South East Wales LGB Forum

Lesbians on TV - Research Request

2008-02-05T18:28:00.000Z

I'm currently conducting research for my final year dissertation at Cardiff University. My study is focusing on the lesbian audience member and how they feel about lesbian characters on TV.

Do we feel we are being accurately portrayed?
Who are our favourite/most hated TV characters?etc.

I am looking for lesbians over the age of 18 years old, who would like to participate in questionnaires and/or focus groups (focus groups to be conducted in Cardiff throughout March). Anonymity will be granted, and the final findings will be made available upon request. It's a chance to have a good old-fashioned rant about the telly, so what are you waiting for!

If anyone would like to participate in the questionnaire and/or the focus groups please email me at meechk@cardiff.ac.uk

Thank you! Kerry

Merthyr Tydfil LGB Project

2008-01-25T11:22:00.000Z

Stonewall Cymru and the South East Wales LGB Forum will be running a mini-project in Merthyr Tydfil from February to the end of April this year. Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council is funding this work as an Equalities and Diversity Project.

We want to make contact with local lesbian, gay and bisexual people and work with them and the South Wales Police Merthyr Hate Crime Officer to address homophobic hate crime in the area, and develop a local LGB network. We are also happy to work in partnership with local transgender people who contact us.

We will be holding a series of meetings in Merthyr on Wed 6th February, Wed 12th March and 2nd April to get to know local LGB people leading to a Speak-Easy event at the end of April.

So if you are a local lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender person please join us at 6pm on Wed 6th February for tea & sandwiches at the:
Merthyr Tydfil Voluntary Action Centre
89 - 90 High Street
Pontmorlais
Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8UH.

Also if you know any others living in the Merthyr area who you think might be interested please contact them and encourage them to come along. This is the perfect opportunity to increase connections and develop a local LGB network.

For more information contact Jenny Porter, Stonewall Cymru Community Liaison Officer, on 0845 4569823 or jenny.porter@stonewallcymru.org.uk

Press Release: DISSOLUTION OF RAINBOW PROJECT SOUTH WALES

2008-01-17T14:11:00.000Z

Sadly, the Rainbow Project South Wales was dissolved on December 31 2007 because of lack of support for the various events held over the last 12 months and the failure to secure a wider membership.

The existing funds of the Rainbow Project have been transferred to the Terence Higgins Trust Charity for the use and benefit of the South East Wales Forum. To find out more about the Forum, please telephone T.H.T. on 02920 666 465.

The Rainbow Project Trustees would like to thank all who have been involved in the work of the Project and who have supported its events over the years.

Happy New Year

2008-01-04T10:27:00.001Z

From the South East Wales LGB Forum.

Iris Prize Documentary

2007-12-21T13:10:00.000Z

ITV Wales have produced a programme about The Iris Prize, the International Gay and Lesbian Short Film Festival held in Cardiff.

Watch the first part of the programme here and the second part here.

Warning for Gay Men

2007-12-20T11:51:00.000Z

Dear friends and colleagues,

South Wales Police has requested that THT Cymru notifies all LGBT community members in South Wales about the dangers of internet dating. This call to highlight the pitfalls comes after a Cardiff man was verbally and physically attacked in the Corporation Road area of Newport towards the end of November 2007.

The victim of the assault had arranged to meet his attacker via a popular gay and bisexual men's website following a brief conversation, exchanging mobile numbers and then driving to the Newport address.

Meeting people online can be fun and exciting. However, it is can sometimes go wrong. In order to avoid any potentially dangerous situations, there are a few simple tips you can follow to maintain your safety:

When chatting online:
Do not give out your primary e-mail address: if someone pesters you, block them from sending any more messages to you if you are able to.
It is easy to become very open from behind a computer screen, but unfortunately, like everywhere else, there are dishonest people online. Do not divulge your home address or telephone number, or work details until you are sure you can trust the person.
Do not believe everything you are being told, or that every picture you see is in fact the person you are talking to. You might be able to verify a picture by asking them to send another photo of themselves, or by asking questions about the picture. Photos that may seem too professional may have been downloaded off the internet.

When meeting someone:
Be reasonable with your expectations. Do not let your fantasies run away with you - what somebody seems to be online might not be who they are face-to-face.
When meeting for the first time, arrange to meet in a busy public place like a bar or a club, or with friends. You can always go somewhere more private later once you have met them and you are sure you can trust them. Do not rely on the other person for transport - then you can leave whenever you want.

Let someone know who you are meeting and where. You can leave a note, keep a diary, e-mail a friend, or ask someone to phone you on your mobile to make sure you are all right.
Apply your common sense and the basic rules of personal safety. Maintain a healthy degree of suspicion: if anything seems odd, be careful.
If you plan to meet a stranger for sex, be safe and take condoms with you in case you need them.

Meeting somebody via an internet chat site whilst under the influence of drugs or alcohol may make you more vulnerable to physical attack and sexual assault. It may also make it more tricky for you to negotiate safer sex and condom use.
Do not feel compelled or pressurised to do anything you don’t want to. Should things get out of hand don’t hesitate to report it to the police. They’ll be more understanding than you think.
If you would like to talk to somebody in confidence about using the internet to meet people and maintaining your safety, please call THT Cymru in Cardiff on 029 20 66 64 65 or in Swansea on 01792 477 540 or email info.cymru@tht.org.uk

Please forward this email on to anyone in your e-contacts list who may benefit from the information above.

Human Red Ribbon Cardiff

2007-12-14T11:03:00.000Z

We got just enough people to make a ribbon for World AIDS Day, which wasn't at all bad for a cold, damp Friday afternoon.

Human Red Ribbon for World AIDS Day

2007-11-29T10:54:00.000Z

To mark the 25th Anniversary of the Terrence Higgins Trust and its work in Wales, we'd like to invite you, your colleagues and your friends to come along and help create a Human Red Ribbon for World AIDS Day. This human red ribbon will take place at Roald Dahl Plas in Cardiff also known for its appearances in BBC's Torchwood and Doctor Who.

How to take part:

1. Wear Red and come along to Roald Dahl Plas on Friday 30th November for 12.00pm lunch time

2. A Red Ribbon shape will be formed with the help of some stage management and a photographer will be on standby to take photos.

3. Photos of this event will be on sale at a later date to raise money for local people who are affected by HIV

Contact Info
Email: Paul(DOT)Tallis(AT)tht(DOT)org(DOT)uk

An Lof a Tribute Night

2007-11-23T16:41:00.000Z

Following their recent hat trick of successes with ‘an L of a Night’ featuring the cream of the crop of lesbian performers including Rhona Cameron and Sue Perkins, Freshly Squeezed invites you to the biggest event yet in the lesbian calendar…

An Lof a Tribute Night brings together the finest UK lesbian singer-songwriters performing their tributes to the stars. Be part of a unique night featuring the fabulous Greymatter, Al Start, GeEkgiRL, Jess Gardham, Tara Simms and Stars in their Eyes winner; Belinda O’Hooley transforming themselves into your favourite superstars: The Indigo Girls, KD Lang, Tegan & Sarah, Tracy Chapman, Melissa Etheridge and Annie Lennox. Your compere for the night is the award winning, comedian Zoe Lyons plus we have a very special guest appearance by HORSE!

Don’t miss out on watching the most incredible wish list of international acts performing on one stage for just one L of a night!

Saturday 29th March, St David’s Hall, Cardiff, 7.30pm. Tickets priced from £15 available from Fsconcerts or the box office 02920 878400

HIV Not Going Away

2007-11-23T16:08:00.000Z

From The Pink News.

The latest figures released today from the Health Protection Agency reveal that the number of gay and bisexual men diagnosed with HIV in the UK is at its highest rate since the start of the epidemic. 2,700 gay and bisexual men were newly diagnosed last year, the highest number ever. Across the UK 1 in 20 gay and bisexual men are now living with HIV and estimates suggest this figure is as high as 1 in 10 in London.

Bridgend Meeting

2007-11-22T11:12:00.000Z

The Bridgend meeting went really well. We got 20 people there and had a very interesting discussion with Matthew Batten from Stonewall Cymru and the AM Carwyn Jones.

Education for All Posters

2007-11-22T11:03:00.000Z

Backed by Dr Who and Torchwood star John Barrowman, Some people are gay. Get over it! posters, stickers and postcards have been sent to every secondary school in England highlighting, in advance of Anti-Bullying Week, that schools have a duty to protect all pupils and that they need to take homophobic bullying seriously.

You can download the posters here

Press Release – Carols for Christmas with the LGBT community of South Wales

2007-11-22T10:26:00.000Z

The Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement South Wales/De Cymru are branching out this year and holding an interfaith Christmas celebration in Swansea. They have planned a multi-faith celebration of Christmas with a variety of organisations and faiths from the Swansea area. It will be held on Friday 14th December at 7.30pm in the Quaker Meeting House, St Helen’s Road, Swansea and is open to all, regardless of faith or sexuality.

For the last seven years, they have held a very popular ‘Carols for Christmas’ evening in Cardiff. So popular, in fact, that it outgrew its original venue of the Cardiff Quaker Meeting House and is now held regularly at St John the Baptist, The Hayes, Cardiff. This year, the Cardiff event is being held on Saturday 8th December at 8pm. The evening follows the traditional format of well-loved carols sung by candle light, with readings read by representatives of different organisations in the LGBT community of South Wales followed by mince pies and mulled drink. In amongst the jollity and humour, there is a quiet time of reflection with the readings from the ‘Wall of Hopes and Dreams’. This ‘Wall’ is where people can put their own thoughts and hopes for the future. Hearing the everyday thoughts of gay and lesbian people is very moving; it clearly shows how much intolerance and homophobia still exists in society at large.

“This is the seventh year that we have held a Carols for Christmas evening and every year it has become more popular,” said Simon, convenor of the local group. “We think it’s a great way for gay men and women and those who support them to get together and celebrate Christmas. As well as the traditional carol singing, the Queer Choir will be performing something from their extensive repertoire and there will be an opportunity to chat after the service over refreshments. We are really excited about launching a sister-event in Swansea and hope that that will be just as popular.

