Equality in the workplace

Cardiff University has been ranked 49^th in the Stonewall Top 100 Employers 2012 Workplace Equality Index in recognition of its commitment to equality for lesbian, gay and bisexual employees.

This is the second consecutive year that the University has entered the Top 100 and marks a rise of more than thirty places over the past twelve months.

In addition, Cardiff's Pro Vice-Chancellor for Staff and Diversity, Professor Terry Threadgold has been named Stonewall Cymru's Wales 'Welsh Workplace Champion of the Year' for her work on Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual (LGB) equality issues.

The award recognises senior leaders that have had a transformative effect on the culture of their organisation and the workplace experience of lesbian, gay and bisexual staff.

Director of Stonewall Cymru Andrew White said: "It is clear from the feedback we have received form Cardiff University's staff that Professor Threadgold and her team have been a huge factor in the organisation's success in this year's Workplace Equality Index."

The Index benchmarks the progress made by UK organisations on lesbian, gay and bisexual equality within the workplace and remains a powerful tool used by Britain's 1.7 million gay employees and 150,000 gay university students when deciding where to take their talent and skills.

Dignity, courtesy and respect are three of Cardiff University's core values and equality and diversity is a key theme of the University's Positive Working Environment initiative.

Professor Threadgold said: "I'm delighted that our good employment practice has again been recognised and thrilled to be honoured personally by Stonewall Cymru in this way. Cardiff's ranking demonstrates our continued commitment to equality and ensuring an inclusive, welcoming and productive workplace."

Karen Cooke, Chair of the staff LGBT+ network Enfys added: "Our achievement in the Index this year is really pleasing and represents the hard work of many people to raise the profile of LGBT+ equality.

"I am equally thrilled that Terry has been recognised for her huge contribution to the network and LGBT+ staff in general. Many members of staff will be unaware of her significant contribution but it is fair to say that we would not have achieved what we have achieved without her support and professionalism. Having senior staff engaged and committed to the LGBT+ agenda is essential."

Cardiff was one of six UK universities to feature in the Index and one of only three listed in the top 50. The University was the first employer in Wales to join Stonewall's 'Diversity Champions' and submits an entry for Stonewall's Workplace Equality Index on an annual basis.