The workplace has been given a top rating by Stonewall for its recruitment process
CARDIFF Council has received a gold award during LGTBQ+ History Month for its commitment to improving equality and diversity in the workplace.
The gold status is part of Stonewall’s Bring Yourself to Work campaign.
Liz Ward, of Stonewall said: “We spend so much of our time at work, and our career can be a huge part of how we define ourselves. Every single lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer person should be able to be themselves at work.
“It’s fantastic that Cardiff Council has gained gold for their efforts and commitment to creating an inclusive work environment, and we look forward to seeing and supporting the rest of their inclusion journey.”
The council have been recognised for an improved recruitment process which accepts name and address-blind CVs. Cardiff council is also a part of the LGBTQ+ Employee Network which aims to improve the experience of employees.
Grangetown councillor Ashley Lister, who identifies as bisexual, said: “It is fantastic to see the council receive a gold award. I’m grateful to all those staff involved in making this possible and to the leader and his Cabinet, for their continued commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community and for retaining our links with Stonewall.”
Stonewall is viewed as controversial by some for its stand on trans rights causing some big companies to pull out of the programme.
Some senior Cardiff University academics believe its views are contrary to the principles of free speech, for instance in the debate over whether transgender women should compete in female sports, and other issues that could be viewed as harmful to women’s rights.
Despite this, Stonewall remains the largest LGBTQ+ organisation in Europe.
Yan White, founder of The Queer Emporium, a shop comprised of 18 different LGTBQ+ run businesses, said: “The fact that Cardiff Council have received the Stonewall employer award shows that things are changing and that Cardiff is a city for progressive LGTBQ rights on a local government level.”
Riverside resident Alun Saunders, 42 said: “Stonewall’s work in Wales is absolutely vital to protecting our community, speaking up positively on our behalf and representing our rights and interests.
“As a resident of Cardiff for 20 years, a gay man; a father, and somebody who recently suffered a homophobic verbal and physical attack in our city, I couldn’t be happier to see Cardiff Council working with Stonewall to ensure best practice.
However, the homophobic attack that took the life of Dr Gary Jenkins shows there is still much work to do, added Mr Saunders.
“I am thoroughly reassured by Cardiff Council’s ongoing commitment to collaborate with and embrace the expertise of Stonewall and Stonewall Cymru.”