“Many gay and lesbian people only hear the anti-gay messages from the church. Sadly they abandon the faith they were taught as children. Both of these celebrations are open to all people; there is a special place for non-Christians who wish to celebrate Christmas in the traditional way.”

At the recent Mardi Gras event in Cardiff, LGCM South Wales and their supporters worked hard to collect all the homophobic yellow leaflets distributed by Stephen Green and the Christian Voice. They will be producing some papier mache artwork in the New Year to take to next year’s Mardi Gras.

Janet Jeffries from FFLAG (Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gay Men) added “It was wonderful to see so many family groups there last year and we do hope that even more gay men and women will want to bring their families along to the Carol Service this time. We have many parents of gay people who come along to the Carols Evening because of its inclusive nature.”

Forum Meeting in Bridgend

2007-11-08T11:49:00.000Z

Hi

On behalf of the South East Wales Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Forum, I’d like to invite you to attend our next meeting on Monday 19th November, from 7pm at Bridgend Recreation Centre, Angel Street, Bridgend.

To mark anti-bullying week from 19th – 25th November, this meeting will focus on the issue of homophobic bullying and what can be done about it.

Stonewall’s ‘Education for All’ School Report has revealed that almost two thirds of lesbian and gay pupils (156,000 children) have been victims of homophobic bullying.

If you experienced homophobic bullying at school, or have thoughts on how the current situation can be improved, please come and express your views at this meeting. Carwyn Jones AM will be present. There will also be space to discuss general issues of community safety and concern for LGB people in the Bridgend area.

Refreshments will be provided.

For more information, email sewlgb@tht.org.uk

Annwyl Bawb

Ar ran Fforwm Lesbiaidd, Hoyw a Deurywiol y De Ddwyrain hoffwn eich gwahodd i fynychu ein cyfarfod nesaf ar Ddydd Llun 19eg Tachwedd o 7pm ymlaen yng Nghanolfan Hamdden Pen y bont ar Ogwr, Stryd yr Angel, Pen y bont ar Ogwr.

I ddynodi wythnos wrthfwlio sef 19eg – 25ain Tachwedd bydd y cyfarfod hwn yn canolbwyntio ar fwlio homoffobaidd a beth gellir ei wneud am y peth.

Datgelodd Adroddiad Stonewall ar Ysgolion ‘Addysg i Bawb’ y bu bron i ddwy ran o dair o ddisgyblion lesbiaidd a hoyw (156,000 o blant) yn ddioddefyddion o fwlio homoffobaidd.
Os buoch chi’n dioddef bwlio homoffobaidd yn yr ysgol neu os oes gyda chi syniadau am sut i wella’r sefyllfa bresennol dewch i leisio eich barn yn y cyfarfod hwn. Bydd Carwyn Jones AC yno. Bydd cyfle i drafod materion mwy cyffredinol am ddiogelwch cymunedol ac unrhyw bryderon sydd gan bobl ein cymuned yn ardal Pen y bont ar Ogwr.

Darperir lluniaeth.

Am ragor o wybodaeth ebostiwch sewlgb@tht.org.uk

BI WALES NETWORK LAUNCHED

2007-11-02T16:58:00.000Z

Launch Event and First Meeting
3pm, 3rd November 2007, ‘Pulse’ bar, Cardiff

A new national forum for bisexual people in Wales has been launched! Bi Wales aims to provide a bisexual voice in policy making, to help tackle isolation faced by bi people across Wales and to help support new bi groups and events.

The new Bi Wales network was formed out of a disscussion at Bicon 2007, the national bisexual convention, and is being launched to coincide with International Celebrate Bisexuality Day (ICBD) on 22nd September. The group is open to any person living in Wales who is bisexual or thinks they might be, and will connect Bisexual people in Wales for the first time, through both online networking and periodic meet-ups. Bi Wales will be meeting on 03/11/2007 at Pulse to celebrate International Celebrate Bisexuality Day.

Kay, a spokesperson for Bi Wales from Carmarthen, said “I’m really glad to be involved with this group, and I hope that in time we can help people, like myself, who are growing up bi in small communities, alone and confused about what’s happening to them.”

Jen Yockney, editor of Bi Community News (BCN) said: “until now there has been nothing in Wales for bi people we could refer enquirers to, I am delighted that this new network has been created to fulfill this need and give a community voice to marginalised Bi people in Wales. This is a great step forward for bi people and their visibility”

For more information on Bi Wales, details of our first meeting, or on issues affecting bisexuals in Wales please contact Ele Hicks through the contact details provided below.

To find out more email bicymru@yahoo.co.uk or text 07982308812.

CONTACT: Ele Hicks

EMAIL: bicymru@yahoo.co.uk
URL: http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/biwales

Rugby referee Nigel Owens, Bishop of Hereford and ‘Father of gay law reform’ Antony Grey - all winners at the second Stonewall Awards

2007-11-02T16:55:00.000Z

Media Release

The Second Stonewall Awards ceremony, hosted by TV presenter Anthony Crank, took place this evening. The star-studded event, sponsored for the second year by Barclays, celebrated the positive contributions made by individuals and organisations – both gay and straight – to the lives of gay people across Britain in 2007.

The winners were:

Publication of the Year The Guardian For supportive coverage of a wealth of lesbian and gay issues during the last 12 months across both its news and features sections

Politician of the Year Rt Hon Alan Johnson MP, Secretary of State for Health, and Angela Eagle MP, Treasury Minister, joint winners. For their work on the 2007 Sexual Orientation Regulations

Writer of the Year Val McDermid For this year’s best-selling crime thriller Beneath the Bleeding. Her Wire in the Blood has been an award-winning ITV series

Sports Personality of the Year Nigel Owens Openly-gay international rugby referee who made his pioneering Rugby World Cup debut in France in October 2007

Bigot of the Year The Bishop of Hereford, Anthony Priddis An Employment Tribunal found in July that the Bishop unlawfully withdrew a job offer to a gay North Wales youth worker John Reaney after subjecting him to humiliating personal questioning

Journalist of the Year Philip Hensher, The Independent Regularly features gay issues in a column that is compellingly forthright, insightful and acerbic

Broadcast of the Year Hollyoaks, Channel 4 For its sympathetic and convincing handling of the gritty and emotional storyline about the developing relationship between teenagers John Paul and Craig

Stonewall & Barclays Community Group of the Year London Lesbian and Gay Switchboard For providing unsung 24-hour support and advice to thousands of gay people. Winner of a £5000 cheque presented by Barclays group Vice Chairman Gary Hoffman

Entertainer of the Year Dan Gillespie Sells Openly-gay lead singer of the hugely successful band The Feeling, the most widely-played on UK radio in last 12 months

Hero of the Year Antony Grey Former Secretary of the Homosexual Law Reform Society, he spearheaded the campaign which resulted in the first partial decriminalisation of homosexuality in 1967

Other prominent Welsh nominees for 2007 Stonewall Awards included Cardiff-based Doctor Who writer Russell T Davies and Time Out’s Paul Burston, both short-listed for Writer of the Year. Peter Hain, Work and Pensions Secretary and MP for Neath, was nominated as Politician of the Year.

The Awards ceremony took place at London’s Victoria & Albert Museum before an audience of 400 people. Award-winners were selected by a panel of judges including Clare Balding, Matt Lucas, Nicky Campbell and Paul Gambaccini. Three awards – for Hero, Bully and Community Group of the Year - were voted for by 6,000 Stonewall supporters from across Britain.

Liz Morgan, Director of Stonewall Cymru, said: ‘We are delighted that Welsh speaking International Rugby Referee Nigel Owens has won the accolade of Sports Personality of the Year. It sends out a clear message to lesbian and gay people in the sporting world that it’s okay to be different and still achieve your potential in what is traditionally a heterosexual, macho environment.

‘This year’s Stonewall Awards included a strong list of nominees from Wales which recognises the contribution and support from Wales to lesbian and gay people over the past twelve months.’

Ben Summerskill, Stonewall Chief Executive, said: ‘We are indebted to the winners of these awards for the inspiration and support and encouragement that so many have shown to lesbian and gay people across Britain during the last year.

‘We still have many bridges to cross but we’ve come further in my lifetime that many of us once thought possible. These awards deliberately recognise some of the individuals and organisations, not just lesbian and gay but straight too, who have given us such good cause to celebrate in recent years.’

Further information: Vicky Powell, Communications Officer, (020 7593 1857 / 07985 439 660) or Alan Wardle, Director of Public Affairs (020 7593 1854 / 07720 718176). Out of hours media enquiries 07985 439 660. Images from the awards are available on request.

Notes

Barclays sponsorship of the Stonewall Awards meant that £40,000 in ticket sales was raised from the event for Stonewall’s work

Stonewall is the gay equality organisation founded in 1989. Founding members include Sir Ian McKellen. www.stonewall.org.uk.

Local Lesbian Couple looking to set up Parenting Support Group

2007-10-29T16:26:00.001Z

I recently received a message from a lesbian couple living in Cardiff who are interested in setting up a parenting support group in the South Wales area.

It is important, especially for children of gay/lesbian parents and gay/lesbian parents themselves to meet for support and for children to realise that they are not isolated, that there are other similar family set ups

So if you're interested in setting something up, or if you know of anything alreadly in existence, please could you drop us a line and we'll pass on your message.

sewlgb(AT)tht(dot)org(dot)uk

Next Up!

2007-10-19T13:55:00.000+01:00

On behalf of the South East Wales Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Forum, I’d like to invite you to attend our Health Matters event on Monday 29th October, from 7pm at Thru the Arch Club, 33a Stow Hill, Newport, NP20 1JH.

LGB people often express concerns about health services. We worry that prejudice might affect service provider’s attitudes to our health and sometimes we miss out on services to which we're entitled as a result.

Come and express your views at this meeting on accessing health services. The Forum wants to know if you’ve had bad or good experiences. We want to find out how things could be improved.

Topics include the Inside/Out Report on LGB people’s experiences of accessing health services, cervical screening, breast screening, testicular and prostrate cancer. Representatives from THT Cymru will also be present.

