A UK-based survey has revealed that half of LGBTQ+ employees are facing “shockingly high levels” of bullying and harassment at work. Conducted by the TUC, the survey of 1,000 LGBTQ+ individuals across the UK found that one in five lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people have experienced verbal abuse in their workplace over the past five years.
More than a quarter of respondents reported encountering homophobic, biphobic, or transphobic remarks either aimed at them or made within their presence. Disturbingly, one in 20 respondents said they had been subjected to physical violence, threats, or intimidation due to their sexual orientation.
The union organisation noted that it’s unsurprising that nearly three in ten LGBTQ+ individuals in the UK choose to keep their sexual orientation private at work to avoid hostility.
The survey also highlighted that younger LGBTQ+ workers in the UK, particularly those aged between 18 and 24, are enduring even higher levels of discrimination compared to their older counterparts.
Paul Nowak, the TUC’s general secretary, commented on the findings, stating, “This new report shines a light on the extent of discrimination LGBTQ+ workers face in our workplaces. LGBTQ+ people should be safe and supported at work, but instead, they’re experiencing shockingly high levels of bullying and harassment – including assault.”
Nowak stressed the need for cultural change in workplaces across the UK, adding, “No one should think that a colleague being LGBTQ+ makes it acceptable to make discriminatory comments or ask inappropriate questions—let alone commit acts of assault.”
He further urged the UK government to amend the law, asserting that employers, not victims, should be responsible for preventing harassment.
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