Partner Article

Sunderland firm recognised for inclusion

A Sunderland business has been ranked in the top 20 organisations in Britain for its inclusion policies for lesbian and gay staff. Gentoo Group came 14th in the Stonewall 2008 Workplace Equality Index, a national exercise which showcases Britain’s top employers for lesbian and gay staff. The Group was highest ranked employer in the North East.

Julie Kelly, assistant chief executive for Gentoo Group, said: “We see the value of ensuring that our organisation is fully inclusive. This isn’t just about equality. It’s about listening and responding to the needs of our staff and customers, and valuing the diversity which individuals bring to our organisation.”

Gentoo Group gained a score of 88%, well above the average of 66.5% across all 240 entrants, in 2007 the organisation was ranked 145th out of 201 entrants - making it the second most improved entry in 2008.

David Shields, Stonewall’s Director of Workplace Programmes, said: “Gentoo Group has made significant improvements over the course of the year - testimony to what can be achieved by a strong diversity team working closely with its staff network groups, and supported in their work from the very top levels of their organisation.”

One of the initiatives Gentoo gained particular praise for was the variety of employee engagement methods it uses, which effectively raise awareness of issues around sexual orientation among both gay and straight staff.

For more information about equality and diversity at Gentoo Group, email equalityanddiversity@gentoogroup.com or call 0191 525 5000.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .