The TUC is aiming to challenge homophobic behaviour in the workplace with a new guide, which provides legal tips for combating harassment.

The LGBT Equality at Work booklet offers guidance on a range of issues, from challenging unacceptable behaviour and language, to making sure that LGBT workers who are posted to hostile countries are fully protected by their employers.

The guide is published just weeks after the British Social Attitudes Survey revealed that despite steady progress in the social acceptance of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, a significant minority of the British population remains prejudiced.

The TUC hopes the guide will help unions to make workplaces more accepting places for LGBT workers.

TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said: ‘There has been enormous progress in society’s readiness to welcome LGBT people as equal fellow citizens.

‘However, many LGBT people still encounter prejudice at the workplace and it essential that homophobia is challenged where and when it happens.’