The Vale of Glamorgan Council has been named one of the UK's Top 100 Inclusive Employers by Stonewall for the first time.

Stonewall, Europe's largest LGBTQ+ rights charity, releases this annual list to acknowledge employers that strongly support both their LGBTQ+ employees and customers.

The council's presence demonstrates its fulfilment of this commitment, offering staff the freedom to be themselves at work.

This makes the council one of just two councils in Wales that made the list and one of seven in the UK.

The council has been actively promoting an inclusive working environment over the past year, championing its LGBTQ+ staff, supporting pride events and endorsing its LGBTQ+ staff network, GLAM.

In a statement, Cllr Lis Burnett, leader of the Vale of Glamorgan Council, said: "No one should have to hide who they are or who they love whilst at work, and the challenges that LGBTQ+ people face at work can affect us all.

"As a council we have made strong progress to ensure that the Vale is a safe and welcoming environment for people to both live and work."

Cllr Burnett added: "I am so proud to lead a council that is an inclusive and diverse organisation that champions members of the LGBTQ+ community and I am delighted to find out we have made Stonewall’s Top 100 Inclusive Employers list.

"There is more to do, and we are committed to continuing this work for both our colleagues and our residents, but for now, it’s time to celebrate."

Stonewall's director of programmes and income, Colin Macfarlane, added: "Implementing inclusive practices and policies is vital for employers who wish to attract and retain top LGBTQ+ talent.

"By championing LGBTQ+ employees, you are fostering a happy and motivated workforce and contributing to a UK where LGBTQ+ people can thrive as their true selves."