BWC named on Stonewall Top 100 list
Stonewall, Europe’s largest charity for lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer rights, launched its widely anticipated Top 100 Employers List and Birmingham Woman’s and Children’s NHS Trust was recognised for its work in supporting LGBTQ+ staff to be themselves at work.
Stonewall’s Top 100 Employers List 2024 is the UK’s leading ranking of employers from public, private and third sectors on how inclusive their workplaces are. BWC has been ranked 67th in the UK, 26 steps up from last year.
BWC also won the Gold Award, which recognises exceptional employers who are committed to supporting their LGBTQ+ staff and customers.
Ruth Wall, Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion commented: "Over the past year, BWC has taken further strides towards creating an inclusive working environment. I’m extremely proud of everyone who has worked hard and supported our LGBTQ+ staff network to achieve such recognition.
"Our LGBTQ+ Network supports colleagues, raises awareness, assesses decision making and enables innovative approaches to make our organisation stronger. It has really helped created an environment where staff can give and be their best and bring their whole selves to work."
Lyndsay Evans, Network Co-chair said “I am grateful to all the staff across the trust who are committed to ensuring that the LGBTQ+ community are supported, whether they are staff, or families who use our services. The gold award is wonderful to have as it highlights the hard work that goes on behind the scenes that ensures our community feel safe and seen.”
Delia Poolton, Network Co-chair said “Receiving the Stonewall Gold Award is a wonderful achievement, in showing our commitment to supporting our staff and families, upholding inclusive values and cultivating an inclusive environment for all.
Thank you to the Stonewall BWC Committee, who worked tirelessly, our Staff Network members and all who contributed, to enable us to receive our Gold Accreditation Award”
Nancy Kelley, CEO of Stonewall (she/her) said: ‘It’s been fantastic to see all of the work put in by BWC 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.”