Leicestershire County Council is the best local government employee for lesbian, gay, bi and trans staff, according to the results of Stonewall’s annual index.
The Top 100 Employers list from the charity highlights organisations that do ‘exceptional and pioneering work’ to ensure LGBT equality in the workplace.
This year, eight councils made the top 100 list - Leicestershire County Council, Newcastle City Council, London Borough of Tower Hamlets, Bury Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Sheffield City Council, Cheshire West and Chester Council and Birmingham City Council.
Cllr Alan Rhodes, leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, said: ‘At a time when we hear disturbing reports that intolerance and hate crime generally is on the increase, it is more important than ever for public bodies to do more to tackle inequality and stand up for the diverse communities we represent.’
However, the survey did reveal that one in eight LGB people would not feel comfortable disclosing their sexual orientation to any managers or senior colleagues. One in five trans employees wouldn’t feel comfortable disclosing their gender identity to any colleagues.
Last year, local authorities made up 15% of the top 100 employees.
