15 July 2016

Three quarters of gay and bi women aren’t out at work

After research revealed that many lesbian and bisexual women were concealing their sexual identity at work, experts have warned of a “double glass ceiling” effect, according to a report from the Chartered Institute for Professional Development.

A survey of over 1,200 women who identified as gay or bi revealed that 73% weren’t out to all of their colleagues, while 50% weren’t out to anyone except their closest colleagues. Two thirds reported a “negative experience” relating to their sexuality in the workplace.

Sarah Garrett, founder of the RBS British LGBT Awards, commented on the research, saying “in many sectors such as finance and construction senior women are not visible – let alone senior gay women”.

“There is a double glass ceiling – a feeling that it’s hard for women anyway and once you’ve battled to overcome one set of barriers you are less likely to come out.”

90% of respondents said that more visible lesbian and bisexual women in senior roles would be helpful.

Speaking of the negative experiences gay and bi women face, Garret suggested that gay women face a range of barriers in the workplace.

“Those who are out at work have had negative experiences including discrimination, bullying and reduced opportunities to progress compared to male counterparts”.

“The findings are worrying and show that a lot of work remains to be done to change attitudes and promote acceptance”.

The British LGBT Awards are now set to launch a campaign to increase the visibility of gay and bi women.

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