This will be an enjoyable relaxed evening. Refreshments will be provided and the bar will be open!

Media Release: LGBT people more enterprising in Wales!

2007-10-12T10:45:00.000+01:00

Friday 12th October 2007

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Cymru Helpline has received a grant of £10,000 from the Better Swansea Compact Development Fund, funding that is managed by Swansea CVS. The grant will assist the Helpline in launching Pink Pound Wales - a new initiative that assists LGBT people in Swansea and throughout Wales create their own jobs.

Pink Pound Wales is a programme that empowers people to gain new skills and experiences whilst attracting funding for services and products that are much needed in Wales. The programme seeks ideas for services and products that are needed by LGBT communities around Wales and enables individuals and groups of people to create, plan, and deliver innovative and exciting projects.

Federico Podeschi, Managing Director of the LGBT Excellence Centre and its LGBT Cymru Helpline, said: “We are very excited to introduce Pink Pound Wales as an innovative programme that introduces a new way of thinking about employment and sustainability. We are looking forward to bringing employment opportunities to those people in Wales that because of their sexual orientation or gender identity might have missed out on having the same opportunities as others”.

By visiting the Excellence Centre’s website, people with a viable idea can submit their proposals for initial consideration and applications to become a volunteer for the programme are already being received from LGBT people across Wales.

For further information and queries, please visit www.lgbtexcellencecentre.org.uk and click on Support Us or contact Federico Podeschi, Managing Director at Federico@lgbtcymru.co.uk.

Note to Editor:

1. For more information about the Better Swansea Compact Development Fund, and details of other groups who have received grants in the area, please contact Swansea Council for Voluntary Service on 01792 544000.

2. For further information on the LGBT Excellence Centre and the LGBT Cymru Helpline, please visit www.lgbtexcellencecentre.org.uk or e-mail those_nice_people@lgbtexcellencecentre.org.uk.

Federico Podeschi
Managing Director
LGBT Excellence Centre & LGBT Cymru Helpline

Poster for Merthyr Meeting

2007-10-11T16:53:00.000+01:00

Stonewall ‘delight’ at decision to outlaw incitement to homophobic hatred

2007-10-11T11:30:00.000+01:00

Media release

Stonewall this evening welcomed the Government’s decision to include an offence of incitement to homophobic hatred in the new Criminal Justice & Immigration Bill. Justice Secretary Jack Straw made the announcement during the Second Reading debate of the Bill.

Ben Summerskill, Stonewall Chief Executive, said: ‘We’re delighted. We’ve worked tirelessly over the last six months seeking to persuade Ministers to match existing race incitement laws with identical protections for sexual orientation. A new offence will help deter extremists who stir up hatred against lesbian and gay people.’

‘These protections aren’t about preventing people expressing their religious views in a temperate way. However, we refuse to accept any longer that there’s no connection between extreme rap lyrics calling for gay people to be attacked, or fundamentalist claims that all gay people are paedophiles, with the epidemic of anti-gay violence disfiguring Britain’s streets. We anticipate, as always, a tough battle with our traditional opponents in the House of Lords but remain determined to secure complete equality in the criminal law.’

For further information, contact: Alan Wardle, Director of Parliamentary Affairs (020 7593 1854 / 07720 718176) or Ben Summerskill, Chief Executive (020 7593 1853/07949 108798). Out of hours media enquiries 07985 439 660.
Notes

1. Stonewall is the gay equality organisation founded in 1989. Founding members include Sir Ian McKellen.

ends

Proposed law against incitement to homophobic hatred

2007-10-09T12:30:00.000+01:00

From the Guardian Online.

Inciting homophobic hatred will become illegal, the justice secretary, Jack Straw, announced last night, following a campaign by gay rights groups. The introduction of an offence of rallying hatred against gays and lesbians follows similar measures to tackle religious hate crime, which were passed earlier this year after lengthy rows over freedom of speech.

"It is a measure of how far we have come as a society in the last 10 years that we are now appalled by hatred and invective directed at people on the basis of their sexuality. It is time for the law to recognise this," said Mr Straw, introducing the second reading of the criminal justice and immigration bill.

The offence is technically defined as inciting hatred on the grounds of sexuality, protecting bisexuals and heterosexuals too. Mr Straw said he would consider whether protection should be extended to transgendered and disabled people.

The proposal is likely to run into opposition in the Lords. Evangelical Christian groups have argued that Christians who criticised gay sex could be jailed for up to seven years and warned it would be used to censor the expression of religious beliefs. A spokeswoman for the Ministry of Justice said: "The new law would not prohibit criticism of gay, lesbian and bisexual people, but it would protect them from incitement to hatred against them because of their sexual orientation."
Ben Summerskill, chief executive of the gay rights campaign Stonewall, said: "We refuse to accept that there's no connection between rap lyrics calling on people to kill homosexuals, or BNP literature describing gay people as paedophiles, and the epidemic of anti-gay violence taking place on Britain's streets."

Gay & Lesbian film festival in Cardiff

2007-10-04T14:12:00.000+01:00

The Iris prize gay and lesbian film festival is on in Cardiff.

New Guidelines on Homophobic Bullying in Schools

2007-10-03T17:14:00.000+01:00

Via Stonewall Cymru.

Stonewall welcomes today’s publication by the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) of groundbreaking new guidance for teachers: ‘Preventing and Responding to Homophobic Bullying in Schools’..

The pioneering guidance, commissioned from Stonewall by the DCSF, provides school governors, heads, teachers and other staff with practical information - including lesson plans - about how to prevent and respond to homophobic bullying.

The School Report, Stonewall’s recently-published research into homophobic bullying in Britain’s secondary schools, demonstrated that almost two thirds of young gay people have experienced homophobic bullying. Ninety seven per cent of gay pupils regularly hear homophobic insults at school; three in ten of the 1100 young people surveyed said that it was adults in schools who carry out the bullying.

Ed Balls MP, Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families, said: “Homophobic insults should be viewed as seriously as racism. Even casual use of homophobic language in schools can create an atmosphere that isolates young people and can be the forerunner of more serious forms of bullying.”

Ben Summerskill, Stonewall Chief Executive, said: “Stonewall is proud to have been commissioned by the DCSF to produce this guidance. The life chances of children bullied at school are often permanently diminished. This tool represents an essential and much welcome step forward in the development of joined-up thinking that will help schools and teachers address all forms of bullying effectively.”

Harriet Harman MP, Secretary of State for Equality, said: “Homophobic bullying creates an ugly climate of intimidation and makes it harder for young people to come out. Teachers and schools can tackle homophobic bullying and this guidance will help them.”

For media enquiries contact: Vicky Powell, Communications Officer, (020 7593 1857 / 07985 439 660) or Alan Wardle, Director of Parliamentary & Public Affairs (020 7593 1854 / 07720 718 176). Out of hours media enquiries 07985 439 660.

Merthyr Meeting

2007-10-03T15:35:00.000+01:00

We now have a venue for our meeting in Merthyr Tydfil.

The formal meeting starts at 7pm but we'll be there from 6pm for tea, cake and chat!

Thursday 18th October

Voluntary Action Centre
89 - 90 High Street
Pontmarlias
Merthyr Tydfil
CF47 8UH

Stonewall Cymru new address

2007-09-24T13:57:00.001+01:00

Please note that the Cardiff office is moving on 25 September 2007.

The new address is:
3rd floor
Transport House
1 Cathedral Road
Cardiff
CF11 9SB.

Lesbian Literature Course

2007-09-21T11:00:00.000+01:00

If you've got a bit of spare cash and like a read ...

Lesbian Literature
Fee £65.00 (Reduced Fee £52.00)
Justine Hankins

This course explores how lesbian identity has been reflected infiction over the past century from Radclyffe Hall to Sarah Waters. We will read a range of writing with lesbian themes and consider how changing attitudes have shaped the work of lesbian authors. Please bring a copy of Radclyffe Hall's The Well of Loneliness to the first meeting.

10 weekly meetings Thursdays from 7:00pm to 9:00pm starting 4th October 2007 The Humanities Building, Colum Drive.For further information contact:Tel: 029 2087 0000 Email: learn(AT)cardiff(DOT)ac(DOT)uk

Via Womenzone.

Feedback

2007-09-21T10:59:00.000+01:00

If you went to Mardi Gras, you can find pictures, TV coverage and tell the organisers what you thought about the event here.

Media Release: Need to tell Someone? "Tell Me"

2007-09-21T10:49:00.000+01:00

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Cymru Helpline has received a grant of £10,000 from the Social Risk Fund, a European small grants scheme administered by the Wales Council for Voluntary Action that aims to support projects that take chances and do something innovative to regenerate local communities across Wales. The grant will assist the Helpline to launch a project called "Tell me!" that will train 15 individuals from around Wales in counselling and research skills.

"Tell me!" will enable the Helpline to provide a listening hear and counselling services to LGBT across Wales whilst mapping out issues that people face due to their sexual orientation or gender identity as well as the services that are available to them.

Federico Podeschi, Managing Director of the LGBT Cymru Helpline, said:

"We are ecstatic to have received the support of this funding that will help us deliver more support to all LGBT people in Wales. "Tell me!" aims to combat social exclusion and improve the quality of life for communities across Wales as well as helping people from disadvantaged backgrounds towards employment or to gain new skills, in order to, increase the opportunities for employment".

Application for this training opportunity are being welcomed from LGBT people across Wales by visiting the Helpline's website where applications to become a volunteer for the project can be submitted.

For further information and queries, please visitTell or contact Federico Podeschi, Managing Director at Federico(AT)lgbtcymru(DOT)co(DOT)uk

Stonewall joins BA

2007-09-21T10:46:00.000+01:00

Stonewall has just joined British Airways free programme for companies – On Business.

Now anyone can help Stonewall every time they fly on British Airways. When making a reservation, all you need to do is provide them with Stonewalls On Business account number and you will help earn valuable points for Stonewall at no cost to you! This can be done in addition to using your personal BA Executive number.

Stonewall On Business account number: 067027GB.

