LGBTQ+ inclusion is important in the workplace for a variety of reasons – it enhances employee well-being, promotes diversity and representation, allows companies to meet their legal and ethical responsibilities, and can encourage open communication among employees, just to name a few.
But before we look at these in more detail, it is important to understand the meaning of LGBTQ+ inclusion and what the various types of LGBTQ+ discrimination found in the workplace are.
LGBTQ+ Inclusion Meaning
In short, LGBTQ+ inclusion, also referred to as LGBTQ+ inclusivity, is the deliberate effort and commitment to create a welcoming and supportive environment within various social settings, such as workplaces, schools, and communities, that embraces individuals who identify within the LGBTQ+ community.
The goal of LGBTQ+ inclusion is to create an accepting and supportive environment where LGBTQ+ individuals feel they can thrive, contribute, and be valued for their unique identities. While the fight for LGBTQ+ rights has come a long way, the challenges LGBTQ+ individuals face in the community are still apparent, for example, sexual orientation discrimination.
This is why establishing an inclusive environment, whether it be at work or in schools, where LGBTQ+ individuals feel safe and secure is absolutely crucial, allowing them to express their true selves without fear of judgement, harassment, or prejudice.
Types of LGBTQ+ Discrimination in the Workplace
Unfortunately, workplaces can be a really challenging environment for LGBTQ+ individuals, due to discrimination, bias, or lack of inclusive policies.
In fact, a 2022 survey reported that half of LGBTQ+ and “sexual and gender diverse” people experienced some form of workplace discrimination or harassment in the past year because of their sexual orientation or gender identity, with the number jumping to 70% for transgender respondents.
Often, these workers quit as a result, shown in a study by the Williams Institute on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Law and Public Policy, which reported that more than one-third of LGBTQ+ employees said they have left a job because of how they were treated by their employer based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Discrimination against LGBTQ+ employees can present themselves in a number of different forms, including:
- Recruitment discrimination – Refusing to hire an applicant based on their LGBTQ+ identity or sexual orientation.
- Wrongful termination – Dismissing/terminating an employee or denying promotions due to their LGBTQ+ identity, rather than their job performance.
- Unequal pay – Providing LGBTQ+ employees with lower salaries, fewer benefits, or inequitable treatment.
- Isolation – Purposely excluding LGBTQ+ employees from workplace activities, events, or professional networks.
- Bullying – Engaging in persistent and harmful behaviour towards members of the LGBTQ+ community, such as making transphobic comments, refusing to use preferred pronouns and creating a threatening and intimidating workplace environment.
If you are experiencing an LGBTQ+ discrimination issue at work and feel you have been treated badly by your employers, legal action is there to help.
Get in touch with ourspecialist Employment Law solicitors here at Harding Evans who are experienced in this area of employment and can advise you on any potential claim we think you may have.
Why Is LGBTQ+ Inclusion Important in the Workplace?
LGBTQ+ inclusion is important in the workplace because:
- It enhances employee well-being & job satisfaction
- It can help businesses attract the top-talent
- It allows companies to meet their legal and ethical responsibilities
- It promotes diversity and representation
1. It Enhances Employee Well-Being & Job Satisfaction
First and foremost, LGBTQ+ inclusion in the workplace has a direct correlation to increased employee well-being, through numerous policies and practices that foster a supportive and affirming environment for LGBTQ+ individuals.
When individuals feel safe, valued and supported at work, they can focus on their tasks without the stress of concealing their identities or facing prejudice. Anti-discrimination policies and a supportive workplace culture therefore helps mitigate the mental health challenges often faced due to workplace discrimination and stigmatisation.
In addition to mental health, a supportive, inclusive work environment also positively affects physical health. LGBTQ+ individuals who experience less stress and anxiety due to a welcoming workplace are more likely to have better overall physical health outcomes as a result.
Additionally, when employees feel as if they’re fully accepted and supported in the workplace, their job satisfaction naturally increases as a result. And satisfied employees are more likely to stay with the organisation, reducing turnover rates and maintaining a stable workforce.
2. It Can Help Businesses Attract the Top-Talent
From a business point of view, LGBTQ+ inclusive workplaces attract a broader pool of talent. This is because talented individuals seek employers that prioritise diversity, inclusion, and equality. And employers who openly create an affirming and supportive environment for their employees are much more likely to foster a happy work environment with a workforce who feel respected, valued and are more productive as a result.
What’s more, inclusive workplaces typically have much higher employee retention rates, as if employees feel respected and supported regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, they are more likely to stay with the company long-term.
3. It Allows Companies To Meet Their Legal and Ethical Responsibilities
Many jurisdictions have laws and regulations that protect LGBTQ+ individuals from workplace discrimination. In the UK, promoting LGBTQ+ inclusivity in the workplace enables companies to meet their legal and ethical responsibilities in compliance with UK laws and regulations.
For example, The Equality Act 2010 legally protects individuals from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender reassignment, and gender identity. An LGBTQ+ inclusive workplace therefore ensures compliance with this act by actively preventing discrimination.
4. It Promotes Diversity and Representation
Lastly, LGBTQ+ inclusion directly contributes to a diverse workforce, representing a spectrum of gender identities and sexual orientations. A diverse workplace brings with it a number of benefits, for example, it encourages a broad range of perspectives and ideas, and enhances creativity amongst employees.
Additionally, inclusive workplaces often have LGBTQ+ role models and mentors, allowing LGBTQ+ employees to see and hear first-hand success stories within the company. Having these mentors who understand their experiences can seriously boost confidence and job satisfaction, which is great for both the employer and employee.
How We Can Help
At Harding Evans, we are proud to be able to stand by the side of the LGBTQ+ communities across South Wales and beyond.
Our specialist Employment Law lawyers are experienced in LGBTQ+ discrimination and you can trust them to deal with your case with understanding and empathy.
For more support on LGBTQ+ legal advice, please contact us today. Alternatively, you can check out our related blogs on how to support LGBTQ+ in the workplace, what is the gender recognition certificate process? or what is sexual orientation discrimination at work?.
