WHAT do you do when you see someone at work being bullied for being gay?

Employers want to encourage people to be themselves and even have a laugh at work. 

It can bring teams together and if people enjoy being at work, they’re more likely to perform. 

But unchecked office banter can descend into stereotyping and bullying, and while racism and sexism may be off limits to all but the most hardened bigot, jokes about sexual orientation are still considered, by some, to be fair game.

Stonewall estimates that one in five lesbian and gay people have experienced bullying at work because of their sexual orientation. 

Bullying includes physical and verbal abuse, suggestive remarks, name-calling, mimicry, offensive gestures or ostracising.

As an employer, it is your duty to protect all employees from this bullying.  To do this:

• Have zero-tolerance of homophobic banter, whether or not you think it is offending anyone.
• Train people in diversity and inclusion.
• Take complaints seriously and tackle problems quickly.

For more information visit www.inclusiveemployers.co.uk