E&Y has been named as a leading gay friendly employer, receiving three accolades in Stonewall's UK and Global benchmarks of top 100 public and private sector companies.

The Big Four firm was ranked 6th in Stonewall's annual Workplace Equality Index and 3rd in the new Global Best Practice Index, which was launched this year. E&Y's gay, lesbian and bisexual network, EYGLES, was also recognised as one of Stonewall 'Star Performer Network Groups'.

Liz Bingham, E&Y managing partner for people, said: 'Receiving a top 10 ranking in both the UK and global benchmarks is a tremendous achievement, particularly as the competition gets tougher every year.

'We have made real progress since first entering the awards in 2005 and are now consistently the highest listed Big Four accountancy firm in the Stonewall Index. However there is always room for improvement and we continually seek to improve the way we operate.'

KPMG came in at 76th, while PwC were 78th and Deloitte 82nd.

Harry Gaskell, E&Y managing partner for advisory and head of diversity and inclusiveness, added: 'A strong commitment to diversity and inclusiveness is not only important for our people, but is also good business in an increasingly competitive and interconnected world.

'We want to create a work environment where all our people, regardless of race, gender or sexual orientation are able to be themselves and have the potential to succeed and thrive.'