The comparative inclusion and acceptance of LGBT+ people in the UK construction industry

The Equality Act of 2010 forbids discrimination based on gender and sexual identity; however, many lesbians, gay, bisexual, transgender, nonbinary and people with gender expressions outside traditional norms (LGBT+) working in the UK construction industry experience hostility in the workplace. There has been a lack of research that focuses on LGBT+ professionals in construction, so this study investigates the topic and looks at how acceptance varies across different groups under the LGBT+ umbrella. The research uses thematic analysis to probe in depth the experience of 11 LGBT+ interviewees working in the UK construction sector. The study finds that majority of the LGBT+ employees have experienced some prejudice, each group in a unique way. Bisexual, trans and nonbinary people experience more discrimination than Lesbian and Gay people. Acceptance depends on workplace context. The respondents perceive construction sites more linked to harassment, discrimination and inappropriate comments toward the LGBT+ community than office environments. The visibility of senior LGBT+ employees and leadership of both LGBT+ and non-LGBT+ senior management are important for inclusion in organisations and for supporting junior LGBT+ employees. This study contributes to understanding of LGBT+ acceptance and raises issues that need to be addressed in the industry, challenging heteronormative culture.