- Conference
- 2013 National LGBT Conference
- Date
- 2 August 2013
- Decision
- Carried
Conference acknowledges the excellent work already undertaken by the National Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Committee to raise the awareness of issues faced by LGBT members.
Unfortunately, LGBT members are still facing homophobia, biphobia and transphobia, and our young people particularly suffer from bullying within education. We still hear about LGBT young people being victimised, beaten and terrorised in places where they should feel safe.
These individuals are future workers, and we strive as a trade union to be out in the workplace with no fear of repercussions or victimisation. However, if they are bullied at an earlier age, how will they feel comfortable in the future?
Education is key to challenging opinions, and encouraging others to realise that their actions cause emotional and mental harm to others.
Conference also notes that the statistics for self harm and suicide amongst young LGBT make frightening reading. Young LGBT people are 3 to 6 times more likely to self harm or attempt suicide than heterosexual young people and a shocking 40% of all young LGBT people have self harmed and/or have attempted suicide at least once.
These figures are more than likely going to be much higher in reality, as individuals may not wish to seek assistance or help.
Conference realises that children within LGBT families are also at risk of suffering from discrimination from their peers, merely due to the lack of understanding about their parents sexual orientation. They too suffer bullying by association, and not many schools have a bullying policy that covers LGBT issues.
Conference believes that the way to tackle this problem is through education in our schools and colleges, to encourage inclusivity and awareness of LGBT people and how they deserve to live in a safe and secure society.
Conference asks the National LGBT Committee to:
1. Co-ordinate with the Local Government Service Group, specifically the School Support Forum in campaigning for LGBT awareness raising in schools;
2. Liaise with Labour Link about the lack of educational resources and potential addition to the curricula across the United Kingdom.