British defence and security organisations have been named in the list of the top 100 LGBT employers in the UK by charity Stonewall. The Top 100 is the UK’s definitive list ranking employers from across public, private and third sectors on how LGBT-inclusive their workplaces are and is intensely competitive.
The British Army is the sector leader, coming in at number 82 this year. The sector’s second-highest performing organisation is MI6 at number 88.
Deputy Chief of the General Staff at the British Army, Lieutenant General Chris Tickell CBE, said: “It is vital that every officer and soldier is treated with respect, whatever their protected characteristic or background and that the Army is proud of the role that our LGBT+ soldiers and officers play in ensuring the country’s security.”
“We strive to be an inclusive employer that respects difference, attracts talent from all areas of society, overtly embraces equality of opportunity and always challenges unacceptable behaviour. We recognise the value a diverse workforce offers and the important contribution that an inclusive environment brings to delivering our operational effectiveness.”
“We are proud that the work we do has been recognised by Stonewall and are delighted to have retained our position in the Top 100 Employers list. As an organisation, we remain fully committed to ensuring that all our people feel confident in bringing their whole selves to work.”
Stonewall research shows that one in seven LGBT employees (14 per cent) don’t feel able to be themselves at work and almost one in five LGBT people (18 per cent) have experienced discrimination when applying for jobs because of their identity. Full results of the Top 100 Employers list can be found online at https://www.stonewall.org.uk/full-list-top-100-employers-2020 .
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British Army charity Defence Staff employment MI6 and GCHQ RAF Research