Police and Fire Service in LGBT index

CHESHIRE Fire and Rescue Service and their Police counterparts have both made it into Stonewall’s annual list of the UK’s top 100 lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) friendly employers.
The Fire Service ranked in 25th, placing it in the top quarter of organisations, increasing its ranking by 20 places from last year, the first time it had appeared in the top 100 of the Workplace Equality Index.
Deputy Chair of the Fire Authority, Cllr Stef Nelson said: “Making the Top100 for a second year is something we are incredibly proud of. It demonstrates that the culture of the fire and rescue service is changing for the better. We are totally committed to getting the most out of every single member of staff and developing an inclusive working environment where our staff feel valued regardless of their background or sexual orientation.”
Cheshire Constabulary was placed in 41st overall in the index out of nearly 400 entries from organisations across the country.
Assistant Chief Constable Ruth Purdie said: “The fact that Cheshire Constabulary has not only remained on the Stonewall Top 100 Employers List, but also improved it?s position by 18 places in what was an exceptionally competitive year of submissions and against a backdrop of public sector austerity is a positive outcome.
“Our success shows that we are changing the workplace for the better for all staff, regardless of sexual orientation, as we have created an environment that is fair and inclusive.
“Our commitment to equality demonstrates that we are providing a quality service both to the public we serve, and throughout the organisation as a whole, in our dealings with colleagues and fellow professionals.”
Stonewall is a national organisation that works to achieve equality for lesbians, gay men and bisexual people. The Index has been running for ten years and is seen as the definitive benchmark for gay-friendly employers.
The Workplace Equality Index provides an audit for workplace culture and ranks the top employers for LGBT staff through a 25-question evidenced assessment, focussed on the approach and mechanisms for supporting LGBT employees, customers and communities.