Workplace discrimination remains a significant issue for LGBT+ employees in Britain, with many individuals facing harassment, exclusion, and a lack of support from employers. Findings in LGBT in Britain - Work Report, based on YouGov research with 3,213 LGBT+ employees, highlight the ongoing challenges and systemic inequalities in professional environments.
Key Findings
More than a third (35%) of LGBT+ employees have concealed their identity at work in the past year due to fear of discrimination.
One in ten Black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) LGBT+ employees (10%) have experienced physical attacks from customers or colleagues, a significantly higher rate than white LGBT+ staff (3%).
Almost two in five bisexual employees (38%) have not disclosed their sexual orientation to anyone at work.
Nearly one in five LGBT+ employees (18%) have been subjected to hostile comments or conduct from colleagues in the past year.
One in eight transgender employees (12%) has been physically attacked at work due to their gender identity.
One in eight BAME LGBT+ staff (12%) reported losing their job in the past year because of their identity, compared to 4% of white LGBT+ staff.
Almost a third of non-binary employees (31%) and one in five trans workers (18%) feel unable to wear attire that aligns with their gender expression at work.
One in eight lesbian, gay, and bisexual employees (12%) lack confidence in reporting homophobic or biphobic bullying, while 21% of trans employees feel the same about transphobic bullying.
Nearly one in five LGBT+ individuals (18%) seeking employment in the past year reported experiencing discrimination due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Lived Experiences: What LGBT+ Employees Say
Many LGBT+ individuals have shared personal accounts of discrimination, highlighting a lack of supportive workplace policies and an unsafe environment for self-expression.
Mollie, 51 (Yorkshire and the Humber): "My employer is generally supportive but lacks specific policies addressing LGBT+ discrimination. When issues arise, they are poorly handled, and the LGBT+ employee is often blamed for overreacting."
Tom, 42 (East Midlands): "I have not come out to anyone at work or where I live because I do not feel safe. The fear of my trans history being discovered has made it difficult to form friendships."
Ross, 23 (Scotland): "A customer laughed at me when I corrected them on my pronouns, then proceeded to ask invasive questions about my body. My supervisor witnessed this but dismissed my concerns as being ‘too dramatic.’"
Megan, 34 (Wales): "Hearing colleagues use ‘gay’ as an insult makes me hesitant to disclose my bisexuality. If certain individuals left my office, I might finally feel comfortable being out at work."
The Ongoing Need for Workplace Change
Despite progress in legal protections and workplace policies, these findings highlight the urgent need for stronger anti-discrimination measures, better employer training, and more inclusive work environments. Without concrete action, LGBT+ employees will continue to face exclusion, harassment, and barriers to career progression.
Mary Watson
