LGBT+ | Worker wins thousands after bosses' gay taunts

The most basic function of HR is to ensure that workers are safe, and able to succeed in their role without fear of being attacked or persecuted for their personal beliefs or lifestyles. For those who choose to attack others, the consequences should be severe.

And whilst some may argue that extolling the virtues of equality in the professional world to those within the field of HR is much like teaching your grandmother to suck eggs, it’s important to remember that workers suffer every day because the harsh reality is that such issues are still very much prevalent in many workplaces.

This week, it was revealed that an Irish restaurant has been ordered to pay £17,000 in compensation to one individual after the worker was subjected to a consistent barrage of hatred after revealing his sexual preference.

Read more from us

‘Hidden epidemic' | 7 in 10 LGBT+ employees report being sexually harassed at work

The worker, who has remained anonymous, brought the case to the Workplace Relations Committee in the Republic of Ireland, and gave numerous examples of the hate he experienced. He claimed that the company’s two directors made frequent homophobic comments both in and out of work, including the use of hateful slurs.