LSE staff celebrate Pride Nigel Stead
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) has been recognised in Stonewall’s Top 100 Employers list, highlighting it as one of the best employers for lesbian, gay, bi and trans staff.
The top 100 list is compiled from submissions to Stonewall’s Workplace Equality Index, a definitive benchmarking tool which takes into account an organisation’s employment policy and practice and anonymous responses from staff about their diversity and inclusion experiences at work.
LSE’s LGBT+ network, Spectrum, has been working in partnership with the School’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) office and HR to support a more inclusive culture at the University.
In the index, LSE performed particularly well in its work to develop strong policies and procedures to support LGBT staff, including the introduction of a Trans Champion who is a named contact on Spectrum’s website.
Specialist external training for staff such as trans inclusive training provided by the Gender Identity Research and Education Society and ongoing visible activity on LGBT equality was also commended. These include the development of an online role models and allies directory for staff and the dissemination of postcards with advice for LGBT colleagues.
Welcoming the announcement, LSE’s Chief Operating Officer Andrew Young said: “I’m delighted that LSE’s progress towards delivering our commitment to creating an inclusive, accessible and safe environment to study and work has been recognised in the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index 2019.
“Moving forward, we will continue to build on our work ensuring all staff and students feel valued, respected and supported, in collaboration with LSE’s LGBT+ network, Spectrum, and teams throughout the School.”
Chair of LSE’s LGBT+ Network, Spectrum, Andrew Sherwood, added: “Spectrum is delighted the School has now entered the Stonewall Top 100 Employers for LGBT inclusion in the workplace. It is testament to the enthusiasm and dedication over a number of years, not only of the volunteers who support Spectrum, but colleagues across the School, who work towards ensuring LSE is a place where individuals can come to work, and to study, and be themselves.”
Darren Towers, Stonewall’s Executive Director said: “The London School of Economics and Political Science and all those who have made this year’s Top 100 Employers list are making a huge difference to workplaces, services and communities across the UK. LGBT-inclusive employers play a crucial role in changing society by using their power and influence to protect and support LGBT people.
“More than a third of LGBT staff (35 per cent) still hide their identity at work for fear of discrimination; that has an impact on productivity, wellbeing and more and shows we still have lots to do. However, with organisations like The London School of Economics and Political Science and displaying such a strong commitment to LGBT equality, we are one step closer to creating a world where all lesbian, gay, bi and trans employees are welcomed and accepted without exception.”
This announcement comes as LSE, in partnership with Spectrum, launch their plans for LGBT History Month in February. Events include LSE OUTing, the Past Hub Day at LSE Library and an event on Improving LGBT+ Mental Health Provision in HE. For details of LGBT History Month events please click here.