WIREDGOV

Ofcom has recently reviewed its relationship with Stonewall, and taken the decision to step back from our membership of the Diversity Champions programme. This is for two reasons.

First, having laid the foundations that will help us improve support for LGBTQ+ colleagues, we’re confident that we can move ahead positively, without continuing with the Diversity Champions programme.

Second, in recent months there has been significant scrutiny of some of Stonewall’s policy positions. In Ofcom’s case, we have considered whether our relationship with Stonewall poses a conflict or risk of perceived bias. Stepping back from the Diversity Champions programme, in light of this, is the right thing to do. As the communications regulator, an important part of our responsibility is to ensure we remain impartial and independent at all times.

Our commitment to supporting the rights and freedoms of LGBTQ+ people is as strong as ever. We will continue to participate in the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index, which is widely recognised as a strong benchmarking tool for employers to measure their progress on LGBTQ+ inclusion in the workplace.