An event was held in Cardiff Bay to mark Unison's Year of the LGBTQ+ Worker.

Hannah Blythyn, the Member of the Senedd for Delyn, hosted the event which saw members of the trade union speak of their experiences. 

Ms Blythyn said: "You cannot underestimate the difference being able to be yourself at work makes, both to an individual and organisations.

The event was held to mark Unison's Year of the LGBTQ+ Worker (Image: Supplied) "That's why the role of trade unions like Unison are so important in enabling supportive and inclusive workplaces in communities across the country.

"Visibility in public life and in all walks of life and workplaces is important, after all you can’t be what you can’t see, and you also need to see yourself as part of something.

"I will always be an advocate and an ally to the LGBTQ+ community, whatever role I hold or position I am in."

The event was held in Cardiff Bay (Image: Supplied) The former trade union officer also paid tribute to the trade union movement for their role in her journey.

She said: "When I was growing up, the shy teenager who struggled with her sexuality could never have imagined that I would one day have the chance to lead on the Welsh Government's work on LGBTQ+ equality.

"It was the trade union movement that built my confidence and helped give me my voice and the platform to use it.

"We have come a long way in the struggle for equality, but we must always remember that progress is not inevitable; it is won by all of us working together."

According to ILGA rankings, the UK has dropped from first place in 2015 to 17th among the top LGBT+ friendly countries.

Pat Jones from the Unison Cymru Wales LGBT+ Branch said: "Cymru/Wales LGBT+ Self Organised Group were proud to present their experiences at the event sponsored by Hannah Blythyn.

"Hannah has been a friend and a great support to all LGBT+ members in Unison and is a fantastic advocate for our community."