Forum. I am proud to call Kacey a friend; someone whose courage, integrity, and empathy I sincerely admire. The same qualities that make her a brilliant friend make her a fearless, principled leader. She will work well with Daniel to lead our union with transparency, compassion, and strength but also challenge decisions to ensure we continue to be member led. Kacey is an unstoppable force for justice and exactly the leader we need to move the NEU forwards, for these reasons I offer my full support".
Lee Whitham (he/him)
LGBT+ Organising Forum Yorkshire & Humber Region
-
"I have worked alongside Kacey on national LGBT+ issues for three years and have always felt safe and supported when talking to her. She has helped me to engage in new experiences in both my professional and personal life and has assisted me in becoming my authentic self today. I know that Kacey will bring her fire and passion for education and equality to the role of DGS and will continue to fight for the rights of all members on this larger national stage. Good luck Kacey! I believe in you!"
Sam Lewin (he/him)
SEND teacher
District Secretary, Equality Officer, LGBT+ Officer, Primary Officer and Alternative Provision Officer for Somerset, Regional Council Representative for the South West
South West member of the National LGBT+ Organising Forum, Vice-Chair of the NEU Aro/Ace Spectrum Network
-
"I’m proud to endorse Kacey De Groot for Deputy General Secretary of the NEU. Kacey is a principled, inspiring colleague who leads with integrity, energy, and care. She has a proven record of building engagement, standing up for staff, and championing equality and representation across the profession. Her passion for education and her fearless commitment to accountability and transparency make her the strong voice we need. I believe Kacey will fight tirelessly for both staff and students, ensuring a fairer, more inclusive education system"
Jen McCallum (she/her)
Bolton, School Rep & District Women's Officer
-
I’m backing Kacey De Groot for NEU Deputy General Secretary because I’ve seen first-hand the difference she makes. As Executive Seat Holder for LGBT+ members (2020–2025), Kacey has been a visible, vocal, and tireless advocate for equality and justice across our union. But more than that — she’s someone who genuinely listens, takes people with her, and puts members at the heart of everything she does. What stands out about Kacey is her integrity. She shows up — whether it’s on picket lines, in member meetings, or national campaigns — and she leads with compassion, courage, and clarity. She understands the classroom, she understands the union, and she understands what real solidarity looks like. Kacey doesn’t shy away from difficult conversations. She’s pushed the NEU to be more inclusive, more accountable, and more ambitious. Her work has had real impact — not just for LGBT+ members, but for all of us who believe in a union that reflects the diversity and strength of its members. She’s exactly the kind of Deputy General Secretary we need: principled, progressive, and driven by the belief that we’re stronger together.
Amy Laidler (she/her)
LGBT+ Organising Forum Northern Region
Teacher of Science
-
Kacey isn’t factional and always ensures she stands up for everyone and is mindful of inclusivity, ensuring members can fully access the union.
Amy Clarke (she/her)
Women’s Officer for Norfolk
Women’s OF member for Eastern
SEND Teacher
-
I proudly endorse Kacey for Deputy General Secretary of the NEU. As a dedicated educator with rich lived experience, she brings courage, vision, and a deep commitment to fairness and inclusion. Kacey has proven herself a strong leader who listens, advocates, and acts for staff and students alike. She embodies the values of solidarity, equality, and justice that define our union. Kacey is the leader we need to face today’s challenges, and I urge colleagues to support her.
Louise (she/her)
Project Manager
Rise Multi Academy Trust
-
I recently met Kacey and saw her speak at a local NEU LGBTQ+ conference. She was a powerful speaker with a direct, honest and open way of speaking. She was also incredibly warm and welcoming, and was able to build strength through community by working with the room. It was a pleasure to meet Kacey and I feel as if her message is more important now than ever, and she would be an excellent fit for DGS.
James Gearing
Assistant headteacher in an SEN school
-
I have got to know Kacey through the LGBT+ Organising Forum and as a member of the NEU delegation to the TUC LGBT+ Conference. Kacey's kindness and encouragement have played a vital role in my developing activism and knowledge of what I can achieve. She always speaks out for what she thinks is right, and does so with great humour and sincerity. Her dynamism never fails to engage her audience. Under her, the number of active LGBT+ members has increased substantially because she has the ability to make each of us feel valued and have a voice to be heard. I am supporting Kacey to be the next Deputy General Secretary of the NEU as I want all members to experience her care, support and activism.
