Thoughtworks Makes Stonewall’s 2019 Workplace Equality Index Top 100
Global software consultancy, Thoughtworks is proud to be included for the first time in Stonewall’s 2019 Top 100 Employers list, having jumped a significant 47 places since last year, and a full 215 places since participating for the first time in 2015. The progress is the result of a collective effort from Thoughtworkers, community organisations and other allies across the globe.
Thoughtworks actively strives to make both the company and the technology industry more reflective of the society it serves. Thoughtworks has always believed their ability to impact the world goes beyond delivering software excellence for clients, and today’s recognition amplifies their voice within the tech industry and beyond. The journey to be recognised as a Top 100 employer began several years ago. Along the way Thoughtworks reached out to Stonewall for guidance and recommendations, implemented new programs and policies, all the while staying true to their culture - flat and non-hierarchical.
Thoughtworks’ commitment to driving change is demonstrated through strong internal and external initiatives such as their Diversity and Inclusion group, ‘Intertwined’, which exists to de-silo persity through embracing intersectionality and helping people be allies for one another. Additionally, they support various UK-wide communities and share their knowledge so that together positive progress can be made.
Now in its 15th Year, the Top 100 list, created by lesbian, gay, bi and trans (LGBT) equality charity Stonewall, is compiled from submissions to the Workplace Equality Index, a powerful benchmarking tool used by employers to assess their achievements on LGBT equality in the workplace.
Ruth Harrison Managing Director of Thoughtworks UK commented: “We are proud to be recognised by Stonewall, whose work we admire. More than just a technology company, Thoughtworks is a people business; a community of passionate inpiduals that are committed to building a better, more inclusive society and – through our work – to become advocates for sustainable, positive social change. This award from Stonewall recognises the progress we have made as forward-thinking change agents and we will continue to be a proactive agent of positive social change in the world.”
Darren Towers, Stonewall’s Executive Director said: ‘Thoughtworks and all those who have made this year’s Top 100 Employers list are making a huge difference to workplaces, services and communities across the UK. LGBT-inclusive employers play a crucial role in changing society by using their power and influence to protect and support LGBT people. More than a third of LGBT staff (35 per cent) still hide their identity at work for fear of discrimination; that has an impact on productivity, wellbeing and more and shows we still have lots to do. However, with organisations like Thoughtworks displaying such a strong commitment to LGBT equality, we are one step closer to creating a world where all lesbian, gay, bi and trans employees are welcomed and accepted without exception.
About Stonewall
Stonewall is Britain’s leading charity for lesbian, gay, bi and trans equality, working to create a world where every single person can be accepted without exception. It was founded in 1989 by a small group of people who wanted to break down barriers to equality. Stonewall continues to campaign and lobby government to change laws to ensure everyone, everywhere, is free to be themselves.
Stonewall works in partnership with a growing network of more than 760 organisations to help create real change for the better. It campaigns to eliminate homophobia, biphobia and transphobia in communities, and empowers LGBT people and their allies to be role models wherever they live, work, study, shop, socialise or pray.
To get involved visit us at www.stonewall.org.uk Registered charity number 1101255