The Royal Air Force has been named one of the most inclusive employers in Britain by lesbian, gay, bi and trans equality charity Stonewall in its Top 100 Employers list for 2019.
This year’s Top 100 was the largest ever with 445 employers entering, demonstrating their commitment to LGBT workplace inclusion.
“Delighted to see the RAF listed as a Stonewall Top 100 employer for 2019. An inclusive culture and a positive living and working environment are essential if we are to recruit and retain the best talent in the country, so this is a hugely positive milestone. Thanks go to the RAF LGBT+ Network, our Advocates and our unit and policy teams for all their hard work in securing this encouraging result.”
Air Commodore Clare Walton
The RAF LGBT+ Advocate
Air Marshal Wigston currently serves as DCom Cap and AMP for the Royal Air Force, he was very proud that the Royal Air Force are part of the top 100.
“As the Royal Air Force’s Diversity and Inclusion Champion, I am delighted we have been recognised as a Stonewall Top 100 employer for 2019. This listing is a hugely positive milestone which reflects our determination to make sure everybody and anybody can feel valued and included for who they are and what they bring to the Royal Air Force. We are proud to be an organisation that attracts and nurtures the best talent in the country, recognising the energy, value and effectiveness a truly diverse and inclusive workforce brings to any organisation.”
Air Marshal Mike Wigston
DCom Cap and AMP
As part of the Top 100, Stonewall collects more than 92,000 anonymous responses from employees on their experience of Britain’s workplace culture and diversity. An overwhelming 93 per cent of non-LGBT employees who responded to the survey, say they understand why their employer is committed to LGBT equality.
"The Royal Air Force and all those who have made this year’s Top 100 Employers list are making a huge difference to workplaces, services and communities across the UK. LGBT-inclusive employers play a crucial role in changing society by using their power and influence to protect and support LGBT people. More than a third of LGBT staff (35 per cent) still hide their identity at work for fear of discrimination; that has an impact on productivity, wellbeing and more; this shows we still have lots to do. However, with organisations like the Royal Air Force displaying such a strong commitment to LGBT equality, we are one step closer to creating a world where all lesbian, gay, bi and trans employees are welcomed and accepted without exception."
Darren Towers
Stonewall’s Executive Director