Thousands of pounds of taxpayers' cash in Nottinghamshire has gone towards a controversial charity, it has emerged. Research shows that Stonewall, a lobbying group and LGBTQ+ charity, received around £709,225 of taxpayers' money across the country for its Diversity Champions scheme in 2021-22, with £2,500 being paid to the scheme from cash-strapped Nottingham City Council.
Stonewall has come under scrutiny in recent years over its Diversity Champions programme, which is where organisations pay a subscription to the charity in return for guidance on issues such as gender-neutral spaces, pronouns and transgender inclusion. Stonewall has also faced criticism for receiving money from taxpayers through authorities, with many arguing that it puts the charity at an advantage to other good causes and groups.
Many members of the public are divided over Stonewall - some say the charity is important for modern society but some believe it is "extremist". Stonewall defended its Diversity Champions scheme, saying it helps workplaces to "create LGBTQ+ inclusive environments where all staff can thrive".