Please forward to your contacts.

Want to work for the LGCM?

2007-09-17T14:16:00.000+01:00

Want a career change?

Ripe for a major new challenge?

Here is your chance to work for the Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement.

Interested in promoting human rights and a positive attitude to sexuality from a faith perspective?

This could be the job for you.

Applications are invited from today for the new post of Assistant Chief Executive. The successful candidate will be the first to be considered for the post of Chief Executive, once the current post-holder Richard Kirker steps down on 31 August 2008 after 30 years at the helm.
Full details are available now here.

Applications must be received by 12 noon on 24 September. Interviews will be held on 16 October in London.

Applications are welcomed from all sections of the community and from all parts of the world.
Advertisements appear today in The Guardian, and later this week in The Tablet, Church Times, Third Sector and other job websites.

A large text version of the Job description and Application form are also available on the website.

Please spread the word and thank-you for your interest in our work.
Best wishes,
Richard Kirker
CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Stonewall Cymru Office Move

2007-09-17T14:10:00.001+01:00

Stonewall Cymru’s Cardiff office is moving on the 17th of September 2007 to:

Transport House
1 Cathedral Road
Cardiff CF11 9SD

Please be aware that there may be a short period when we are unavailable by email or phone while services are transferred to our new offices. If you need to contact us during that period and cannot please contact Jenny Porter in our Bangor office on 01248 370082 or the Stonewall London office on 020 7593 1850.

We would like to thank you for your continued support. Please visitStonewall Cymru for details of our current and upcoming events and campaigns and for more ways to support us, including becoming a volunteer or a friend.

We would also like to draw your attention to the new Shout OUT! campaign launched at Cardiff Mardi Gras. Whether you've received a 1st rate service or you've been treated unfairly we'd like to hear from you.

Shout OUT your views and experiences on anything from hate crime to healthcare, or employment to education and help us improve the lives of LGB people in Wales. We also welcome your views on how LGB people fair in the media in Wales. Visit Shoutout for more information.

Age Concern News Release

2007-09-14T13:07:00.000+01:00

News Release: 3 September 2007

Successful day for Age Concern Cymru at the 2007 Cardiff Mardi Gras
For the first time, Age Concern Cymru organised an exhibition stand at the Cardiff Mardi Gras over the weekend (1 September 2007) and was inundated with requests for help and information from older gay and lesbian people.

The charity decided to host an exhibition stand at this year’s event because the issue of ‘coming out’ for any homosexual person can be traumatic but for an older person the experience can be particularly acute.

Age Concern Cymru’s Deborah Boyce said: “Many of the visitors to our stand were pleasantly surprised about the amount of information we produce for older gay and lesbian people. Our information on benefits for same sex couples, planning for later life as a same sex couple, and organising civil partnerships just flew off our shelves.

“Many people also congratulated us for our work towards making age discrimination as socially unacceptable as other forms of discrimination.”

Speaking prior to the event the Director of Age Concern Cymru, Robert Taylor, explained about some of the difficulties facing older gay and lesbian people: “Many older gay men and lesbian women who were young between the 1930’s and the 1950’s remember when homosexual relationships were illegal in the UK, leading to many of them remaining silent about their sexuality.

“This silence creates problems when life begins to demand more help from others. Care workers, for example, may not realise that their patient’s ‘good friend’ is in fact a life long partner, while other older people report being completely disenfranchised from their families because of their sexuality.

“So it is important for Age Concern Cymru to reach out to older lesbian and gay people to let them know that help and support is available.”

Age Concern Cymru recently set up the Older Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) network to help raise the profile of the main issues affecting these groups of people and to influence policy and services for older LGBT people.

The Network has produced a campaigning action card that has been widely distributed to AM’s and service providers in Wales.

One of the key objectives of the Network is to work towards ensuring that all older LGBT people have their needs assessed without prejudice and in an appropriate manner. The Network believes that this is a matter of social justice and equality.

For more information about our work contact Age Concern Cymru on 029 2043 1555.

Ends.

ENFYS Film Festival Social

2007-09-11T09:41:00.000+01:00

You may already know that Cardiff now has a brand new LGBT film festival all of its own - IRIS (Latin for rainbow!) - which runs 4-6 October 2007.

On Friday 5 October ENFYS - Cardiff University LGBT Staff Network - will meet in the Bar at Chapter Arts Centre, Canton, Cardiff - directions on how to get there are on the website) at 6.30pm for a drink and a social before going as a group to watch Shorts Programme 4 in Cinema 1 at 7.00pm - a mix of gay and lesbian short films which will last an hour or so. After the screening more socialising or if you’re hungry a curry or a sushi nearby. You, your network colleagues and friends are more than welcome to join us.

Please book your tickets in advance for the short films by contacting Chapter Box Office or online through - it’s likely to sell-out so we advise you purchase ASAP.
NO RSVP is required.
Kind regards,
Gethin While & Hannah Quinn
Co-Chairs
ENFYS
Contact: lgbtstaffnetwork@cardiff.ac.uk
NOTES:
Shorts Programme 4
Date: 5th October 2007
Time: 19.00
Location: Chapter
Duration: 70 mins
Buy tickets
Area X
(Dir. Dennis Shinners, USA, 15 mins)
Legacy
(Dir. Inge Blackman, UK, 17 mins)
Le Weekend
(Dir. Timothy Smith, UK, 15 mins)
Small Town Boy
(Dir. Moby Longinotto, UK, 13 mins)
The 'Dancing Marquis' Diaries
(Dir. Chris Morris & Marc Rees, Wales, 3 mins)
White Fire
(Dir. Joan Beveridge, UK, 8 mins)

Gethin While
FUTURREG Project Officer Swyddog Prosiect FUTURREG
The Observatory of Innovation Yr Arsyllfa Arloesedd
Cardiff Business School Ysgol Fusnes Caerdydd
Cardiff University Prifysgol Caerdydd
Aberconway Building Adeilad Aberconwy
Colum Drive Rhodfa Colum
Cardiff Caerdydd
CF10 3EU
Wales Cymru
United Kingdom Y Deyrnas Unedig
T +44 (0)29 20876845
F +44 (0)29 20874419
W http://www.blogger.com/www.cardiff.ac.uk/carbs/walesfutures
E WhileG@cardiff.ac.uk

See you there

2007-08-29T12:25:00.000+01:00

Cardiff Mardi Gras this weekend!

If you want to find out more about the South East Wales LGB Forum, pop along to the Terrence Higgins Trust Cymru or Stonewall Cymru stalls where staff will be able to help you out.

"I wish I hadn't said anything"

2007-08-23T15:38:00.000+01:00

Good article from the Independent on the extent of homophobic bullying in schools.

Sticks and Stones Project

2007-08-23T14:54:00.000+01:00

Sticks and Stones project are looking for young lesbian, gay and bisexual people (16-25) to take part in a series of short films.

Josh Rafter, the Big Brother star and director of Britain's biggest gay property management agency Outlet is lending his support to "Sticks and Stones", a new project set up by The Rural Media Company. Young gay, lesbian, and bi-sexual people (aged 16-25) are being asked to talk about their own experiences of life in rural areas and get involved in making a series of short films on tackling homophobic bullying.

"I am delighted to be helping the Sticks and Stones project," says Josh. "It was incredible the number of letters I received after Big Brother from young gay people who felt isolated and in a lot of cases bullied and harassed. Many were terrified to openly admit they were gay."

As well as Josh, other high profile gay celebrities will be getting involved over the coming weeks, so if you're up for taking part visit www.insitemag.net/sticks for more info.

Your anonymity is assured if you are not "out".

NOTES: website launches 1st week September / online forum mid-September / first live web chat hour 1st week of October.

Please call Steven Davies for further information 01432 344039 or email stevend@ruralmedia.co.uk

Steven Paul Davies
Project Co-ordinator - Sticks and Stones

The Rural Media Company
Sullivan House
72-80 Widemarsh Street
Hereford
HR4 9HG

Tel 01432 344039
www.ruralmedia.co.uk

Mardi Gras update

2007-08-17T15:09:00.000+01:00

Things are hotting up as we get closer to the big day as we’re busy confirming acts, market traders, caterers, bars etc…

Keep checking the website for details of who’s on!

We just thought we’d drop you a quick reminder and some fresh news on what’s happening in the next two weeks (also check calendar on website for latest):

18 August - Peterson Toscano live from Edinburgh fringe with “the Re-Education of George W Bush” from 7.00 at City URC, Windsor Place

23 August – Ty Rosa dinner – there’s still a few places left for this fabulous meal. Check the menu and booking details: here.

26 August – Golden Cross Mardi Gras BBQ - What better cure for that hangover? Join us and know that half of the proceeds for every lovely burger you buy will go towards the Mardi Gras

27 August – Golden Cross - Psychic Bingo with the lovely Kitty Litter. You pay to play and half of the proceeds go to the winner and half to the Mardi Gras!

28 August – Golden Cross Karaoke -We can't wait to hear how you sound and once again the Golden will be donating money from this event to the Mardi Gras!

29 August – Kings Cross Drag Extravaganza – how many drag queens can you get on one stage? At the last count Kings were saying 15 and hosted by the delightful Kitty Litter!

30-31 August - Time to catch your breath then

1 September – The Main event which starts at 1.00 and goes on until 9.00. If you’re ready for an earlier start why not watch the rugby tournament on Black Weir Field which starts around 11.00

Volunteering - We’re still looking for help on the day so if you can spare an hour or two please use this link to send us your details

The Mardi Gras Team

Media Release: Second Stonewall Awards celebrate Gay and Gay-Friendly Britain

2007-08-17T10:20:00.000+01:00

Stonewall is delighted to announce that the second annual Stonewall Awards ceremony will be held on 1 November at the V&A in London.

Sponsored for the second year by Barclays, the Stonewall Awards 2007 will be presented by actor and TV personality John Barrowman at the Victoria & Albert Museum and are designed to celebrate the range of positive contributions being made by individuals and organisations to the lives of gay people in Britain.

