Stonewall ranks us a top 50 employer for equality
This year we have been ranked the 44th best employer in the UK for lesbian, gay, bi and trans staff. And in the same ranking our LGBT staff network have been highly commended for the work that they do.
This is a fantastic result, not least because we have risen in the ranking from 278th in our last application. This illustrates the huge efforts made by staff and students in making our University a more inclusive workplace.
The Workplace Equality Index was compiled from submissions by 434 employers and examines criteria such as community engagement, allies and role models and employee policy.
We are committed to ensure our University is an inclusive, safe and welcoming environment, which embraces and respects the diversity of our staff and students. We have been a Stonewall Diversity Champion since 2013 and regularly participate in the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index. You can find more information about our work here.
Dr Kate Williams, Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Equality and Diversity, said: “It’s been fantastic to see the huge amount of activity on campus in the past year. From the full programmes in LGBT History month and Pride Week to our sports teams getting involved in positive campaigns such as the Be The Difference campaign. We are grateful to our exceptional LGBT+ staff and student forums who have great energy, enthusiasm and expertise. We look forward to continuing to work together in our ambition to be a truly inclusive place to work and study.”
A celebratory lunch will be hosted by Professor Paul Boyle on 7 February to coincide with the day that we receive our Stonewall feedback.
Professor Boyle said: “It is wonderful to be recognised for the hard work that has gone into supporting our LGBT staff and students. Our University culture is about respecting, valuing and celebrating the difference of all our employees and students. To have such a large rise in the rankings this year is testament to not only the work of our equality and diversity team, but also the individual work of those people on the ground, in the Students’ Union, and in our LGBT forum, who are continually pushing through new initiatives and events. I’m incredibly proud of everyone who made even the smallest contribution.”