Linda Stewart qualified as a solicitor in 1999. She has specialised in employment law for over 16 years and became head of the employment team at Simpson Millar LLP in 2011. Linda deals with all aspects of employment law, but her specialism lies in gender pay and discrimination, particularly sex and sexual orientation discrimination. She champions diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and provides support, advice and training to forward-thinking employers to help them get the most out of their staff. Linda’s employer, Simpson Millar, is committed to creating an inclusive culture and greatly values the diversity of its employees.
DIVA: As an out senior lesbian in the legal profession, what would you say are the common issues lesbians and bi women face in the workplace today?
LINDA STEWART: In general, it’s the assumptions that people make within the workplace. The underlying heterosexism which runs through most working environments creates an atmosphere and a culture that influences language, behaviour and policy. There’s a lack of awareness around how managers behave in front of staff which influences decisions around policy, pay and career development.