Sodexo receives Stonewall award

Sodexo has received a Silver Employer award from Stonewall for its commitment and efforts in being an LGBT+ inclusive employer. The award comes as part of Stonewall’s Workplace Equality Index and Bring Yourself to Work campaign, which highlights the importance of inclusive work environments. Every year Stonewall publishes the Index, and this is the first year that Sodexo has submitted an entry.

According to the charity’s research, 35% of LGBT+ staff hide who they are at work, while 18% have been the target of negative comments because they’re LGBT+. As part of Stonewall’s Bring Yourself To Work, the charity has awarded a series of Gold, Silver and Bronze awards to organisations in recognition of their inclusion work.

At Sodexo, the Pride Network employee group has delivered a range of initiatives to support and promote LGBT+ inclusivity across the business. This has included educational webinars for employees, Pride lanyards and the launch of the #StandByMe allyship campaign, which encourages more visible allies to come forward and support LGBT+ colleagues and the Pride network.

Raj Jones, head of diversity, equity and inclusion for Sodexo, said: “We will continue to challenge discrimination and promote a working environment in which people can be open about their sexual orientation and their gender identity should they choose to. This is not only important for an equitable society, but it is crucial that colleagues feel they belong if we are to succeed as an inclusive organisation.”

Liz Ward, director of programmes for Stonewall, added: “It’s fantastic that Sodexo has gained the Silver Employer award for its efforts and commitment to creating an inclusive work environment. We look forward to seeing and supporting the rest of their inclusion journey.”

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