Welsh TUC launches '10-point action plan' to support LGBTQ+ workers
Their steps have been published in the wake of the Welsh Government's action plan, with the hope of making Wales the 'most LGBTQ+ friendly nation in Europe'
The Welsh TUC have launched a 10-point action plan amid a bid to make sure all workplaces are fairer and safer for LGBTQ+ people.
It follows the Welsh Government's steps earlier this year, with plans launched by them in a bid to make Wales the most LGBTQ+ friendly nation in Europe.
The union's calls are seen as a 'key tool' for turning policy into action.
Guidance has been published this week as May 17 saw the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, a day which helps to stimulate interest in LGBT rights work across the globe.
Currently in Wales, the TUC say LGBTQ+ people are more likely to face hatred in the forms of transphobia, homophobia, biphobia or other forms of hatred and discrimination which can impact on their mental health, their confidence to progress at work, and their performance.
Alongside this, they add many transgender, intersex and gender non-conforming people report persistent transphobia, negative treatment, and aggression whilst in or searching for work.
Shavanah Taj, Wales TUC General Secretary, said: "The trade union movement in Wales is committed to fighting for the rights of all workers. We want all LGBTQ+ workers, including those with intersectional identities, to be proud and safe at work. Everyone deserves to work in an inclusive, respectful and safe environment.
“Our dedicated trade union reps in public, private, third sector and self-employment continue to work towards making this a reality. It’s now time for employers to make a step change in how they support LGBTQ+ people.”
Phil Jones, Chair of Wales TUC’s LGBTQ+ forum, said: “Unfortunately, hatred and discrimination still exist in many workplaces, making it difficult for LGBTQ+ individuals to feel safe and secure.
"As trade unionists, we understand that being treated fairly in the workplace is crucial. So we want to ensure that Wales is a welcoming and inclusive place for all its residents and workers, where everyone can be their true selves and feel safe doing so.”
The new workplace guidance takes reps through the following 10 points:
- Incorporate gender neutral language to make workplaces more welcoming to all workers
- Allow workers to express their pronouns to create a more comfortable environment for trans and non-binary workers
- Support workers who are transitioning by creating a welcoming and inclusive culture, and taking preventative action against transphobia
- Develop workplace policies in consultation with workers to make work fairer for all
- Recognise that progression may be an issue for LGBTQ+ people due to discrimination and create opportunities for training and career progression
- Push for employers to report on LGBTQ+ pay gaps
- Implement anti-bullying practices and take action against discrimination or harassment towards LGBTQ+ workers
- Set up a staff union backed LGBTQ+ group or network for support, solidarity and friendship
- Celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month, but also take meaningful action to support LGBTQ+ people throughout the year
- Build a strong union to ensure representation of LGBTQ+ people at every level
Phil Jones added: "We're hoping this 10-point action plan will help to incorporate proper, inclusive policies with employers.
"There are many employers out there in Wales that are truly fantastic with this issue. These next steps are purely about the good practices which are done by these employers, and making sure they follow through, no matter what industry you work in.
"We have come a hell of a way, but there are still reports and surveys out there which we hear about constantly which say people aren't comfortable about being 'out' in the community, and in the workplace and hopefully this action plan goes some way to changing that."
You can read more about the Welsh Government's action plan here.