Government and employers must do more to tackle trans discrimination, says TUC

Commenting on today’s (Friday) report by Stonewall, which reveals high levels of discrimination against trans workers, TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said:

“Everyone deserves to feel safe at work. But today’s report from Stonewall shows that too many trans workers still face bullying, harassment and even physical violence at work.

“It’s time for all employers to bring in zero-tolerance policies on transphobic bullying and discrimination. And the government must change the law to protect workers from abuse by customers and clients as well as colleagues.”

ENDS

Notes to editors:
- Today’s findings from Stonewall echo TUC research on trans discrimination. The TUC’s 2017 report, The Cost of Being out at Work, found that:

• Nearly half of trans people (48%) have experienced bullying or harassment at work compared to just over a third (35%) of non-trans respondents.
• Almost a third (30%) of trans respondents have had their trans status disclosed against their will.
• Seven in 10  trans respondents said that their experience of workplace harassment or discrimination has a negative effect on their mental health.
• Almost 15% of LGBT+ respondents who experienced discrimination at work said that this came from a client or patient.

- Debbie Hayton, a trans teacher, blogged for the TUC about how her union helped her at work: https://www.tuc.org.uk/workplace-guidance/case-studies/debbies-story-gender-reassignment-trade-union-activist

- The Trades Union Congress (TUC) exists to make the working world a better place for everyone. We bring together more than 5.5 million working people who make up our 49 member unions. We support unions to grow and thrive, and we stand up for everyone who works for a living.

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