It has been announced that the number 1 workplace in Wales for LGBTQ+ employees is the National Assembly for Wales which also retains its spot in UK Top 10 for the 6th year running.
Stonewall’s annual rankings for LGBTQ+ friendly workplaces was announced today, 30 January. The Assembly has retained the number 1 spot in Wales and has been ranked number 8 across the UK – remaining in the top 10 UK employers for the 6th year running.
The Stonewall Workplace Equality Index is a benchmark for employees to measure their progress on lesbian, gay, bi and trans inclusion in the workplace. Each year, the top 100 ranking employers across the UK is announced.
A record number of applications were received this year, with new names climbing up the rankings marking a positive change for LGBTQ+ employers across a variety of sector and workplaces across the UK.
Manon Antoniazzi, Chief Executive and Clerk of the National Assembly for Wales; “Our partnership with Stonewall is invaluable as we strive each year to nurture an inclusive and supportive workplace for LGBTQ+ colleagues.
“Each year, we are heartened to see new names included in the rankings; new employers from a variety of sectors who are committed to making a change for the wellbeing of their employees. I am in no doubt that Stonewall’s Index has played a huge role in inspiring more and more employers every year to address inclusivity. Our aim is that we can also encourage, support and inspire others, in Wales and beyond.”
Joyce Watson AM, Equalities Commissioner for the National Assembly for Wales; “It is an incredible honour to be recognised as the number one employer in Wales again this year, and to retain our place in the top 10 across the UK for the 6th year running. We celebrate with all the other employers on the list and let us continue to inspire and encourage each other to do better.
“Over the past few years, we have gained from Stonewall’s guidance in building an inclusive and supportive workplace for our LGBTQ+ colleagues. Whilst much has been achieved, we cannot be complacent, and the hard work continues.
The Assembly’s active LGBTQ+ employee network, OUT-NAW, has also been highly commended as part of Stonewall’s annual honours. The network members and allies work tirelessly to hold events, which offer social opportunities, as well as boosting understanding and support for colleagues across the workplace.
Throughout February, the network will deliver a host of internal events to mark LGBT History Month, and to mark the first day of commemorations, the Senedd will give a spectacular display in Cardiff Bay as the building is lit up in the colours of the rainbow flag.
Each year, the Assembly lends its support to numerous LGBTQ+ campaigns and remembrance events. From the celebratory PRIDE Cymru parade to the sombre lighting of a candle to mark Transgender Day of Remembrance, and debating the key issues relating to equality and inclusivity. As recognition of recent work, in October 2019, the National Assembly for Wales was recognised by the PINK News Awards as a leading example for LGBTQ+ workplace equality in the Public Sector.
Information about the National Assembly’s Diversity and Inclusion strategy, along with the latest news and achievement is available on the Assembly website.
