- Conference
- 2007 National Disabled Members' Conference
- Date
- 5 July 2007
- Decision
- Carried
This Conference is aware of the complexities surrounding disclosure of disabilities and recognises the similarities that lgbt people must face when disclosing their sexual orientation or gender identity particularly if they are not ‘out’. Conference believes that disabled Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) people face homophobia, biphobia and transphobia and affirms the need for disabled Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) members to caucus. However, Conference is concerned that some disabled Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) may not participate for fear that their sexual orientation or gender identity may become known (i.e. they become “Outed”) or that they are “outed” because of a lack of confidentiality and a lack of understanding about procedures and arrangements.
Conference therefore believes that Disabled LGBT issues should be handled with sensitivity and that the NDMC in consultation with the Disabled LGBT Caucus and the NLGBTC should produce guidance for:
1.Arrangements for Disabled LGBT Caucus which ensure that any member who wishes to participate would not be ‘outed’.
2.Procedures put in place for dealing with incidents where members have been “outed”
3.Confidentiality procedures for dealing with delegations to LGBT events
4.Support available to LGBT members who have been “Outed”
5.Conferences and regions about safe space for disabled and LGBT members