A local government partnership that supports and actively champions LGBTQ+ inclusion in Welsh communities will have a new member.

Powys County Council is to become a ‘Proud Council’ and will be first rural authority in Wales to join the partnership.

Proud Councils is a voluntary partnership of Welsh local authorities who are proactive in the inclusion of LGBTQ+ people.  It was formed in 2015 to ensure that local government across Wales is a visible leader in the field of LGBTQ+ rights and actively championing LGBTQ+ inclusion in communities across Wales.

The partnership aims to create a unified and collaborative approach to LGBTQ+ inclusion across Wales, supporting member local authorities with their commitment towards creating equal, diverse, and inclusive workplaces and communities, where the LGBTQ+ community can be free from discrimination or prejudice.

The decision to become a Proud Council was approved by Cabinet on Tuesday 28 June.

Cllr Matthew Dorrance, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for a Fairer Powys, said:

 

“I’m delighted that Powys County Council will become a Proud Council. It’s especially pleasing that the decision to join this partnership was taken during Pride Month.

 

“The decision to become a Proud Council sends a very clear signal that we are a welcoming and inclusive employer that supports and promotes diversity across our workforce while supporting the LGBTQ+ community in Powys.

 

“It is important that the council does more to support our LGBTQ+ staff and residents. Our ambition is to build a Fairer Powys, becoming a Proud Council is an important step in achieving this.”

 

The other Welsh local authorities that are Proud Councils are:

Blaenau Gwent; Bridgend; Caerphilly; Cardiff; Merthyr Tydfil; Newport; Rhondda Cynon Taf; Swansea; Torfaen.

Press Release: Powys County Council