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The University of Exeter has maintained its position within Stonewall’s top 200 employers

Exeter cements position amongst top 200 best employers for LGBT staff

The University of Exeter has maintained its position as one of the top-200 best employers in Britain for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender staff.

The University is positioned 181st in the high profile rankings, published by leading charity Stonewall today (January 21st 2019).

The ranking, now in its 15th year, celebrates the efforts of leading organisations to create inclusive workplaces and is based on a range of key indicators which include confidential questionnaire of staff.

Dorcas Cowan - Equality, Diversity, Inclusivity & Wellbeing Manager at the University of Exeter said: “We’re delighted to have maintained our position within Stonewall’s top 200 employers in recognition of our work towards creating an inclusive environment for those of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

“The University is committed to continuing our work to further embed an inclusive culture based on the core underlying belief that people feel and perform better when they can be themselves and feel included, respected and supported.

“The diversity of our staff and student community is an essential part of our values and enriches the world-leading teaching and research at the University of Exeter.”

Stonewall recognised efforts at the University of Exeter to support all workers to be comfortable being open about their sexual orientation and gender identity at work. This includes the continued success of the LGBTQ+ Staff Network, where people can meet regularly to socialise and the establishment of a new Senior Allies Network.  Staff are also able to have rainbow lanyards to show their support for an LGBT-inclusive workplace, while the University also continues to be a key sponsor of the Exeter Pride event.

LGBT staff are increasingly involved in providing advice and input into decisions made at the University about inclusivity, training and policies with members of the LGBTQ+ Staff Network serving on the University's Inclusivity Group.

A total of 445 organisations – a record number - took part in the index this year. Organisations who want to participate in the rankings have to demonstrate their work to promote equality in ten areas, including policies, having allies and role models, senior leadership, monitoring, procurement, and community engagement.

Date: 21 January 2019