The LTA was one of the first of sport's national governing bodies to sign the new Charter for Action, launched by the Government to tackle homophobia in sport. Last week, the LTA announced it has also joined Stonewall's Diversity Champions programme.
The Diversity Champions programme promotes a good working environment for all existing and potential employees and helps to ensure equal treatment for those who are lesbian, gay and bisexual. The LTA joins other sporting bodies, including the Rugby Football League, Sport Wales, UK Sport, Youth Sport Trust and the Professional Footballers Association, on the Diversity Champions programme that has more than 600 major employer members.
Members of the programme benefit from business benchmarking through the Workplace Equality Index, good practice seminars around the country and exclusive entry into Stonewall's Starting Out recruitment guide that profiles gay-friendly employers. Last year, tennis topped an online poll by Stonewall as the most gay-friendly sport, with 65% of the vote.
Roger Draper, LTA chief executive, said: "We were very pleased that tennis was voted the most LGB-friendly sport last year and we look forward to building on the sport's good reputation as a diverse and inclusive sport. By supporting and developing our staff through the Diversity Champions programme, we are sending out a message that all sports should be inclusive to people who are lesbian, gay or bisexual. Joining the Diversity Champions is a strong step towards achieving this in tennis, and we're proud to join the programme."
David Shields, Stonewall director of workplace programmes added: "By joining the Diversity Champions programme, the Lawn Tennis Association has joined the list of sporting organisations who recognise that people perform better when they can be themselves. Our members are forward-thinking, 21st century employers which want to recruit, recognise, and support the very best staff, regardless of background. Good employers understand that providing support for all their staff improves their operational effectiveness."
This year's Wimbledon Championships opens on 20 June.
