County council ranks among top gay-friendly employers

West Sussex County Council has been ranked 78 in Stonewall's annual top 100 employers list, showcasing Britain's best employers for lesbian, gay and bisexual staff.

The full results of the 2013 Stonewall top employers list was announced on Wednesday 16 January 2013.

Set up in 1989, Stonewall has put the case for equality on the mainstream political agenda. Their Workplace Equality Index allows for employers to measure their efforts to tackle discrimination and create inclusive workplaces for lesbian, gay and bisexual employees. Since 2005 more than 750 employers have taken part in the index, using Stonewall’s criteria as a model for good practice.

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West Sussex County Council Leader Louise Goldsmith said: “This is very good news for the County Council – having risen from 94 in last year’s rankings to 78 this year.

“The County Council is committed to equalities, and we recognise that a diverse workforce in turn can help to improve the services we provide by offering differing skills, experiences, backgrounds and cultures.”

The index is based on a range of key indicators which include a confidential survey of lesbian, gay and bisexual employees, with nearly 9,000 participants.

The full 2013 Workplace Equality Index is available here.