MIDLANDS water company Severn Trent is celebrating after being placed 23th in this year’s Stonewall Workplace Equality Index (WEI).
Stonewalls WEI assesses leading Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) inclusive workplaces in the UK.
The charity sets tough benchmarks based on a range of standards including policy, training, network groups, employee engagement, procurement and community engagement.
Natasha Haywood, LGBTQ+ Chair at Severn Trent said: “We’re absolutely delighted with this placing, and our teams and working groups have worked tirelessly, but with passion, to drive and create a culture that has LGBTQ+ rights at the heart of it.
“Whether that’s through policy changes, educating our entire workforce, building a strong community of allies or standing side by side with our communities on LGBTQ+ issues, this ranking proves as a company we’re moving in the right direction and creating a place that is welcoming and safe for all.”
Over 500 companies across the UK are part of the index, and Severn Trent’s top 25 ranking makes them the highest-ranking water company and utility company.
Nancy Kelley, CEO of Stonewall said: “It’s been fantastic to see all of the work put in by Severn Trent over the past year to create a workplace where LGBTQ+ staff feel free to thrive as themselves.
“For many of us, the majority of our time is spent at work, so if we have to hide who we are it can take an enormous personal toll and hold us back from fulfilling our true potential.
“Creating environments where we can all feel comfortable makes our workplaces a safer, better and friendlier place for everyone and helps staff be proud of who they are.
“We’re incredibly proud to see so many new entrants from a range of sectors on this year’s list, who are committed to making LGBTQ+ people’s lives better.”
For the full Stonewall top 100 list, visit www.stonewall.org.uk/top-100-employers/full-list
