UK energy sector sees mixed progress on LGBTQIA+ inclusion

A quarter of LGBTQIA+ employees in the UK energy sector say they are now more careful about being out at work as employers respond differently to the growing public debate around equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI), according to Pride in Energy's 2026 annual survey.

Released to mark National Inclusion Week, the survey of 232 people working across the UK energy industry paints a mixed picture of inclusion. While some organisations are strengthening their commitment to LGBTQIA+ inclusion, others are reducing support, leading to concerns about employee confidence, visibility and retention.

Fifteen per cent of respondents said their employer has backtracked on support for inclusion over the past year. Against that backdrop, 24% of LGBTQIA+ respondents said they are now more cautious about being open about their identity in the workplace.

However, the survey also found signs of progress. Sixteen per cent of all respondents believe their employer has stepped up its efforts on inclusion over the past year, while 22% of LGBTQIA+ respondents said they are now even more determined to be their authentic selves at work.

Now in its sixth year, the Pride in Energy survey provides an annual snapshot of the experiences of LGBTQIA+ people and allies working across the UK's energy industry, from field engineering to corporate services.

Read more: Culture war pushes quarter of LGBTQIA+ employees in UK energy sector back towards the closet