LGBT+ workers are underrepresented in trade unions, making the movement “weaker for it,” conference-goers heard today.

Moving a motion on taking action for better opportunities, Hannah Norman of Prospect said LGBT+ workers are underrepresented across the movement, from reps, negotiators and leaders to decision makers. 

“And the gap widens even further for those who face multiple forms of discrimination,” she said.

“At the same time, too many LGBT+ workers continue to experience discrimination at work. That doesn’t just harm individuals, it creates real structural barriers to getting involved in our unions.

“It means talented activists don’t step forward or don’t get involved. And our movement is weaker for it.”

Ms Norman said unions must also “be honest about what under-representation means in practice.”

She said: “It means voices are missed when decisions are made, when strategies are shaped and negotiations are declared. 

“When priorities are set, the full reality of the LGBT+ workers’ experience is not always in the room. When representation is missing, outcomes are affected.”