Diversity Celebrated at RCT!
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s work to create an inclusive, supportive workplace for LGBT staff has led to the authority leaping 55 places to make it into Stonewall’s top 100 Employers in the UK to work for.
Passion, innovation and a genuine commitment to create an inclusive workplace is heralded as the reason for the Council’s continued success in this important initiative.
When the Council first entered the Stonewall’s Top 100 Employers, a definitive list based on staff feedback and workplace practice that showcases the best employers for lesbian, gay, bi and trans staff, two years ago, it was ranked 336.
The huge amount of work that has gone on across the authority, in partnership with support groups, charities, voluntary organisations and campaign groups has paid off, with the Council now one of the best businesses in Wales in terms of creating an inclusive workplace.
Cllr Geraint Hopkins, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Services, Equality and the Welsh Language said: “We are proud to be flying the flag for not only Rhondda Cynon Taf, but Wales and the UK thanks to our success and improvement in Stonewall’s Workplace Equality Index.
“To progress from 336th position to in 78th in just two years is testament to the exceptional work that has taken place across the county borough by the Council and its partners.
“From training and awareness to bespoke support for staff, there are a range of innovative measures that have led to this year’s ranking, which is based on assessment of the workplace culture, as well as feedback from staff.
“As Stonewall Diversity Champions, we will continue to deliver and improve, and hope that, next year, this will be reflected not only by a continued rise up the rankings but also by the way our staff feel in the workplace.”
Martyn David who is Chair of the Council’s staff LGBT Network, added: “It comes as no surprise to me that Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has hit the Top 100 in this year’s workplace index – the team’s passion and conviction to improve equality in work and across the community is indescribable.
“Their forward-thinking and genuine interest in the lives of LGBT staff makes me feel supported and empowered everyday – I can’t congratulate them enough for this well deserved honour.”
Andrew White, Director of Stonewall Cymru concluded: “Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and all of those employers that secured a place in the Stonewall Top 100 Employers 2016 list performed fantastically this year.
“With 12 Welsh employers in this year’s index and four new entries into the Top 100, Wales is punching above its weight in supporting LGBT equality.
“Making the list is a huge achievement and I’d like to thank all of those organisations for their continued efforts to ensure that their lesbian, gay, bi and trans staff feel comfortable to bring their whole selves to work and are accepted without exception.”
