Wrexham Glyndwr University has risen 175 places in the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index.

The Stonewall index is used both by the charity and by Wrexham Glyndwr University to assess the progress the university is making towards LGBT+ inclusion in the workplace. The university’s HR team first submitted evidence to Stonewall in 2017, and used the responses to assess where improvements needed to be made.

Among changes which have been made are a dedicated LGBT+ Staff Network, a series of updated policies which use gender-neutral language and which make specific reference to gender identity/expression and trans identity, and a series of events – both internal and external – where the university’s work on LGBT+ issues have been highlighted.

Glyndwr’s HR Business Partner for Development and Diversity, Alison Bloomfield, said: “From the development of our transitioning at work policy, to the simple act of providing more than 150 allies with rainbow lanyards they can wear to show their support, we are working to make our university a more LGBT+ inclusive environment.

“The university has an established LGBT+ Staff Network, where staff can access dedicated, personal and confidential support. We are forging links with other organisations across our region – and we will be working alongside them to help develop our support further.

“We are very pleased to have the work we have undertaken recognised by Stonewall by our ranking in this year’s index – and we intend to keep building upon it in the months and years to come.”

Chair of the LGBT+ Staff Network, James Griffiths, added: “I’m thrilled that Glyndwr University has risen in the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index as a result of the hard work that Glyndwr LGBT+ Staff Network have undertaken within the last 12 months.

“We are now eager to go forward and work to help Glyndwr University in becoming a champion as an inclusive and welcoming environment for all LGBT+ staff, students and visitors.

“We hope to continue to develop and promote the work we are doing within the university and within the wider community”

Pictured:  Alison Bloomfield and James Griffiths