This year will once again see three of the ten accolades – ‘Hero of the Year’, ‘Bigot of the Year’ and the ‘Stonewall & Barclays Community Group of the Year’ – being chosen by a vote among more than 6,000 Stonewall supporters from across Britain. The chosen Community Group of the Year will receive a cheque for £5,000 to support its work.

Seven other award-winners such as Journalist of the Year and Entertainer of the Year will be selected by a panel including BBC sports presenter Clare Balding and broadcaster Paul Gambaccini.

Ben Summerskill, Stonewall Chief Executive, said: ‘Once again, the Stonewall Awards provide an opportunity to celebrate the contribution of so many individuals – not only gay people, but straight people too – whose support for equality makes an incredible difference to the lives of millions of lesbian and gay people up and down the country.’

Gary Hoffman, Barclays Group Vice Chairman, said: ‘Barclays are proud to support the Stonewall Awards again this year. We are very active in encouraging diversity and inclusion across the communities in which we operate and are so delighted to have the opportunity to continue our work with Stonewall and celebrate diversity in such a positive way.’

Stonewall Award winners in 2006 included Sarah Waters, John Barrowman, Sugar Rush, Staffordshire Police, www.pinknews.co.uk and the Albert Kennedy Trust. The award for ‘Hero of the Year’ was presented to Sheri Dobrowski, who courageously spoke out after her son Jody’s killers were sentenced. Radio 1 DJ Chris Moyles was named ‘Bully of the Year’.

For further information contact: Andy Forrest, Communications Officer, (020 7593 1856/07985 439 660), Vicky Powell, Communications Officer (0207 593 1857/ 07985 439 660) or Alan Wardle, Director of Public Affairs (020 7593 1854 / 07720 718176). Out of hours media enquiries 07985 439 660.

Notes

Shortlist for ‘Hero of the Year’ – an individual who has supported, encouraged, inspired or achieved the most for lesbians, gay men and bisexuals:

John Amaechi – former professional NBA basketball star, spoke powerfully earlier this year about life as a closeted gay athlete sparking debate on both sides of the Atlantic on homophobia in sport.

Sgt Julie Barnes-Frank – one of the first openly lesbian or gay police officers, founded Greater Manchester Police Lesbian and Gay Staff Affiliation in 1998 which now offers 24-hour advice and support to LGB police staff.

Beth Ditto – lead singer of rock band The Gossip and outspoken advocate of gay equality, combines non-conformity with mainstream appeal, penning an advice column for The Guardian and nominated NME Sexiest Woman 2007.

Antony Grey – veteran equality campaigner. As Secretary of the Homosexual Law Reform Society played a key role in securing the 1967 Sexual Offences Act to partly decriminalise homosexual acts.

Lisa Power – veteran of human rights campaigns for over 25 years, first as a writer and activist for lesbian and gay rights and since the 1980s, in HIV and sexual health. The first person to speak at the UN on gay equality.

Shortlist for ‘Bigot of the Year’ – an individual who has gone out of their way to harm, hurt or snub lesbians, gay men and bisexuals in the last 12 months:

Archbishop of Birmingham – spoke out against our new goods and services protections for gay people, threatening to close welfare services and adoption agencies unless the Government agreed to sweeping exemptions.

Jeremy Clarkson – Top Gear presenter and journalist, refused to apologise after being reprimanded by BBC bosses for derogatory gay jibes on primetime TV.

Bishop of Hereford – withdrew a job offer to a youth worker because he was gay, after subjecting him to a series of humiliating personal questions.

Patricia McKeever – secretive editor of the Catholic Truth website and newsletter. Co-ordinates a relentless campaign to ‘name and shame’ gay Catholic priests, and has been widely condemned for conducting a ‘witch-hunt’.

Ian Paisley Jnr – minister in the new Northern Ireland Executive. Said he was ‘repulsed’ by lesbian and gay people – has since refused to apologise.

Doesn't anyone want to know what makes people straight?

2007-08-14T12:12:00.000+01:00

From The Pink News.

This makes me angry!

Scientists investigating a genetic basis for homosexuality will be recruiting more pairs of gay brothers in Chicago this weekend.

The Molecular Genetic Study of Sexual Orientation is the most extensive study of its kind.

It was embarked upon by a team of researchers from Chicago universities four years ago.

Researchers hope that by gathering DNA samples from 1,000 sets of gay brothers they will be able to find genetic linkages smaller studies failed to detect.

The results of the study could lead to massive controversy, both by providing ammunition in the raging cultural war over homosexuality and by raising fears about ethically questionable applications like genetic profiling and prenatal testing.

However, the scientists involved argue that the research is essential to our biological understanding of sexual behaviour.

I bet they do. Can you imagine anyone pouring millions of pounds into scientific studies to find the cause of heterosexuality? Why not get some heterosexual brothers and see if we can discover genetic linkages that explain their heterosexuality?

We'll know we're getting near equality when people finally stop asking this sinister question.

Media Request

2007-08-14T11:45:00.000+01:00

We've had an inquiry from the producer/programme planner for the BBC's Week in, Week Out.

He's trying to get together a proposal for a programme around how much life has (or hasn't) changed for lesbian, gay or bisexual people since the decriminalisation of homosexuality in the UK 40 years. He is very keen to speak to anyone who may have had experience of aversion therapy back in the 50s and 60s - please ask about amongst the older LGBT community members you know who may not access the internet, to see if they might be interested in talking to BBC Wales.

Drop me an email if you want more information.

Getting with the times

2007-08-14T11:43:00.001+01:00

The Forum is now on Facebook!

If you type "south east wales lgb forum" into search, you should find us straight away.

Do come and say hello is you're on the network.

Rhondda MP calls for new legislation

2007-08-13T12:54:00.000+01:00

From The Pink Paper.

Chris Bryant, MP for the Rhondda, has called on the Home Secretary Jacqui Smith MP to consider introducing a specific offence of homophobic hate crime.

During a statement on the government’s new crime strategy, Chris Bryant pointed to the fact that there are still many cases of “gay bashing” going on around the country and the reluctance of many gay men to report such incidents to the police is particularly worrying.

As a result he has called on the new Home Secretary to introduce legislation that would identify acts of homophobic violence as a specific offence. Bryant says: “This government has an excellent record of promoting equality since 1997 and has done a great deal to help promote equal rights for homosexuals in particular. “I would like to see this fine record continued by the government introducing measurers to bring about a specific offence of homophobic hate crime. This would allow victims of such crimes greater assurances that there is specific legislation designed to protect them and prosecute perpetrators.”

Bryant’s call for the new law came in the same week that marked the 40th anniversary of Sexual Offences Act 1967, introduced to partly legalise homosexuality.

Ty Rosa dinner deferred

2007-08-10T14:12:00.001+01:00

The dinner at Ty Rosa has been deferred to 23rd August. There’s a fabulous menu and live entertainment and all for £19.95 with Ty Rosa donating £10.00 from every ticket sold to the Mardi Gras. So check here for full details and booking information.

The Re-Education of George W. Bush

2007-08-10T14:10:00.000+01:00

Direct from the Edinburgh fringe festival we’re pleased to advise you of an opportunity to see internationally renowned gay comedian, Peterson Toscano here in Cardiff.

Peterson’s previous work of “Ho Mo No Mo” was widely acclaimed and we’re sure you’ll not want to miss the chance to get involved with “The Re-education of George W Bush”.

Through a series of lively lessons, gay comic theatrical performance activist, Peterson Toscano playfully instructs President Bush and his cabinet on history, the economy, privilege, environmentalism, the Bible and humanity. Bitingly funny and painfully insightful, Peterson takes no prisoners as he speaks to the George W. Bush in all of us.

It all takes place on Saturday 18th August from 7.00pm at City United Reform Church, Windsor Place, Cardiff (behind Sainsburys/Barclays on Queen Street) with an entry fee of only £5.00. Contact Simon on 07719 644581 for more details.

New Director for Stonewall Cymru

2007-08-10T11:06:00.000+01:00

Congratulations to Liz Morgan who has been appointed as the new Director of Stonewall Cymru.

There's a nice write up in The Pink News.

Monmouthshire Meeting

2007-08-07T16:33:00.000+01:00

We’re pleased to say that we now have the date and venue booked for our Monmouthshire meeting this month.

7pm, Wednesday 22nd August
Abergavenny Leisure Centre
Old Hereford Road
Abergavenny
Mons.
NP7 6EP

The consultation meeting will focus on the main issues for LGB people in the area, including community safety and homophobic hate crime. We’ll be inviting representatives from Gwent Police and other relevant organisations.

We’re very keen to find out about the needs of people living in Monmouthshire, but if you’d like to attend from Torfaen or Newport you’re more than welcome to come along.

If you’re planning on coming, it would be great if you could let us know so that we can make sure that we cater appropriately.

The Eisteddfod is coming

2007-08-03T11:52:00.000+01:00

Via Stonewall Cymru.

A Welsh Eisteddfod Meeting to tackle homophobic hate crime will take place on Saturday 4 August at the Sbardun Pavilion between 12:30pm and 1:30pm

Click on the link for more details.

THT launches website for gay men on using GP services

2007-08-01T11:49:00.000+01:00

Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) has launched a new section of its website which aims to help gay and bisexual men get the most from their GP surgery. The site http://www.tht.org.uk/gpsandgaymen provides men with information on using their surgery and explains how different parts of the NHS work.

Topics on the site include choosing a GP, health records, confidentiality and using complaints procedures. The site also explains the benefits of coming out to your GP and what to do if you're facing discrimination.

Research shows almost 44% of gay men have not disclosed their sexuality to their doctor. Poor communication about sex and sexuality with staff in GPs surgeries may mean men don't get the healthcare or support they need.

Marc Thompson, Programme Development Manager at Terrence Higgins Trust said ‘It's not always easy coming out to your GP but it may be one of most important things you can do to keep yourself healthy. If your doctor knows about your sexuality, you can openly discuss your life, relationships and health concerns. They can also keep an eye out for any health problems relevant to you and your lifestyle.’

Another part of the site is specifically aimed at those working in GP surgeries, providing information and resources which may enable surgeries to improve the service they offer.