Graham Ward-Tipping (he/him)
Workplace rep, Equalities Officer for Nottinghamshire NEU
East Midlands LGBT+ Organising Forum rep
Teacher of mathematics
-
I believe Kacey has the experience, tenacity and perseverance needed for the role of Assistant General Secretary. Kacey has proven many times she will always speak up for what she believes is right and will always challenge practices that are damaging to members and to the progress of our Union. Kacey is unafraid to stand staunchly behind her beliefs and lead members with integrity and by example; she is an inspiring speaker and has a proven track record of developing activists, increasing member engagement and organising and fighting injustice wherever she finds it.
Rosie Kelly-Smith (she/her)
Workplace Rep
Assistant Branch Secretary and Women's Officer, Sutton NEU
Women's Organising Forum member for London
-
I’ve had the privilege of working with Kacey both locally and nationally. She works tirelessly to promote and fight for equality, inclusion and social justice. Her passion for education and leadership skills make her the ideal candidate. I wholeheartedly support Kacey for the role of DGS.
Nicky Downes (she/her)
Former national Executive member. Joint District and Branch Secretary Coventry NEU
-
There are 2 reasons to vote for Kacey De Groot for Deputy General Secretary of the NEU: a) She has demonstrated through her work with the Union that she is a collaborator, a communicator and a leader, as well as being a great organiser. She can hold her own in multiple role and so has evidences good admin skills. That's what we need in a DGS and I have no doubt she will be awesome in the role. b) She is TNB at a time when that is a reason to be afraid. Her bravery in wanting to be in this position, and the visibility that will bring, tells me she has the courage of her convictions, strong values and I think those are qualities we need in the NEU management.
Debi Saunders (she/her)
LGBT+ Co-Officer and Post-16 Officer for City of York NEU
LGBT + Organising Forum rep for Yorkshire & Humber NEU
Chair of Trustees for GeneraTe
Quality Manager in FE after 36 years teaching
-
Kacey has always supported supply members in council and has been a good friend to all members of the NEU in Wales. Kacey stands for members regardless of if they identify as LGBT+ or not.
Steve Mitchell (he/him)
Supply officer for Newport and organising forum member for Wales
-
On a low day, she is fiercer than most people on a high day. Kacey stands up for equality for all underrepresented, marginalised groups. She is a true force for positive change.
Chey Astolfi (they/them)
Teacher of Physics
-
Kacey is an incredible person she stands up for for what is right and encourages others to do the same. She has met me once and in that time she has made a massive difference by helping to get more involved in the union! I think she should be DGS because the union needs her to be she has shown time and time again that she has the best interest of the members of the union at heart ❤️.
Eddy (they/she)
I am district vice president of Somerset, Im also joint equalities and LGBT officer as well as communication secretary, support staff and NPYW officer. Im also on regional council and the national Trans, non binary committee.
-
Kacey is the first person to make me feel seen and welcome in the NEU. Since our first brief meeting, she has stood out as a person who cares deeply about the well being of all, and who will follow up her caring with action which will lead to actual positive change in the NEU. She isn't afraid to speak truth to power and is able to accept criticism and understand what changes must be made in order to better serve the needs of members. Her heart and actions are rooted in the liberation of all, and in improving education for students and for educators. She is willing to put in the work needed to make change. She's dedicated and capable, and has what it takes to be the general secretary we all need. Please vote for Kacey. I know I will.
Hollyer Somerly (she/they)
NEU NW Regional Lead Rep for Oasis Academies, Oldham Disabled Members Officer, OAL Equalities Workplace Rep, Secondary Science Teacher
-
I wholeheartedly endorse Kasey for the position of Deputy General Secretary. Kasey's roots are as a strong trade unionist who works for the rights of ALL and champions those who face discrimination of any kind. A strong activist, she is able to galvanise members and lead them. Kasey has shown true integrity and leadership time after time in her role as LGBT executive, but she is so much more than this. During her time on the National Executive, Kasey consistently backed support staff issues - another marginalised sector of our union - when others were not. As a support staff member we need a DGS who will fight to improve our recognition and raise our profile within the union, and I believe that Kasey is the person to do it.
Rachel Ferraby (she/her)
Assistant Secretary and Support Staff Officer,
Leeds NEU
Support Staff National Executive
-
New List ItemI’m extremely happy to endorse Kacey, not only because she has a proven record of serious work for the peoples of this diverse Union, but also simply for who she is. Kacey is a compassionate, understanding, caring, welcoming, diligent, reliable, courteous and brave woman. I can’t see myself not supporting her simply because she is the best example of a leader I trust, understand and feel safe with my union’s future. From standing up alongside the OTTs, to fighting for inclusion and diversity in the workplace and union, to counseling my rage down —I see a true mother-like figure in Kacey. You go girl! Keep shining bright like a diamond! 💎
Taf Williams (he/him)
Black Officer West Kent District
-
I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Kacey de Groot on the NEU Executive for the last 4 years. She has been consistently strong on equality, quick to pick up key details, and unafraid to challenge where needed for the good of members. Kacey is also deeply grounded in the workplace, working closely with members and ensuring their voices shape our union. Her commitment to democracy, accountability, and member-led decision making is second to none. She has been an inspiration to work with, and I’m proud to endorse her for DGS.
