MI5 named employer of the year by Stonewall

22 Jan 2016 01:26 PM

MI5 has achieved 1st place in the annual Stonewall Workplace Equality Index.

The index measures an organisation's work to tackle discrimination and create an inclusive workplace for lesbian, gay, bi and trans people.

MI5 Director General Andrew Parker commented:

"Much of MI5's work keeping the country safe goes on by necessity out of view. So I'm delighted we can be publicly recognised as such an inclusive and welcoming place to work.

"MI5's success in protecting the country depends on our staff's commitment to the mission and to our enduring values of teamwork, professionalism and innovation. People can only give the best they can give when they feel supported, valued, and treated with respect by their colleagues.

"Diversity is vital for MI5, not just because it's right that we represent the communities we serve, but because we rely on the skills of the most talented people whoever they are, and wherever they may be.

"This accolade from Stonewall is a great acknowledgement of continued progress we have made over recent years in ensuring we draw on the widest possible pool of talent in our vital work."

More information on the Workplace Equality Index is available at the Stonewall website.