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14th June 2023
01:06pm BST
A new survey by Indeed has found that over half (53%) of Irish workers who identify as LGBTQ+ feel discriminated against at work.
Over 1000 Irish workers were surveyed for the study, with over half of respondents coming from the LGBTQIA+ community.
The survey also highlighted the prevalence of more covert discrimination, with 60% of participants reporting that they had experienced micro-aggressions in the workplace due to their LGBTQIA+ identity.
This emphasises the need for ongoing education and awareness on various forms of biases and discrimination in the workplace.
However, 82% expressed confidence that action would be taken if they reported discrimination they faced to their employers.
Among the 500 survey participants who identified as LGBTQIA+, 92% stated they were 'out' at work.
Of this group, 34% were out to everyone they worked with, while 57% disclosed this only to those they trusted at work.
Those working in law and transport were most likely to be out to their colleagues.
For those who were not out at work, specific reasons cited included: personal preference or a desire to keep that part of their identity private (49%), fear of discrimination (13%), the opportunity not having arisen to discuss it (13%), and fear of judgment from peers (10%).
When asked about measures that would make them feel more supported at work, LGTBQ+ respondents emphasised the importance of a strong company policy on anti-bullying or discrimination (50%).
An open and inclusive team that values people from different backgrounds (43%) and company-provided training on inclusiveness and LGBTQIA+ issues for all staff (42%), an employee group for LGBTQIA+ community members and allies (35%), and a company that actively celebrates events such as Pride (33%) were also cited.
Tam Hanlon, Diversity Equity Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB+) Manager at Indeed said: "These survey results underscore the progress that is yet to be made in many workplaces to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for LGBTQIA+ employees.
"It’s important that organisations not only celebrate moments like Pride month, but also take measures year round to support this community, including implementing anti-discrimination policies, fostering open-minded and inclusive teams, and educating staff on things like unconscious bias.
"By prioritising inclusivity, employers can ensure that every employee feels valued, respected, and safe.
"On a positive note, seeing such a high proportion of people feeling comfortable coming out to their colleagues demonstrates changing attitudes and progress towards people feeling like they can be themselves at work, which is vital for fostering a sense of belonging and promoting authentic self-expression."
According to the research, 65% of all 1000 workers surveyed reported that their employers celebrate Pride.
When asked how they would like their companies to celebrate Pride, respondents listed displaying flags and decorations at the office and in branding (41%), a donation to LGBTQIA+ causes (37%), hosting staff events to celebrate (33%), highlighting LGBTQIA+ stories (30%) and granting a day off to commemorate the occasion (28%).
Of particular significance is the level of satisfaction with employers' support for the LGBTQIA+ community - 62% of respondents expressing satisfaction overall.
Notably, satisfaction among LGBTQIA+ individuals themselves soared to 81%, underscoring the crucial role that support and inclusion play for this community.
