UK LGBTQ+ Workers Still Feel Pressured to ‘Be Less Gay,’
A recent report by Pride in Leadership reveals that LGBTQ+ professionals in the UK continue to face significant pressures to suppress their identities in the workplace. The survey, which included 1,000 LGBTQ+ individuals, found that 85% reported encountering career barriers due to their sexual or gender identity. Many respondents admitted to altering their appearance, voice, or behavior to avoid discrimination or to be taken seriously.
The report also highlighted that over half of the participants allowed concerns over discrimination to shape their career choices, with 34% stating that their identity negatively impacted their early education. These findings suggest that the pressure to conform begins early and continues into professional life.
Matt Haworth, co-founder of Pride in Leadership, shared his personal experiences of homophobia and professional challenges, emphasising the need for equal opportunity regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. He stated, “From homophobia in meetings to being invited on trade missions to a country where I could be sentenced to death just for being me… the playing field is far from level.”
The report calls for stronger legal protections and urges employers to address discrimination, including under the guise of workplace “banter.” Despite legal protections under the UK’s Equality Act 2010, workplace discrimination persists.
According to the 2021 Census, approximately 1.5 million people in England and Wales identify as LGBTQ+. Advocates stress the importance of creating inclusive work environments where individuals can express their identities without fear of discrimination.
The findings underscore the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ professionals in the UK and the need for continued efforts to promote inclusivity and equality in the workplace.
