LGBT Staff Forum

Homophobia … what is it exactly? Defined as fear of, aversion to, or discrimination against homosexuality or homosexuals, the reasons for these negative feelings are diverse – Lack of first hand experience of dealing with gay people. Anxiety or insecurity about one’s own sexuality or position in society. Cultural or religious pressure. In psychological terms homophobia is often classed with other intolerant prejudicial attitudes such as racism and sexism. Essentially, it is the denial of the rights of others to pursue meaning and fulfilment in their lives as they see fit.

UK National figures In the UK currently roughly 1 in 16 people identify as LGBT. Evidence shows in the UK that even with current legal protections at least 20% of LGBT people directly experience bullying and harassment at work solely due to their LGBT status. We should consider this does not take into account the patients experience - whether directly experiencing homo/bi/trans-phobia or witnessing it in a hospital setting!

Brighton figures In Brighton currently 1 in 6 people identify as LGBT. A recent survey of LGBT staff at BSUH discovered over 40% had directly experienced or witnessed firsthand homophobia. Currently there are no figures telling us how this translates to the patient’s experience here.

Worldwide There are no figures for the percentage of LGBT people worldwide. Though in over 80 countries it is a criminal offence just to be gay. In seven of those countries being gay can lead to the death sentence. In all of these countries religious grounds are seen to be the reason for justifying such barbaric laws. Thankfully, in the UK it is illegal to use religion to justify homophobia.

A love that dare not squeak it’s name! Roy and Silo, gay chinstrap penguins in New York City’s Central Park Zoo!

The History of LGBT rights in England 1290 – First mention in English common law of a punishment for homosexuality – The first specific anti-homosexual act – “Gross Indecency” – also known as the “Blackmailer’s Charter” – Appointment of Wolfenden Committee to consider homosexual offences – Wolfenden Report published – Decriminalisation of homosexual acts between two men over the age of 21 and “in private” – First Pride march in London – Clause 28 introduced allowing Section 28 – preventing the “Promotion of Homosexuality” - to come into force – Direct action group Outrage! set up – House of Commons voted to reduce gay age of consent from 21 to – Reduction of Age of Consent to 16. Section 28 repealed – Government lifts ban on lesbian and gay men serving in the armed forces – Age of consent reduced to – Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) Regulations become law First civil partnerships take place. Equality Bill amended to include clause making it illegal to discriminate in the provision of goods and services – New offence of incitement to homophobic hatred in the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act. Equality Act 2010 which included the extension of the single public Equality Duty.

The history of the LGBT Forum at BSUH The LGBT Forum in BSUH was set up in In January 2010 the Board signed a Memorandum of Understanding between the Forum and BSUH setting out the Forum’s work remit and the support it can expect from the Trust. From mid-2010 the Forum has presented at every corporate staff induction.

“The invisible minority” Most LGBT staff have a choice whether or not to disclose their sexual identity to other staff or to patients. In a recent survey it was found that 40% of LGBT staff are not comfortable being “out” to all in the workplace. How does this affect their working practice? What does it tell us about their working environment that they are not comfortable discussing personal matters with their peers?

And finally, the Gay Agenda….