Abingdon hotel recognised for LGBTQ+ inclusion with accolade

Courtyard by Marriott Oxford South, located in Abingdon, is the first hotel in the area to be listed on the World Rainbow Hotels platform, which highlights accommodation that welcomes LGBTQ+ travellers and meets high standards of inclusivity.

Santiago Montero, general manager of Courtyard by Marriott Oxford South, said: “We are proud to join the World Rainbow Hotels platform and to be recognised for our commitment to inclusion – alongside our Great Place to Work certification.

“It shows how much creating a welcoming environment for every guest and every team member is central to who we are as a hotel.”

Selection for the platform requires hotels to meet strict criteria, including non-discrimination policies, equal benefits for same-sex partners, and active engagement with the LGBTQ+ community.

Courtyard by Marriott Oxford South was praised for its inclusive workplace culture.

Staff feedback from the certification process highlighted that 95 per cent of employees felt the hotel was a physically safe place to work, 95 per cent said people were treated fairly regardless of gender, and 92 per cent believed people were treated fairly regardless of sexual orientation.

Mr Montero said: “Our culture is built on mutual respect, teamwork and a shared commitment to exceptional guest service.”