“New Equality Issues” covered by the Act Federico Podeschi

Protected Characteristics LGBT-related Protected Characteristics Gender reassignment Marriage and civil partnership Sex Sexual orientation

Gender Reassignment The process of transitioning from one gender to another.

Marriage and Civil Partnership Marriage is defined as a 'union between a man and a woman'. Same-sex couples can have their relationships legally recognised as 'civil partnerships'.  Civil partners must be treated the same as married couples on a wide range of legal matters.

Sex A man or a woman.

Sexual Orientation Whether a person's sexual attraction is towards their own sex, the opposite sex or to both sexes.

Sexual orientation discrimination Sexual orientation discrimination includes being treated less favourably because: you are lesbian, gay, bisexual or straight people think you are lesbian, gay, bisexual or straight, or you are associated with someone who is lesbian, gay, bisexual or straight, for example a friend, relative or colleague.

When is it lawful to discriminate on the grounds of sexual orientation? Genuine Occupational Circumstances Commercial goods and services Organised religion Charities

When does the Act apply? Working and earning Learning and Training Shop, services, clubs, and associations Care and healthcare Housing and property Justice and the legal system Public services

A fundamental difference New groups are now provided the same levels of protection from discrimination across all the protected characteristics and all sectors.

Association Protecting people discriminated against because they are perceived to have, or are associated with someone who has, a protected characteristic, For example protecting children of LGBT people from discrimination.

Gender Reassignment Changing the definition of gender reassignment, by removing the requirement for medical supervision.

Private Clubs Extending protection in private clubs to sex, religion or belief, pregnancy and maternity, and gender reassignment.

Equality Duty Extending the equality duty to require the public sector to take into account the needs of all protected groups

What next? Review your current position Develop an Equality Policy and Action Plan Promote equality and good employment practice Specific guidance Equality training Deal properly with complaints and grievances Monitor progress

How can the LGBT Excellence Centre Support you? Access to the LGBT community Access to LGBT organisations Access to our membership Wales Council for LGBT People Broadcasting and promotion opportunities Training and consultancy

Getting the Rainbow Mark Free to members Ten simple assessment criteria Guidance and support Networking opportunities Sharing resources and good practice Literature , briefings, and resources

LGBT Excellence Centre 376, Newport Road Cardiff CF23 9AE Telephone: 0800 023 2201 Email: rainbow@ecwales.org.uk Website: www.ecwales.org.uk