Thursday, August 29, 2024

Over 52% of LGBT people in UK report being bullied or harrassed at work



A survey published by the Trades Union Congress (TUC) suggested more than half (52%) of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBT) people in UK report being bullied or harassed at work, in the last five years.

The new poll found: 

  • Around one in five (19%) LGBT people had been exposed to verbal abuse at work in the last five years. 
  • More than a quarter (28%) said they had homophobic, biphobic or transphobic remarks directed at them or made in their presence. 
  • And one in 20 (5%) told that they had experienced physical violence, threats or intimidation at work because of their sexual orientation. 

As a result, it is not surprising that nearly three in 10 (29%) of LGBT people keep their sexual orientation a secret at work.  

TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said:  

“This new report shines a light on the extent of discrimination LGBT workers face in our workplaces. LGBT+ people should be safe and supported at work. But instead, they’re experiencing shockingly high levels of bulling and harassment – including assault.   

“Workplace culture clearly needs to change. No one should think that a colleague being LGBT means it’s ok to make discriminatory comments or ask them inappropriate questions – let alone carry out serious acts of assault. 

“Ministers must change the law to put the responsibility for preventing harassment on employers, not victims. We need stronger workplace rights to protect all staff from abuse at work. Good, secure jobs are essential to building a motivated, healthy workforce – and are what every worker deserves. 

“And employers must adopt a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of bullying, harassment and discrimination.” 

Check the poll here.



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