LGBTQ+ is an umbrella term that is inclusive to many different sexualities and gender identities, such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer, and there are around 1.5 million people identifying with an LGBTQ+ orientation in the UK.
Employers, HR professionals, managers and other workplace allies have the power to help improve the wellbeing of diverse employees and support LGBTQ+ in the workplace.
Here are 5 ways you can support LGBTQ+ in the workplace:
- Educate yourself on all things LGBTQ+
- Respect chosen pronouns
- Speak up against discrimination
- Implement policies and training
- Create a safe space for open communication
1. Educate Yourself on All Things LGBTQ+
Whether you’re an employer or employee, the first step to supporting LGBTQ+ in the workplace is to educate yourself about LGBTQ+ terminology, issues, and challenges.
Taking the time to gain as much knowledge as possible will help you understand the experiences of your LGBTQ+ employees and colleagues better, and help you communicate sensitively.
How To Learn About LGBTQ+
Fortunately, there are a number of ways you can educate yourself on all aspects of LGBTQ+, for example:
- Online resources – There are a vast amount of reputable websites, blogs, and educational platforms online that offer information on LGBTQ+ topics, history, rights, and pronouns. For example, the LGBTQ Foundation and the Proud Trust.
- Books – There are a number of books written by LGBTQ+ authors and allies that cover a wide range of topics, from personal experiences to history and social issues.
- Documentaries/ films – Documentaries and films that highlight LGBTQ+ experiences, history, and struggles can provide powerful insights and help your understanding of all things LGBTQ+.
2. Respect Chosen Pronouns
Pronouns are spoken in everyday conversations, and are used to talk about a person when we’re not using their name. These might be he/him, she/her, they/them or other pronouns.
The Importance of Using Correct Pronouns in the Workplace
Respecting employees’ chosen pronouns is of utmost importance in creating an inclusive and respectful workplace environment. Whether you’re an employer or colleague, calling someone by their chosen pronouns shows that you not only respect and validate their identity, but it also helps them feel acknowledged for who they really are.
Using the incorrect pronouns can also lead to emotional distress and have a negative impact on the individual’s mental well-being. Respecting pronouns therefore contributes to a much healthier and happier workplace environment.
How To Ask Someone About Their Pronouns
If you are unsure of someone’s pronouns, don’t assume, ask. Using pronouns like “they” can and should be used to refer to an individual whose gender identity is unknown.
To politely ask someone about their pronouns, make sure you’re in a setting where the individual feels comfortable having an open conversation. You might begin the conversation by sharing your own pronouns to help set an atmosphere of inclusivity. You could then say something like “to ensure I address everyone correctly, could you please share your pronouns with me?”.
3. Speak Up Against Discrimination
One of the most powerful things you can do, either as a colleague or employer, to show you support LGBTQ+ in the workplace is to speak up against any discrimination you may see. For example, if you witness someone being mistreated or hear offensive comments about their sexuality or gender identity, speak up against them. Your vocal support matters more than you might think.
What Is LGBTQ+ Discrimination in the Workplace?
In short, LGBTQ+ discrimination in the workplace is the unfair treatment or negative actions directed towards employees or job applicants in the LGBTQ+ community, i.e. towards individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or other non-binary identities. Discover more types of discrimination in the workplace, here.
Some examples of LGBTQ+ discrimination in the workplace include denying job opportunities to individuals, offensive behaviour, unequal treatment in terms of workload or benefits, misgendering, general bullying and more.
What To Do if You Are Discriminated at Work
Discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender reassignment is illegal in the UK, with both being listed as protected characteristics under the Equality Act (2010).
If you are experiencing an issue at work and feel you have been treated badly by your employers, legal action is there to help.
Our specialist Employment Law solicitors here at Harding Evans are experienced in this area of employment and can advise you on any potential claim we think you may have. What’s more, our expert solicitors will also talk you through the best strategy based on your individual circumstances, and will be on hand to assist you with any negotiations or difficult conversations that need to be had.
4. Implement Policies and Training
Employers implementing certain policies and training sessions around LGBTQ+ is a great way to show support and respect to individuals in the community.
The Equality Act 2010 is an anti-discrimination act in the UK which legally protects people from discrimination in the workplace and in wider society. Having policies in place ensures compliance with these laws and demonstrates the company’s commitment to equality.
These workplace policies also provide guidance to employees on how to behave, communicate, and interact in an inclusive manner, reducing the likelihood of unintentional LGBTQ+ discrimination. Additionally, these policies can include guidelines for accommodating transgender and non-binary employees, such as providing gender-neutral facilities or using preferred pronouns.
Discover more ways you can support LGBTQ+ and reduce discrimination in the workplace here.
At Harding Evans, our experienced employment solicitors can advise you on this and ensure clear policies can be drafted.
When it comes to awareness, workplaces could show their support by holding training sessions to educate employees and management about LGBTQ+ terminology and issues.
5. Create a Safe Space for Open Communication
Last but certainly not least, workplaces should be a safe space for everyone, and employers should therefore create a comfortable working environment that promotes open communication among all employees. Whether it be a safe space for employees to express their identities or encourage open communication about LGBTQ+, it’s crucial that everyone feels like they have a voice and that their voice will be heard without judgement or discrimination.
And there we have it! We hope this article has helped your understanding of LGBTQ+ discrimination and how you can support the LGBTQ+ community in the workplace.
At Harding Evans, we are proud to be able to stand by the side of the LGBTQ+ communities across South Wales and beyond, by providing not only our day to day legal help and advice, but also legal services that are specifically tailored to the needs of those who identify as LGBTQ+.
If you need any legal advice, please do not hesitate to contact us.
