- Conference
- 2006 National LGBT Conference
- Date
- 24 July 2006
- Decision
- Carried
Conference notes that Resolution 92, passed at the UNISON National Delegate Conference 2006, called for a review of research that currently means the National Blood Service bans Gay or Bisexual men from donating blood. Conference further notes that the resolution also asks that UNISON has effective input into any National Blood Service review of the language and literature used in the Donor Screening Policy.
Conference notes the work undertaken by the National LGBT Committee in this area and that work can now begin on reviewing the research that purports to support the current ban on blood donation for men who have sex with men even if they use condoms and/or know they are HIV negative.
Conference is saddened by lack of discussion at the National Delegate Conference 2006 around Resolution 92 regarding the ban on blood donation for men who have sex with men. Conference is further saddened by the curtailing of debate around Resolution 92 and feels this issue needed to be outlined to the National Delegate Conference to highlight the effects of the ban on blood donation and the inappropriate methods and language used to elicit blood donations.
Conference notes that there still may be a similar ban in place in respect of organ donation and the donation of bone marrow from some amongst our LGBT members. Conference requires that the National LGBT Committee examine this aspect too and include it in the work around the review of research into the ban on such donations.
Conference requires the National LGBT Committee to ensure that the commitment remains to review the research regarding the ban on blood, bone marrow and organ donation. Conference further requires the National LGBT Committee to have an effective input into the review of any language and literature used by the National Blood Service. Conference additionally requires the National LGBT Committee to report back on any progress in these campaign areas.