Stonewall publishes first trans-inclusive employers list

Stonewall has published its inaugural list of the most transgender inclusive employers in the UK with three law firms, three universities and a bank included among 10 trailblazers.

For the past two years, the LGBT rights charity has asked trans-inclusion questions in its Workplace Equality Index, which it uses to publish its annual Stonewall Top 100 Employers list.

The National Assembly for Wales was ranked first in the main Top 100 Employers list, as well as featuring in the list of 10 trans trailblazers.

Elin Jones, presiding officer of the National Assembly for Wales, said: “The National Assembly has diversity and inclusion at the very heart of its role representing the people of Wales.

“We are proud to support our LGBT staff network and continue to work to create an inclusive culture – not only for the people who work here but for the people we represent across all Wales’ diverse communities.”

Karin Cook, Lloyds Banking Group executive sponsor for sexual orientation and gender identity, said: “We are proud to be recognised by Stonewall as a leading transgender (trans*) inclusive employer.

“We work hard to ensure that our transgender and non-binary colleagues feel able to be themselves and reach their full potential, as well as striving to improve our services and interactions for our trans* customers.

“However, we do not want to stop here and recognise there is still more to do. That is why we are working in partnership with the trans* community to ensure we provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.”

Ruth Hunt, Stonewall chief Executive, said: “At a time when LGBT people are subject to profound discrimination and abuse, both in and out of the workplace, our LGBT-inclusive employers are a welcome beacon of hope that a positive future is possible.”

”The National Assembly for Wales is a trailblazer for equality, especially for trans equality, and we’d like other organisations to look at the straightforward, positive actions they have taken and follow the example they have set.”

Research published by Stonewall earlier this month revealed that 12% of trans employees have been physically attacked by a colleague or customer in the past year, and that half (51%) have hidden their identity at work for fear of discrimination.

Kate Fergusson, head of responsible business at Pinsent Masons, said: “We’re so proud to again be the top performing law firm and second overall in the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index.

“Inclusion and diversity truly are foundations of the way we do business – as we want to create a working environment where all our people feel confident and safe bringing their whole selves to work.”

She added: “With a new focus in the Index this year on trans equality in the workplace, we’re also delighted to be featured in the inaugural listings of Top Trans Employers.

“Over the last few years we’ve been working hard to make sure our firm promotes and encourages trans and non-binary gender equality, and have taken steps such as rolling out training for HR and front of house staff, introducing an option for employees and clients to use the gender-neutral Mx title, as well as setting up a working group to consider changes we can make to our facilities and work spaces to be more inclusive of all gender identities.

“It’s something that will continue to be a focus for our LGBT and Allies network throughout 2018.”

Trans* is an umbrella term sometimes used to describe transgender, transsexual, transvestite and other gender identities.