Cardiff Council has been distinguished once again for its outstanding commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusivity, securing a place in the prestigious Stonewall Top 100 Employers list for 2024.
The council has also retained its esteemed Gold Award status, recognising its dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ staff and customers. This achievement marks Cardiff Council as a leading local authority in Wales for LGBTQ+ inclusion, setting a high standard for others in the public sector.
What is the Stonewall Top 100 Employers List?
The Stonewall Top 100 Employers list is a highly respected benchmark for LGBTQ+ workplace equality, celebrating organisations that go above and beyond in supporting their LGBTQ+ employees.
Cardiff Council joins other top employers across various sectors, including construction, legal, health, finance, and education, in being recognised for its inclusive practices. The council’s continued presence in this list highlights its commitment to creating a welcoming workplace where LGBTQ+ employees can bring their full selves to work without fear of discrimination or exclusion.
Commitment to Equality and Inclusion and the LGBTQ+ Community
Cllr Julie Sangani, Cardiff Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for equalities, expressed pride in the council’s achievements.
“I am delighted to see that Cardiff Council has maintained its Top 100 place in the Stonewall Index this year and has again been given a Gold Award by the charity. These are achievements to be extremely proud of in themselves, but I am also very pleased to see that the exemplary work of staff across the organisation has again resulted in Cardiff Council being the highest-ranked local authority in Wales,”
Cardiff Council’s Cabinet Member, Councillor Julie Sangani
Cllr Sangani also emphasised the council’s broader commitment to inclusivity, referencing the “Stronger Fairer Greener” policy priorities.
“Our commitment to ‘build on our Stonewall Gold Status award as part of our commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusivity, aiming to become a Stonewall top 100 employer and the highest-ranked local authority in Wales in the Stonewall Index’ remains a crucial element of our strategy,”
Cardiff Council’s Cabinet Member, Councillor Julie Sangani
She added. “The fact that we have secured all three of those commitments once again this year is further testament to the hard work and dedication of staff intent on putting our equalities policies into action.”
Stonewall’s Role and the Importance of Inclusivity
Founded in 1989, Stonewall is the UK’s leading charity advocating for lesbian, gay, bi, and trans equality. The organisations mission is to create a world where every LGBTQ+ person can live freely and authentically. Stonewalls work includes campaigning for LGBTQ+ rights, partnering with employers to foster inclusive workplaces, and working with schools to ensure that LGBTQ+ students are supported.
Colin Macfarlane, Director of Programmes and Income at Stonewall, highlighted the significance of inclusive workplace practices.
“Implementing inclusive practices and policies is vital for employers who wish to attract and retain top LGBTQ+ talent,” he stated.
“The Workplace Equality Index draws participants from diverse industries and sectors, all of whom understand that inclusivity is the future and are leading the way in this vital change. By championing LGBTQ+ employees, you are fostering a happy and motivated workforce and contributing to a UK where LGBTQ+ people can thrive as their true selves.”
Cardiff Council Exemplar Case Studies
Cardiff Council has implemented significant initiatives to support LGBTQ+ inclusivity. For example, the council supports Glitter Cymru, a group providing a platform for Black, Asian, and minority ethnic LGBTQ+ individuals, fostering intersectional understanding (Queer Cardiff).
Another key initiative is the council’s partnership with Cardiff Youth Council and Cardiff University to engage young people in policy-making, focusing on creating safe spaces and promoting gender equity (cardiffjournalism.co.uk) (Cardiff Youth Council).
These efforts contribute to Cardiff Council’s recognition as a leading LGBTQ+ employer and underscore its commitment to a supportive and inclusive environment.
Final Thought
Cardiff Council’s recognition as a top LGBTQ+ employer underscores its unwavering dedication to inclusivity and equality. The council’s continued efforts not only support their LGBTQ+ staff and customers but also set a benchmark for other public sector organisations.
By fostering an environment where diversity is celebrated, Cardiff Council is leading the way towards a more inclusive future, demonstrating that embracing all identities is not just a policy but a core value. This commitment to creating a supportive workplace is a testament to the power of progressive leadership and community engagement.
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