LGBTQ+

While UK law sets minimum standards to ensure that employers do not discriminate against anyone who identifies as LGBTQ+, many graduate employers recognise the benefits of recruiting a diverse workforce and actively encourage applications from LGBTQ+ people.

Finding LGBTQ+ friendly employers

Graduate Employers

Use employer websites in order to find out the different initiatives they may be involved in or support in place for LGBTQ+ staff within the workplace such as an LGBTQ+ Staff Network. Employee profiles may also be a good way to gauge how diverse the workforce is. The following resources give you an insight into LGBTQ+ friendly employers and sectors.

Internships & Work Experience

A number of other programmes, internships and insight days also exist that are specifically designed for LGBTQ+ students and graduates. Below is a list of some of the opportunities you may be interested in.

  • Gay Times Group Offers placements across the business plus a scheme supporting the writing careers of Black LGBTQ+ Youth & Queer Youth of Colour, and Trans & Non-Binary Youth as part of a multi-year programme called GAY TIMES: FUTURE NOW

Support and advice

Many industries will have an LGBTQ+ inclusion organisation or representation on the relevant professional body but the links below are a good starting point:

Although there is no legal reason you have to disclose your sexual orientation to an employer whether you identify yourself as gay, lesbian, bisexual or heterosexual, the Equality Act protects you against discrimination if you do decide to disclose. It is illegal for an employer to directly or indirectly discriminate against you on the basis of your sexual orientation throughout the application process as well as when you are in the workplace.