University rated one of UK’s best for LGBTQ+ support

The University of Derby has been named one of the best employers in the UK when it comes to providing support for the LGBTQ+ community.

It has been ranked 13th in the Stonewall Top 100 Employers list, an increase of 84 places since first joining the Top 100 in 2023.

It has also been re-awarded Gold for LGBTQ+ inclusion.

The Top 100 Employers list is compiled from submissions to Stonewall’s UK Workplace Equality Index, the UK’s leading benchmarking tool for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the workplace.

The university’s impressive rise is in recognition of its work in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for staff, students, and visitors, where employees can bring their full selves to work.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell, the university’s vice-chancellor, said: “I’m delighted that the university has been recognised by Stonewall for the continuing emphasis that we place on supporting all people to be themselves.

“Our university celebrates and actively promotes an environment that challenges unconscious bias and discrimination at every level and recognises the impact of inclusion within an organisation. This ranking of 13th in the Top 100 list is our highest position so far.

“With the renewal of the Gold Employer Award, Stonewall is highlighting our ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive culture of belonging that feels safe for our staff and students to work and study.”

Dr Jo Bishton, head of equity, inclusion and wellbeing at the University of Derby, said: “Each year the university focuses on a variety of campaigns and initiatives to help to raise general LGBTQ+ awareness among our staff and students and we continue to engage with our external networks to influence and share best practice.

“Over the last year, we have paid particular attention to three key areas of importance: inclusive leadership, ensuring that our leadership development programme has a strong thread of inclusion running throughout; inclusive systems, consulting on process and guidance, such as the family friendly policies to ensure they are inclusive and representative, and consolidating learning; delivering an annual conference on inclusive language and practice.”