From decriminalisation to civil partnership

2007-07-30T14:28:00.000+01:00

The BBC has a timeline of the fight for equality for anyone interested in seeing how we got to where we are.

Women in Tune Festival

2007-07-30T12:18:00.000+01:00

Don't forget to book for the Women in Tune festival from 22nd - 28th August.

Auction

2007-07-20T17:03:00.001+01:00

The Cardiff Mardi Gras team are holding a silent auction to raise funds for the event.

You can bid on discs signed by Liza Minnelli and Doris Day here.

It was 40 years ago today

2007-07-20T13:54:00.000+01:00

Channel 4 marks the anniversary of the decriminalisation of homosexuality in the UK with a series of programmes.

Stonewall celebrates tribunal victory against Bishop of Hereford

2007-07-20T12:59:00.000+01:00

'Triumph for 21st century decency over 19th century prejudice'

Stonewall is celebrating today's employment tribunal decision in favour of John Reaney, the gay man who has won his discrimination claim against the Bishop of Hereford. The case was supported and funded by Stonewall.

John Reaney was interviewed by a panel of eight people for the post of Youth Officer in the Diocese of Hereford last summer. However, a unanimous decision to appoint him was blocked by the Bishop of Hereford after a meeting in which Mr Reaney was humiliatingly cross-examined by the Bishop about his private life.

Mr Reaney is set to secure substantial compensation. In its judgement, the Tribunal said: 'The Respondents discriminated against the Claimant on the grounds of sexual orientation. The case will now be listed for a remedy hearing.'

John Reaney said: 'I'm delighted that the Bishop of Hereford has lost this case. It demonstrates to many lesbian and gay Christians working for God within the Church of England that they are entitled to fair and respectful treatment. I'm very grateful indeed to Stonewall for their support throughout this case. I'm also grateful to my solicitor Alison Downie of Bindman & Partners and barrister Sandyha Drew for all their work.'

Ben Summerskill, Stonewall Chief Executive, said: 'This outcome is a triumph for 21st century decency over 19th century prejudice. We're very happy for John. The tribunal has rightly made clear that the Church of England cannot discriminate against gay people with impunity. No one, not even a Bishop, is exempt from the law.'

Mr Reaney, who lives in north Wales, went to Stonewall Cymru's Cardiff office for advice and, given its importance, Stonewall supported and funded his case throughout. Stonewall argued that a heterosexual person would not have been subject to the same level of intrusive questioning as Reaney. The case was heard over four days in Cardiff in April.

'The reason that Christians can practice their faith in this country alongside Muslims, and Protestants alongside Catholics, is precisely because modern Britain respects difference,' said Ben Summerskill. 'We hope this decision gives a clear signal to all employers about the importance of respecting lesbian and gay people in the workplace.'

Press Release

2007-07-20T12:54:00.000+01:00

Wednesday 18th July 2007

Media Release

Discriminated LGBT People Get Support in Wales!

Today sees an important victory for LGB victims of discrimination in the workplace by religious organisations. The Employment Tribunal ruling in favour of John Reany, who was discriminated against by the Church of England on the grounds of sexual orientation, tell us that there are still many issues that all organisations have to address when it comes to ensuring that all employees are treated with dignity and respect.

Unfortunately, cases heard in tribunals are only the tip of the iceberg as many people still face inequality and discrimination without knowing what their rights are and how to obtain the advice that they need. Whilst the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Cymru Helpline is about to be re-launched as the LGBT Excellence Centre (Wales) Ltd, the Helpline is already offering advice and support to LGBT victims of discrimination in the workplace and in the provision of goods, facilities, and services.

The Excellence Centre is offering confidential advice and support to LGBT people to tackle discrimination and had developed strong links with Citizens Advice Bureaux, ACAS, current Statutory Commissions, and Trade Unions as well as solicitors throughout the UK that can offer free representation to victims of unlawful discrimination.

The Excellence Centre's Managing Director, Federico Podeschi (formerly Discrimination Law Officer at Stonewall) said: "It is critical that people are able to access advice and information easily and that access to justice is readily available to them. Regardless of someone's sexual orientation or gender identity, there are still many victims of discrimination that cannot enforce their right because of fears of the repercussions of making a claim or simply because the current procedures might disclose very sensitive information that people want to keep private".

He added: "We are urging people to contact us and report what inequalities they face so that we can all work together to access justice and make sure that the UK becomes a better place for everyone. Having supported John Reaney and other cases in both previous and current jobs, I am committed to ensuring that people can get the support that they need from the very beginning from a professional organisation that fully understands their needs and without compromising their personal circumstances whilst maintaining their confidentiality at all times".

The LGBT Excellence Centre (Wales) Ltd is the only social enterprise in Wales to provide advice and support services to Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender people and can help organisations to address equality, diversity and human rights in their operations through training, consultancy and other business services.

For further information and queries, please contact Federico Podeschi, Managing Director on 01792 645325 or 07876 655871.

Note to Editor:

1. The Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) Regulations that protect gay, lesbian, and bisexual people in employment and vocational training, were implemented on 1st December 2003

2. The The Equality Act (Sexual Orientation) Regulations that outlaw discrimination in the provision of goods and services, including healthcare, hotels and insurance, were implemented on 30th April 2007.

4. For further information on the LGBT Excellence Centre and its Helpline, please e-mail Federico@lgbtcymru.co.uk or contact the Helpline on 0870 850 88 28

Federico Podeschi
Managing Director
LGBT Cymru Helpline
Listening to & Supporting the LGBT Community in WalesPlease consider the environment - do you need to print this email? Ystyriwch yr amgylchedd - oes angen argraffu'r e-bost hwn mewn gwirionedd?

New Training

2007-07-17T14:36:00.000+01:00

Safer Cardiff are providing training to combat homophobic bullying.

New Group!

2007-07-13T11:15:00.000+01:00

There's a new LGBT social group in Newport: LGBT Newport.

The first meeting is on July 25th in Thru the Arch at 7.30 and the launch party is on August 13th also at Thru the Arch

Do check it out if you're in the area.

Gay Poles flee to Britain

2007-07-10T12:57:00.001+01:00

From The Guardian.

Polish gay rights groups claim thousands of homosexuals have fled the country to escape increasing persecution.

Robert Biedron, 27, the head of the Polish Foundation Against Homophobia, said that 'huge numbers' of Polish gays had left the country following the rise to power of the right-wing government. He said: 'It is incredible. The Polish gay community has just left because of the climate of fear and persecution.

'Most of the people I know are now in England because of the current political situation. Not for economic reasons, but because of the persecution of homosexuals going on here. It's impossible for gays to be themselves in Poland.'

The level of persecution taking place in Poland at the moment is horrendous and we should probably be thinking about whether gay Poles arriving here need specific services too.

25 Years On

2007-07-09T12:28:00.000+01:00

Interesting article from The Guardian on the 25th anniversary of the death of Terrence Higgins.

Twenty five years ago today, Terrence Higgins, who worked as a Hansard reporter at the House of Commons and as a barman in the London nightclub Heaven, died isolated in his room at St Thomas' hospital, south London. He succumbed, finally, to a frightening and fatal combination of symptoms. The medics who fought to save him had no idea what they were battling, or its future global significance. The virus HIV had yet to be discovered and given the name we now know so well.

Worried friends started the Terrence Higgins Trust to disseminate quickly what information there was, and to support those affected. In the years that followed, thousands more died, and tens of thousands became infected with HIV in the UK. In the late 1980s, the Conservative government, through the leadership of health secretary Norman Fowler, launched a mass public health campaign, the scale of which has not been seen since. The whole of Britain knew of the threat of Aids.

Go readthe rest

Were you ever Gay in Birmingham?

2007-07-09T12:17:00.000+01:00

Gay Birmingham Remembered, a heritage lottery funded gay history project, would appreciate your help in circulating information round your networks. We are interested in hearing from anyone who has associations with, or lived in Birmingham in the past, but has since moved away. We are seeking personal accounts, memories and memorabilia from as far back as anyone can remember, to the present day, about living, working, studying or playing in Birmingham. I attach a sheet of background information. We recognise that the gay community is not static and that many former residents now live elsewhere and we want to ensure that some of those stories are included in our history, especially if, for example, they played a role in developing the political, cultural or social scene in Birmingham or conversely, if they left Birmingham because of reasons related to their sexuality (e.g. experiences of hate crime or (fear of) rejection by family or local community).

If people would like to contribute, please get in touch by writing to lesley(AT)gaybirminghamremembered(DOT)org(DOT)uk

Homophobic bullying ‘almost epidemic’ in British Schools

2007-06-26T10:33:00.000+01:00

A major survey of Britain’s secondary schools has revealed that almost two thirds of lesbian and gay pupils (156,000 children) have been victims of homophobic bullying.

The School Report, the largest poll of young gay people ever conducted in this country, presents a shocking picture of the extent of homophobic bullying undertaken by fellow pupils and, alarmingly, school staff.

Key findings are:

· Sixty five per cent of lesbian and gay pupils have experienced homophobic bullying
· Of those, 92 per cent (143,000) have experienced verbal homophobic bullying, 41 per cent

(64,000) physical bullying and 17 per cent (26,000) death threats
· 97 per cent of gay pupils hear derogatory phrases such as ‘dyke’, ‘queer’ and ‘rug-

muncher’ used in school
· Half of teachers fail to respond to homophobic language when they hear it
· Thirty per cent of lesbian and gay pupils say that adults - teachers or support staff - are

responsible for homophobic incidents in their school
· Less than a quarter of schools have told pupils that homophobic bullying is wrong

The survey of 1,145 young people, conducted by the Schools Health Education Unit for Stonewall, also highlights the consequences of bullying for gay pupils. Seven out of ten of those who have experienced it say it has adversely affected their school work. Half of those bullied say they have missed school as a result.

“These deeply disturbing figures should serve as a wake-up call to everyone working in education,” said Matthew Batten, Stonewall Cymru’s Policy Officer. “This is a damning legacy of Section 28, which deterred schools from tackling anti-gay bullying for so long. This remains one of the few sorts of bullying about which too many schools still take no action. It blights the lives not just of gay children but of thousands of pupils perceived to be lesbian or gay too.”

