New research highlights work barriers for trans people in Scotland

At LGBT Health and Wellbeing, we’re committed to promoting the health, wellbeing, and equality of LGBT adults in Scotland. Trans (including non-binary) people face unique challenges when looking for and staying in work. To understand these barriers in a Scottish context and find ways to overcome them, we conducted our Trans People and Work research.

This study is the first major Scottish report on trans people’s experiences at work and while job hunting. It uncovers key challenges and makes actionable recommendations for the government, equality bodies, and employers.

Key Findings

The research reveals significant barriers trans people face in employment. These include:

Harassment at work: Over half of survey respondents reported experiencing it, yet most did not report the incidents.

Lack of workplace inclusion: Less than half felt their workplace was trans inclusive, and fewer than 25% believed workplace policies ensured equality for trans people.

Negative mental health impacts: Experiences of exclusion and discrimination took a toll on mental health.

Unfair treatment and job prospects: Many trans people encountered disadvantages tied to their identity.

Our Chief Executive, Maruska Greenwood, emphasized the urgent need for action:

“Although there are positive experiences and examples of good practice, the overall picture shows many people face acute disadvantage due to their trans identity. These disadvantages affect job prospects, workplace experiences, and mental health.”

Recommendations for Change

The report outlines several ways to create inclusive and equitable workplaces:

• Develop and enforce clear, trans-inclusive policies.
• Provide training for managers to handle harassment effectively.
• Raise awareness about trans rights and workplace equality.
• Increase the positive visibility of trans people in all sectors.

By addressing these areas, employers can foster workplaces where trans people feel safe, valued, and empowered.

Looking Ahead

This research offers a roadmap for improving work equality and supporting the economic advancement of trans people in Scotland. We hope these findings inspire meaningful change across government, businesses, and communities.

You can download the full report here or read the executive summary for more details.