63% of LGBTQ+ employees face discrimination in the workplace
Manchester Pride unveils groundbreaking ‘Coming Out at Work’ policy to mark National Coming Out Day, 11th October
11 October 2024
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Manchester Pride is proud to announce the launch of a pioneering Coming Out at Work policy ahead of National Coming Out Day on 11th October, aimed at creating more inclusive workplaces.With LGBTQ+ employees facing alarming levels of discrimination - 63% have experienced workplace discrimination, and 44% have left jobs due to a lack of acceptance - this policy addresses a critical need for more inclusive and supportive workplaces.Unlike existing equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) frameworks, Manchester Pride’s Coming Out at Work policy provides specific guidance for employers to proactively support LGBTQ+ staff in the workplace. Recent statistics underline the urgency:
- 1 in 3 LGBTQ+ employees have been harassed or bullied at work.
- 45% of LGBTQ+ individuals have been overlooked for promotions.
- 70% feel lonely, misunderstood, or excluded at work.
- The LGBTQ+ pay gap sits at 16%.
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Mark Fletcher, CEO of Manchester Pride, said: “This new policy is a much-needed resource, that not only raises awareness but also actively contributes to the creation of safer, more inclusive environments where employees can bring their authentic selves to work.“We believe that everyone should feel safe and supported in the workplace. Our Coming Out at Work policy is a crucial step in ensuring that LGBTQ+ employees not only have the confidence to come out but can thrive in their work environment without fear of discrimination.To promote the new policy, Manchester Pride has developed a Supporting LGBTQ+ Staff with Coming Out in the Workplace guide, available as a free downloadable resource. The guide offers actionable steps for employers, including:
- Proactive measures to create an inclusive environment.
- Legal guidance on the importance of safeguarding LGBTQ+ identities, especially regarding the dangers and illegality of ‘outing’ without consent.
- Case studies of those who share how being out at work has transformed professional lives.
- Trust their employer (47% vs. 21% of closeted employees).
- Have an entrepreneurial spirit (35% vs. 23% of closeted employees).
- Feel satisfied with promotion opportunities (64% vs. 48% of closeted employees).
About Manchester Pride
Manchester Pride is one of the UK's leading LGBTQ+ charities, committed to campaigning for equality, celebrating LGBTQ+ life, and creating opportunities that engage LGBTQ+ people in Greater Manchester.About the All Equals Charter
The All Equals Charter is Manchester Pride’s equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) programme to help businesses and organisations understand, recognise and challenge any form of discrimination in the workplace. Supported by Manchester Pride’s expert team, Charter members have access to specialist knowledge to develop and adapt everything from policies and procedures, to training and education offered to their workforce.
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