The report does demonstrate significant benefits when schools intervene. In schools that have said homophobic bullying is wrong, gay young people are 60 per cent more likely not to have been bullied. The incidence of anti-gay bullying remains higher in ‘faith schools’.

Matthew Batten added “We know in Wales many teachers want to do the right thing by tackling homophobic bullying but feel they don’t have the tools to do so or they worry they won’t have the support of senior colleagues. Schools and local authorities that are engaging with our Education for All campaign are realising that they can make a real difference.”

Young gay people in Wales who are experiencing homophobic bullying said:

“I can’t tell anyone because, basically, no-one knows that I am gay… I got punched in the corridor today for example, and I can’t tell a teacher because it will involve coming out.” Nick, 14, secondary school (Wales)

“I was once threatened by a friend’s brother over an instant message that he would beat me to death on the streets if he saw me or torch my house whilst I’m sleeping in it.” Sean, 16, secondary school (Wales)

Case studies available on request

For media enquiries contact: Matthew Batten, Policy Officer on 029 2023 7744 or Vicky Powell, Communications Officer, (020 7593 1857 / 07985 439 660) Out of hours media enquiries 07985 439 660.

Notes

The School Report survey, of 1,145 pupils, was conducted by the Schools Health Education Unit on behalf of Stonewall. 48 per cent of the sample is girls; 12 per cent attend private schools.
There are four million pupils in British secondary schools. Government actuaries estimate that six per cent of the population is lesbian or gay

‘Section 28’ of the 1988 Local Government Act made ‘promotion’ of homosexuality unlawful. It was widely understood by schools to forbid them from addressing anti-gay bullying
Publication of the School Report was made possible with the support of Ian McKellen, IBM and the Paul Hamlyn Foundation

Stonewall Cymru is the all-Wales lesbian and gay equality organisation. http://www.stonewallcymru.org.uk/

Homophobic Hate Crime: Under reported and on the Increase

2007-06-25T14:03:00.000+01:00

From the BBC.

Recorded crimes against gay and lesbian people in Wales are on the increase but most offences go unreported, a BBC Wales investigation has found.

As many as four out of five people from gay communities will be verbally abused at some time in
their lives while three out of five will be assaulted.

But, it is claimed, most attacks go unreported because of victims' fears.

Stonewall Cymru has called for tougher laws to crack down on incitement to homophobic hatred.
BBC Wales' Eye on Wales programme found that reports of abuse and assault against gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities, while on the increase, are thought to represent the tip of the iceberg.

The Home Office estimates around 90% of homophobic hate crime goes unreported.

Decriminalisation Anniversary

2007-06-25T13:58:00.000+01:00

A couple of interesting reports from the Guardian online, one on how things have changed since decriminalisation in 1967, the 40th anniversary of which will be on 5th July. And one in which some prominent gay figures talk about the effect it had on their lives.

Army not to be identifiable at Pride

2007-06-22T12:27:00.000+01:00

From The Pink News.

A split has emerged in the Armed Forces over the issue of London's Pride march on the 30th June.

The Chief of the General Staff has issued orders banning LGB Army staff from marching in unifom at the event or from wearing anything that would identify their Army role.

It seems that General Dannatt is "concerned that participation or recruitment at Pride may damage the Army's reputation."

That rather puts it where it's at doesn't it? The Army is supposed to be welcoming to minorities, but is apparently more concerned about what its homophobic potential recruits might think. So basically, the armed forces will be officially closeted at Pride.

School's Out Blog

2007-06-22T12:10:00.000+01:00

School's Out, the campaign for equality in education for LGBT people have a new blog.

Gay's the Word

2007-06-22T12:07:00.000+01:00

The last surviving LGBT bookshop in the UK is under threat of closure. Visit the website if you want to help try and save it.

UK & Ireland Conference for people living with HIV and AIDS

2007-06-19T15:40:00.000+01:00

The 2007 UK & Ireland Conference of People Living with HIV and AIDS (plwha) will be held in London on 18-19 September. In addition to any individuals attending the conference in their own right, we hope to find 3 PLWHA Regional Representatives to put forward the views of Welsh citizens living with HIV. This will be done through a series of local focus groups and a regional meeting to select representatives via a transparent election process.

Focus Groups

As a conferencing partner, THT Cymru intends to support a number of focus groups throughout Wales, with up to 12 plwha attending each event. Each group will be led by people living with HIV.

The dates are as follows:
In Newport we will hold one group on 21 June. Venue: Staff room, Newport GUM. Time 1-3pm
In Cardiff we will hold one focus group on 25 June. Venue: THT Centre, Cardiff. Time 2pm-4pm
In Swansea we will hold one focus group on 29 June. Venue: ATC/Swish Centre, Swansea. Time 11am-1pm

We have not yet arranged any meetings in North Wales. Please let me know if anyone is interested in getting together with others to canvas opinions

Aims of the focus groups

The aims of the 2-hour focus groups are as follows:
Gather and share information to empower plwha as well as feed back and influence policies and services
Highlight regional differences (if any) to help define themes for debate at the 2007 UK & Ireland Conference of People Living with HIV and AIDS
Enable participants to get a better awareness of what services are available to them regionally

To book a free place

To keep the focus groups to a manageable size we are restricting them to twelve participants. If you would like to attend one of these events or need more information, please contact Joseph Chambers with your email details on joseph.chambers@tht.org.uk (Cardiff & Newport events) or Cerian Wathan on cerian@aidstrustcymru.co.uk (Swansea event).

Regional Meeting

We will then hold a Regional Meeting in THT Cardiff Centre for reps from all the focus groups and other plwha who wish to attend on 4 July 2007, Time: 1-4pm. There may be some changes to this event if those chosen as representatives are unable to meet but we will email again on 2nd July to confirm. (or check SEW LGB Forum blog for news.)

Wales HIV Network

THT Cymru was successful in bidding for Welsh Assembly Government funding for one more year of the HIV Network. Events, such as those above, will help feed your views into planning HIV services across Wales. If you would like to be included on our mailing/email list please contact THT on 02920 666465 or send your details to info.cymru@tht.org.uk.

With profuse apologies for such short notice!

Robjohn
National Manager for Wales
Rheolydd Cenedlaithol Cymru

Can you help Stonewall Cymru with campaigning and media work

2007-06-19T11:13:00.001+01:00

Stonewall Cymru is looking for the stories and experiences of lesbian, gay and bisexual people to inform our campaigning and lobbying work. If you have encountered discrimination or have another experience that would help us with our work, we would like to keep a record of your story. Very occasionally, and only with your permission, we may offer your story to the media to highlight the issues facing LGB communities.

Stonewall Cymru also receives many media enquiries asking for gay people to speak about their positive experiences. We're looking to promote positive examples of lesbians, gay men and bisexuals to challenge negative perceptions. If you are interested in challenging these negative perceptions, please fill in this Case Study Form and let us know the type of media work you would feel comfortable doing.

There are many areas in which we need your help:

Parenting - Lesbian and gay parents, either biological parents or non-biological parents who have children through adoption or fostering.

Education - Young people who have experienced homophobia in education in the last few years, including those with a positive experience of how their school/college dealt with it.

Education - Teachers or education staff who have witnessed homophobia against students or staff, including those with positive experiences of how their school/college dealt with the incidents.

Employment - People who have encountered discrimination, bullying or harassment in employment due to their sexuality or perceived sexuality.

Health Care - People who have had positive or negative experiences of health care in the UK because of their sexuality.

Housing - People who have faced housing problems due to their sexuality.

Hate Crime - People who have experienced homophobic hate crime.

Incitement to Hatred - People who have come across calls, either verbally or in publications, for verbal or physical assaults to be made against gay people.

Goods and Services - People who have experienced discrimination in the UK in the provision of goods or services because of their sexuality or perceived sexuality, e.g. people refused a room in a hotel or turned away from a pub or bar.

Civil Partnerships - People who plan to have a civil partnership in the near future.

General - People who are willing to speak about their experiences, positive or negative, of being gay, lesbian or bisexual and who would like to be considered for inclusion in general media stories in the future.

If you are able to help in any of these areas, please complete this Case Study Form and tell us your story.

Many thanks for your help.

To find out how you can get involved in the LookOut Media Project click here.

Stand up for us: Anti-homophobic bullying resource

2007-06-18T13:50:00.000+01:00

Via Swansea PSE Blog.

The DfES has produced a very useful resource called 'Stand up for us' to support schools in challenging homophobia. The resource has only been provided to schools in England and there is no equivalent in Wales. However, the key messages and tools are equally valid for use in Wales and I would therefore encourage schools to make use of it.

Stand up for us aims to help schools to challenge homophobia in the context of developing an inclusive, safer and more successful school environment for all. It is intended for anyone who works in early years settings, primary, secondary and special schools, off-site units and Pupil Referral Units (PRUs).

A series of ten associated resources has been developed to support many of the activities outlined in this briefing. They include further information about homophobia and relevant legislation and guidance, a range of material for teachers and an outline staff training session.

Download the Stand up for us publication (1MB, PDF format)

Paper copies of the Stand up for us publication are available from: Health Development Agency, PO Box 90, Wetherby Yorkshire LS23 7EX.Tel: 0870 121 4194; Fax: 0870 121 4195. Email: hda@twoten.press.net Please quote ISBN: 1-84279-200-8

2007-06-15T14:03:00.000+01:00

Gay vicar banned from sex.

Weird situation!

Brighton: not quite the gay utopia it's supposed to be?

2007-06-15T10:58:00.000+01:00

From the Pink News.

Research into the levels of homophobia on the streets of the UK's gayest city has revealed that three-quarters of gay, lesbian, bisexual or trans residents residents have been on the receiving end of physical or verbal abuse in the last five years.

900 of the estimated 35,000 LGBT residents of Brighton and Hove took part in the Count Me In Too report by the University of Brighton and Spectrum LGBT forum.

