Newcastle City Council is the best local authority for LGBT staff inclusion, according to Stonewall’s Top 100 Employers 2018.

The council has been placed in the top five of the annual review for the first time, and also received special recognition as one of the UK’s best employers for trans staff.

The council’s deputy leader, Cllr Joyce McCarty, said: ‘I am immensely proud that once again we have climbed even further up Stonewall’s Top 100 list.

‘We pride ourselves on treating everybody equally and equality is absolutely among our core values. A lot of members of staff have worked tirelessly to achieve this recognition and this is a fantastic outcome for all their efforts

Eight other councils also made the Top 100 list: Nottinghamshire County Council, Bury Council, Sheffield City Council, Leicestershire County Council, Leeds City Council, Sunderland City Council, Northumberland City Council and Nottingham City Council.

Darren Towers, Stonewall’s executive director, said: ‘All these local government councils have made this year’s Top 100 Employers list have done a wonderful job. LGBT-inclusive employers play a crucial role in changing society by using their power and influence to protect and support LGBT people.

'With so many councils 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.’