Waltham Forest Council has been named one of the best places to work for lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender people.

The authority was placed 63rd on gay rights charity Stonewall’s 2013 list of the 100 best employers of gay staff.

The ranking beats last year’s placing of 92 and means the council is one of just four London local authorities to feature in the top 100, which Stonewall defines as a list of employers working to create a safe and inclusive environment for employees, customers and stakeholders.

Councillor Mark Rusling, cabinet member for economic development and corporate resources, said: “I am extremely pleased with the result this year, especially as it is the highest we have ever been ranked in the seven years that the council has entered the index.

“It is recognition of our continued commitment to creating a supportive, open and inclusive environment for all our staff and residents as well as broader recognition for the borough.

“Waltham Forest wants to attract and retain the best talent regardless of background or sexual orientation, and it’s achievements like this that contribute to being a good employer.”

Cllr Richard Sweden, the borough’s first openly gay mayor, celebrated the news at a reception held in the Mayor’s Parlour with other councillors and officers on Monday.

The reception also formally launched LGBT History Month throughout February, which will be marked with a number of council-organised events.