Non-binary people's experiences in Scotland: evidence review

Fair Work and Business

Existing research demonstrates that non-binary and trans people are sometimes prevented from accessing employment due to their gender identity.

Barriers to accessing employment include feeling unable to apply to jobs because of fears of prejudice, application forms excluding non-binary identities, difficulties obtaining references, proof of qualification matching gender and new name, lack of awareness and transphobia from interview panel members and feeling unable to be open about trans identity when applying for jobs^[32]. “Supporting Trans Employees in the Workplace”^[33] found that barriers and challenges to the inclusion of trans employees include lack of knowledge by employers and fellow employees, insufficient line manager confidence, stigma, practical considerations (e.g. toilet facilities and uniforms), lack of support and lack of flexible workplace policies.

When non-binary and trans people are in employment, evidence shows that they can still face issues around inclusivity. ‘Inclusion at Work’, found that at every stage of employment, many trans people face discrimination, bullying, harassment, prejudiced views, and stereotyping, including during recruitment processes. Supporting this view, Scottish Trans Report^[34] ‘Non-Binary People’s Experiences in the UK’, found that non-binary people worried that their gender identity would not be respected at work (90%), that it would make their work environment more difficult (88%) and that it would impact on their career progression (55%). A majority (80%) of non-binary people in a survey of 700 British Trans People reported experiencing transphobia from colleagues, compared to 73% of trans men and trans women^[35].

Similarly, Beauregard et al, found that the voices of trans and non-binary workers are particularly under-represented in the workforce^[36]. Stonewall Scotland’s “LGBT in Scotland - Work Report”^[37], reported that more than half of trans people (58%) have deliberately hidden or disguised their identity at work for fear of discrimination. Additionally, 39% of trans employees in this study reported negative comments or conduct from colleagues.

The above research demonstrates that a lack of understanding, and discrimination are key issues for non-binary people in the workplace and this can have a negative impact on entering the workforce and career progression. However, much of the existing research focusses on trans people, and although there may be similarities in experience, more information about non-binary people’s experiences specifically in the workforce is required.