The rainbow flag at County Hall

Council celebrates Stonewall success

For the second year running Northumberland County Council has been listed in the Top 100 Employers in the country for its commitment to equality and diversity by Stonewall, the national LGBT (lesbian, gay and bisexual and transgender) charity. 

Now at number 34 in the ranking, climbing from 86 last year, the results affirmed the  council’s commitment to equality and diversity within the organisation and the hard work carried out over the previous 12 months.

The Stonewall Workplace Equality Index celebrates those companies which are leading the way in making workplaces more inclusive. The index is the annual audit of workplace culture for lesbian, gay, bi and trans (LGBT+) staff. 

Patrick Price, Northumberland County Council Lead Manager for Equality, Diversity & Inclusion said: “We are absolutely delighted and very proud to be ranked 34th in the Stonewall top 100 Employers Workplace Equality Index.

“This is testament to the hard work carried out across the council.  Our employees are at the heart of everything we do and we understand the importance of an inclusive culture.”

Kelly Angus, Executive Director of HR/OD & Deputy Chief Executive of Northumberland County Council said: “We take great pride in being an inclusive organisation and are committed to tackling inequality of any kind. It is wonderful to see we are in good company, and are celebrated with the best in the country. 

“We strive to be an employer of choice and have supported local community events such as Northumberland Pride and the Mela, which promotes diversity and growth of all cultures.”

Cllr Nick Oliver, cabinet member for Corporate Services at the council said: “This is a fantastic result for the council.  Moving up to 34th place perfectly demonstrates the hard work over in recent months. I am really proud of the team and what they have achieved.”

Cllr Veronica Jones, cabinet member for Adult Wellbeing and Health at the council said: “Over the last year everyone has been working hard to improve LGBT+ equality.  This is a perfect thank you to all our staff who have helped to make improvements and climb up the rankings.”

Throughout February the council will be showing support of LGBT History month by flying the rainbow flag at County Hall and Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service headquarters at West Hartford.
 
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