The University of Plymouth LGBT+ Staff Forum is delighted to announce that the University has once again climbed the rankings of Stonewall’s Workplace Equality Index (WEI) placing 156th out of 445 entries; the institution’s highest ever result against a record number of submissions. The University was ranked against a wide-range of organisations from multiple sectors through an evidence-based application process covering practice, policy and community engagement with the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender community.
“We are delighted with this result which highlights the commitment of forum members and the University to making our environment a truly inclusive workplace for our LGBT+ colleagues. We will continue to work together with the University Equality and Diversity team over the year ahead to ensure we develop in the areas highlighted from the Stonewall feedback so that we continue our progress throughout 2019.” – LGBT+ Staff Forum
Stonewall Workplace Equality Index
Organisations that enter the Index compile an evidence-based submission covering 10 different areas of practice from policy to community engagement. To complete the submission, Stonewall also seeks feedback directly from entrants’ employees through a survey covering key indicators of workplace culture. Submissions are marked by internal Stonewall experts, cross-checked and then ranked, with the top 100 organisations celebrated as Stonewall’s Top 100 Employers for LGBT+ people. Detailed feedback is given to entrants to help them plan their year ahead and further develop inclusive workplaces and services across Britain.
Initiatives in 2018
Working alongside the University of Plymouth, and Faculty Equality and Diversity specialists, the LGBT+ Staff Forum implemented a number of key initiatives to improve the working lives of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender staff, including:
- The formation of an LGBT+ Allies network with rainbow lanyards available to all who signed up as a visible pledge of support.
- Hosting a lunch and learn for International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia with the local LGBT+ community.
- Relaunching their Twitter page (@PULGBTForum) with a focus on celebrating a diverse range of events within the LGBT+ community and beyond.
- Supporting and staffing the University stand at Plymouth Respect Festival.
- Continued sponsorship and support of Plymouth Pride Festival including an opening speech by the LGBT+ Forum’s Senior Ally, David Alder.
Upcoming work
The LGBT+ Staff Forum will continue their hard work into 2019 and build on the success of their WEI result. As well as continually growing the LGBT+ Allies network and sponsoring Plymouth Pride Festival, the LGBT+ Staff forum are hosting a wide range of events for LGBT+ History month in February including a talk by internationally-renowned transgender activist, Jessica Lynn. The full list of events for LGBT History Month are available on the University’s Equality and Diversity webpages.
If you would like to become a member of the LGBT+ Staff Forum or sign up as an ally then email LGBTForum@Plymouth.ac.uk