Council praised for gay-friendly workplace (From Bournemouth Echo)

Council praised for gay-friendly workplace

1:00pm Monday 4th March 2013 in News

BOURNEMOUTH council has been praised for its efforts in providing a gay-friendly workplace.

A survey conducted by Stonewall has seen the council score 123 points out of 200 – a 10-point improvement on last year.

This total ranks the council at number 144 on Stonewalls’ Workplace Equality Index 2013.

The index recognises employers who make a positive commitment to developing an inclusive and welcoming workplace for lesbian, gay and bisexual employees.

Cllr Lawrence Williams, cabinet member for corporate police implementation, said he was “delighted” with the increased score.

“This is a direct result of the positive approach we have towards advancing equality for all lesbian, gay and bisexual communities, staff and councillors through engagement of staff via our network group, our support for International Day Against Homophobia and the ‘Bournemouth Free’ Pride Festival.”

“We are committed to equality, diversity and fairness in the workplace and strive to ensure all our staff feel welcome and supported in their roles.

“We will endeavour to make further improvements this year.”

A representative from Stonewall, Mandy McBain MBE, said Bournemouth council was “absolutely moving in the right direction.”