Proud Employers is a programme run by Stonewall UK, a national human rights charity dedicated LGBTQIA+ equality.  Formerly known as the Workplace Equality Index (WEI), the Proud Employers programme is designed to support organisations in creating truly LGBTQIA+ inclusive workplaces, by looking at organisational practices for staff across eight areas.

Proud Employers at London Met

London Met is dedicated to ensuring equal opportunities for all, including those who identify as lesbian, gay, bi, trans, queer or another sexual minority. We are committed to participating in Proud Employers  and applied for recognition in July 2026.  

Our commitment to LGBTQIA+ inclusion extends across the whole University. The LGBTQIA+ Staff Network, led by Sebastian Cordoba and Brian Tutt, is exceptionally active, hosting regular events and playing a central role in advising and influencing EEDI governance and strategy.  

The Rainbow Room is a physical beacon to the university’s commitment to championing LGBTQIA+ inclusion. It was conceived and realised by Donna Jones (Head of Subject) to provide a safe inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ staff, students, and community partners to meet, socialise and organise. Donna has actively facilitated LGBTQIA+ community partnerships, who use the Rainbow Room to host events for London Met and the wider Islington community. To date, the Rainbow Room remains unique in UK higher education in providing a safe space for LGBTQIA+ communities.  

The Gender and Sexual Diversity Research Group (GSDRG), led by Sebastian Cordoba, Wendy Sloane, James Hunting, and Andrew Moran, is an interdisciplinary research hub focused on gender and sexual diversity. With 23 active members, it hosts regular events, including book launches, discussions, and community collaborations.