Raising the Bar: The Experiences of LGBTQ+ Women in the Workplace - Press Release
PRESS RELEASE
New Report Exposes the Reality for LGBTQ+ Women at Work: Invisible, Undervalued, Unheard
London, UK — Thursday 26th March — LGBT Great today announces the launch of its groundbreaking Raising the Bar: The Experience of LGBTQ+ Women in the Workplace, a new research report exploring the lived workplace experiences of LGBTQ+ women across the business community. The report reveals persistent barriers to visibility, inclusion and career progression, and offers a clear, practical roadmap for organisations committed to driving meaningful progress.
Drawing on in‑depth interviews and roundtable conversations, the report highlights how sexism, heteronormativity, gender bias, homophobia, biphobia and transphobia continue to shape the day‑to‑day experience of LGBTQ+ women. Despite progress in inclusion over recent years, many participants reported still feeling unseen, undervalued or unable to be open about their full self at work.
A central theme emerging from the study is the power of visible role models. LGBTQ+ women in leadership positions play a crucial role in building psychological safety, belonging and aspiration.
“Seeing similar LGBTQ+ women in leadership sends a powerful message that you can succeed without hiding who you are,” shared one participant.
The research also outlines the importance of intentional organisational action to support talent to succeed at work. Participants identified four critical areas for organisations to raise the bar:
- Listening to lived experience
- Creating safe and affirming spaces for connection
- Implementing inclusive workplace policies that reflect the realities of LGBTQ+ women
- Ensuring senior sponsorship and leadership accountability
In response, the report outlines five practical strategies that organisations can adopt to empower LGBTQ+ women, strengthen workplace culture and build more fairness systems for all employees.
Matt Cameron, Chief Executive of LGBT Great, commented:
“This report provides an essential evidence base for leaders who are serious about inclusion and empowerment for all parts of the community. When talent is fully supported, represented and empowered, organisations benefit from stronger culture, deeper trust and better leadership. Our hope is that Women of Impact becomes a catalyst for raising the bar for LGBTQ+ women in the workplace.”
Dr. Beth Charlton, Workplace, Research and Data Consultant, commented:
“I’d like to thank each of the participants who shared their story for their honesty and vulnerability. My hope is that by centring this report around their lived experiences, more LGBTQ+ women feel seen and empowered, and more organisations commit to building inclusive environments where they can truly thrive.”
Download the Report
lgbtgreat.com/women-of-impact — provides access to download links for the full report and the executive summary.
About LGBT Great
LGBT Great helps organisations to become authentically inclusive. Because when your people prosper, everyone thrives.
Press Contact
Matt Cameron
Chief Executive, LGBT Great
matt@lgbtgreat.com
07793362291
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