Osborne Clarke secures 69th spot on Stonewall’s Top 100 list for leading LGBTQ+ inclusive employers

• Osborne Clarke is committed to being an LGBTQ+ employer – one of its key principles for all its people to be themselves at work
• The Firm has jumped 44 places in the index, having ranked 113^th in 2022, and retains its silver award
• Osborne Clarke is ranked alongside top construction, legal, health, finance and education organisations who also made the annual Top 100 list of LGBTQ+ inclusive employers 

International legal practice Osborne Clarke is now ranked 69 (of 246) in Stonewall's Workplace Equality Index 2024 and sit well within the top 100 employers.

Stonewall is Europe’s largest charity for lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer (LGBTQ+) rights. Its Top 100 Employers 2024 list (Workplace Equality Index 2024) recognises exceptional employers who are committed to supporting their LGBTQ+ staff and customers.

The submission drew upon Osborne Clarke’s work in creating and maintaining a welcoming workplace where LGBTQ+ employees can bring their full selves to work. Being able to be yourself at work is one of the firm's key principles, sitting within its people philosophy.

Achieving Stonewall Top 100 status is a testament to our unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion, and the dedication of our OC Pride network.

Gemma Rowland and Jess Carter-Syme, Co-Chairs of Osborne Clarke's Pride Network 

Gemma Rowland and Jess Carter-Syme, Co-Chairs of Osborne Clarke's Pride Network said: "Achieving Stonewall Top 100 status is a testament to our unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion, and the dedication of our OC Pride network. The support from Osborne Clarke colleagues and our leadership has been instrumental in this accomplishment, demonstrating our collective dedication to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone can be their true selves. We have big plans for the future, to ensure Osborne Clarke continues to be a place where LGBTQ+ talent can thrive."

More than a third of LGBT staff (35 per cent) have hidden who they are at work for fear of discrimination. This means LGBTQ+ people often feel that they have limited options when applying for jobs – or that the work culture isn’t for them when they do land a job.

We all perform at our best when we feel comfortable bringing our full selves to work – and for LGBTQ+ people, that means not having to hide who you are or who you love, while at work. LGBTQ+ people are now more visible than ever, and this is something to celebrate, while also acknowledging there is still a lot to do to eliminate discrimination, homophobia, biphobia and transphobia.

The Workplace Equality Index draws participants from diverse industries and sectors, all of whom understand that inclusivity is the future and are leading the way in this vital change. 

Colin Macfarlane, Director of Programmes and Income at Stonewall (he/him) 

Colin Macfarlane, Director of Programmes and Income at Stonewall (he/him) said: “Implementing inclusive practices and policies is vital for employers who wish to attract and retain top LGBTQ+ talent. The Workplace Equality Index draws participants from diverse industries and sectors, all of whom understand that inclusivity is the future and are leading the way in this vital change. By championing LGBTQ+ employees, you are fostering a happy and motivated workforce and contributing to a UK where LGBTQ+ people can thrive as their true selves.”

For further information about the importance of LGBTQ+ inclusion visit the Stonewall Top 100 Employers list

Being a responsible and ethical business and employer underpins Osborne Clarke's business strategy. Osborne Clarke For Good is the firm's way of ensuring it is a good corporate citizen, a good employer and a good business.