Louise Lewis
NEU National Executive Member
Secondary School Teacher
-
Kacey has been a fantastic advocate for the trans and non-binary community within the NEU. She is able to speak truth to power and to stand up for marginalised voices against those who would try to erase us. With the government siding with the far right in their attempts to eradicate and erase trans identities, I can think of nobody better than Kacey to fight for the NEU's commitment to equality and justice for all. Kacey is a committed and experienced trade unionist who will fight for all members to ensure that the NEU is a truly member-led union.
Matthew Axbey (they/them)
NEU Kingston upon Thames District Secretary
NEU Trans & Non-Binary Network Co-Chair
TNB Education Trustee
-
Every interaction I have had with Kacey has highlighted her principled, compassionate, driven approach to union activism. She listens to members, and advocates wholeheartedly and fearlessly for them. Building union membership and engagement is vital for any union's success. Kacey's work in building membership, along with encouraging LGBT+ members to become involved in union activism has been hugely impactful in increasing representation of LGBT+ voices within our union. This is not only a win for LGBT+ educators, though: at the 2025 conference, we saw a number of LGBT+ OF members speaking passionately on motions on a breadth of issues affecting all members. We need a deputy general exec who is committed to building our union membership, and developing passionate, engaged activists. I can't think of anyone more up to the job than Kacey.
Grace Saunders (she/her)
LGBT+ and Young/New Teachers officer, Sutton
-
Kacey is a fantastic candidate for the Deputy General secretary. She understands the need to fight for equality for all. She has demonstrated a passion and dedication to fight for the equality of every union member. Whenever I have met her the energy for empowering members to take action is inspiring.
Stuart Hutchinson (He/Him)
Inclusion Lead/Autism Instructor
LGBT Officer South Derbyshire
-
Kacey as a drama teacher,lesbian and trans parent has done so much in the union to challenge patriarchy, misogyny, racism and ableism. The union needs a strong grass root voice to champion minority voices and an inclusive curriculum at time when both inclusively and art are under threat.
Sue Sanders (she/her)
Retired NEU Member
-
Kacey has demonstrated to me an incredible ability to advocate for members. To listen to marginalised workers and be unafraid to evolve in perspective on the basis of other members lived experience. Kacey had demonstrated solidarity with me and backed me when fighting for conference policy on support staff at the exec. Kacey’s commitment to advocating for marginised workers and equalities is second to none and clearly proven time & time again. I believe Kacey will listen and advocate well for all members in our union. It is my privilege to endorse Kacey for Deputy General Secretary of NEU.
Michaela Wilde (she/her)
National executive member
Bristol district secretary
CLF MAT branch secretary
Pastoral support worker in Bristol
-
Kacey is a shining example of what an educator in a union should be and this is why she would make a fantastic DGS. I'm really lucky that Kacey has been the LGBT+ executive officer as I've been developing my role within the union as she has been a real role model. She listens to the voices around her and uplifts them. One of my first union events was an trans and Non-binary educators event and Kacey, an executive officer, sat with me, a basic member, and talked me through my concerns about how to handle someone I wasn't sure was an ally. As it turned out, I was worrying about nothing but I felt heard and seen in a way that really emphasised the 'lay led' element of the union. She felt like a normal member with more experience who I could approach for advice and I have done several times since. She was very supportive during the sixth form strike action too which I appreciated as often we felt alone in the cold (literally). I'm lucky enough to have amazing role models around me in the union, but Kacey always speaks so clearly and so well and is so considerate of actually weighing up pros and cons. It means even if I disagree with her I know that she has considered her opinions. This authenticity is something that is important for a DGS as members need to know that what they're representing is felt from the heart and with Kacey I do always believe it is. I fully support Kacey and am proud to endorse her.
Thyme Chapman (they/them)
West Hampshire District Disability Officer
LGBT+ Workplace Officer
Sixth Form College Criminology teacher
-
I am voting for Kacey for her unwavering commitment to union democracy and accountability. We need a union that is not the preserve of one faction.
Duncan Morrison (he/him)
District Secretary, Isle of Wight NEU