Vital Statistics

2007-06-12T16:07:00.000+01:00

If you're a gay man in the UK don't forget to fill in the new Sigma research survey Vital Statistics.

What do you Need Survey

2007-06-12T11:46:00.000+01:00

What Do You Need– a health, social care and information needs assessment of people with diagnosed HIV in the UK

This summer Sigma Research are running one of the largest surveys of the social care, support and information needs of people living with HIV in the world. The survey is called What Do You Need?. The findings should inform service developments as well as feeding directly into the development of a national Living Well framework for people with HIV in the UK. Sigma Research has been commissioned to undertake the survey and co-ordinate the development of the framework by Terrence Higgins Trust.

The survey is open to all people living with HIV over 16 years of age and can be filled out either online or by a self-complete booklet which will be available at HIV and social care organisations throughout June, July and August 2007. It’s available in English and French, is completely anonymous and will take about 20 minutes to complete.

The participation of people from all backgrounds is essential to the survey’s success. If you are a person living with HIV, this is your chance to make sure that your voice is heard and that your experience influences future services.

The survey can be completed online. Start NOW by clicking here

Mardi Gras fundraiser at Golden Cross/Club X on 13th June 2007

2007-06-11T13:19:00.000+01:00

The Golden Cross and Club X have an absolutely sparkling array of guests lined up for the Mardi Gras fundraiser on 13th June. Start the evening in the Golden Cross with a light snack (food served until 6.00pm) and happy hour from 5-8pm then enjoy a packed evening of entertainment under the control of Kitty Litter (!!)

Later in the evening move on to Club X where the entertainment continues with Marcia; Pixie Perez; Wendy Kane and even Kitty Litter (once she’s tottered over from the Golden) in the fabulous Club X theatre (what’s this? You’ll need to be there to find out).

We’ll also be presenting the Mardi Gras Rainbow Award to Wales’s Scene Personality in Club X in the early hours of the morning which gives you a chance to meet Cardiff’s own “Celebrigay”!

During the course of the evening you’ll be able to buy raffle tickets in the Mardi Gras drawer where Club X are donating DVD players; booze and other exciting prizes and also lose some of that nasty change and even nastier notes in our buckets to help make sure your event takes place.

The Golden Cross is open all afternoon but food only served until 6pm. Club X opens from 10.00 and their usual Wednesday door entry offer of £10 (which gets you 7 drinks) or £5 (which gets you 3 drinks) applies.

Why not make a night of it and take Thursday off work too?

And if you can’t make this one join us in the Kings Cross for our regular last Wednesday fundraiser (next one on 27th June) or Sunday 29th July in Exit Bar for their Gold Awards Mardi Gras fundraiser night. We’ll send you more details on these closer to the dates and look forward to seeing you on 13th June.

Cardiff Gender Equality Scheme

2007-06-08T12:24:00.000+01:00

If you live in Cardiff and are interested in influencing policy, you might like to read and comment on the Council's draft Gender Equality Scheme.

Gay Victims of Domestic Abuse urged to seek help

2007-06-08T10:24:00.000+01:00

Via The Pink News.

Victims of domestic abuse in same-sex relationships are being urged to seek help from the police and victim support organisations.

Research suggests that domestic abuse is as common, and as severe, in same-sex couples as among heterosexual couples.

Two women a week and 30 men a year die in England and Wales as a result of domestic abuse.

In the past, same-sex partner abuse has not always been recognised as a major issue, either by the LGBT community or by the police.

I don't think it's simply the case that the LGBT community don't recognise domestic abuse as a problem; I think we don't like to talk about it outside the community for various reasons, including fear of giving homophobic people more ammunition against us.

Stonewall Women's Health Survey

2007-06-01T11:18:00.000+01:00

Stonewall have produced a women's health survey for lesbian, bisexual women and women who sleep with women.

This is really important because we often fall through the gaps in terms of health services, so do fill it in. It only takes about 15 minutes.

Dr guilty of serious professional misconduct

2007-05-29T11:02:00.001+01:00

From The Guardian.

Dr Russell Reid -- the UK's best known expert in transsexualism -- has been found guilty of serious professional misconduct for rushing 5 people into hormone treatment and surgery inappropriately, but he has not been struck off.

The disciplinary panel ruled that Dr Reid must no longer prescribe patients with sex-changing hormones at the first appointment, nor without a firm diagnosis that they are transsexual or a proper psychiatric assessment.

The panel determined that the consultant psychiatrist was too quick to provide patients with hormones and to refer them for genital surgery.

"The panel considers that the seriousness of your misconduct lies in your lack of caution in initiating hormonal and surgical gender reassignment treatment in these patients without more careful and through investigation and assessment," said John Shaw, the panel chairman.

"The panel therefore determined that your misconduct was serious, and that you are guilty of serious professional misconduct."

This is a difficult case and if you read the article you'll see that views on Dr Reid vary and that he still commands a great deal of support and respect from the transgender community too.

Of course, it's essential that people are not rushed into life-changing treatment inappropriately, but the medical establishment doesn't seem so keen to pay attention to the serious affects of not getting treatment quickly enough. In Wales the waiting list for surgery is about 5 years and suicide attempts have increased as a consequence. So I do hope that Dr Reid's case will not now be used to slow down the process unnecessarily and cause more distress.

Guide to the Sexual Orientation Regulations

2007-05-29T10:48:00.000+01:00

Stonewall has provided clearly understandable Guidance to the Sexual Orientation Regulations 2007: The Colour of your Money. You can download it from the site.

Rights in theory ...

2007-05-29T10:42:00.000+01:00

From the Pink News

The first study of the impact of the employment equality regulations, which grant protection for LGB people in the workplace, has found that many employees who go to a tribunal suffer financially and emotionally. The regulations on sexual orientation and religion or belief were introduced in 2003.

Employees who have tried to resolve disputes over discrimination under new equality regulations have ended up facing demotion, dismissal, career changes, mental health problems including depression or anxiety, financial difficulties, relationship problems and having to move house. Some even contemplated suicide.

Sadly, LGBT people often find that although we've been given certain legal rights and protections in theory, actually getting them in the real world is a different matter altogether. This is why we need organisations to keep up the pressure on employers to make sure laws are actually put into practice.

Stonewall Cymru needs a new Director

2007-05-25T10:36:00.000+01:00

Director - £34k

Stonewall Cymru has established a sound reputation for improving the lives of lesbian, gay and bisexual people across Wales. From lobbying for civil partnership to providing community support, Stonewall has made a difference. We're now seeking a focused self-starter able to ensure that future achievements are embedded and built upon.

Visit Stonewall Cymru for more details

Cyfarwyddydd - £34k

Mae Stonewall Cymru wedi ennill enw da am wella bywydau pobl lesbiaidd, hoyw a deurywiol ledled Cymru. O lobïo dros bartneriaeth sifil i ddarparu cefnogaeth gymunedol, mae Stonewall wedi gwneud gwahaniaeth. Rydym yn chwilio am hunan-ysgogydd ymroddedig sy'n medru sicrhau bod llwyddiannau'r dyfodol yn cael eu sefydlu a'u cadarnhau.

Ewch at: Swyddicymru

Progress!

2007-05-23T17:13:00.001+01:00

From The Guardian.

Up to 90% of the British population support the ban on discrimination against gays and lesbians, according to new research.

Despite the protestations of some church leaders, as many as 85% specifically back the sexual orientation regulations, which make discrimination against gays and lesbians in the provision of goods and services an offence. The YouGov survey of 2,000 Britons shows that "people of faith" were as likely to support gay equality as members of the wider population.

The vast majority also called for tougher steps to confront homophobia to be taken by government, workplaces, schools and the media.

The polling, conducted for the charity Stonewall, depicts a society predominantly at ease with one of the key social changes of the past 20 years.

I think there's still plenty of homophobia out there and we've got a long way to go yet, but this is really good news because it indicates that public attitudes are shifting. Now we need to keep up the pressure to make sure those tougher steps are taken.

For Lesbian Readers ...

2007-05-22T15:31:00.000+01:00

A social event: from the WomenZone website I see that tickets for the women-only lesbian surf camp are being snapped up, so get over there and order some if you're planning on going.

It's 13th - 14th July at Llangennith on the Swansea Gower.

The lovely Gower

Clarkson Rapped for Homophobic comment

2007-05-21T13:22:00.000+01:00

Jeremy Clarkson has had his knuckles rapped by Ofcom for responding to an audience member's comment that he wouldn't buy a two-seater Daihatsu Copen because "it's a bit gay" with the quip "A bit gay, yes, very ginger beer" - rhyming slang for "queer".

While it's good that Ofcom are making a stand on this one, I suspect someone like Clarkson is likely to appreciate any publicity which contributes to the generally anti-politically correct macho image he likes to cultivate.

However, Ben Dowell in The Guardian makes it clear why such incidents can't be allowed to pass without comment:

How many children at primary or secondary school, perhaps wrestling with their sexuality, have become more intimated or fearful as a result of comments like this, and the idea that they are acceptable. How many are now thinking that somehow they are effete, different, unmanly just because of their sexual orientation. What right does Jeremy Clarkson have to add to the misery of anyone?

Rainbow Awards

2007-05-21T13:10:00.000+01:00

The Cardiff Mardi Gras committee anounces the winners of the first Rainbow Awards.

Congratulations to all who won.

Long-term effects of homophobia in schools

2007-05-21T12:59:00.000+01:00

Anti-gay slurs have a lasting effect on future generations.

Playground bullying and classroom teasing is nothing new, of course. There are few among us who can't recall at least one incidence of feeling picked on in school. Still, the rise in gay-related taunts and abuse has serious ramifications for how the next generation views gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered individuals. The negative associations of such language are evident even when the recipient of such taunts isn't old enough to fully understand them.

This is an American article, but it's very relevant to the UK where homophobic bullying has also been on the rise in recent years. As long as homophobia is tolerated and normalised in schools, we'll be keeping it alive in the future.

Gay and Bisexual Men at Higher Risk of developing Eating Disorders

2007-05-18T10:59:00.000+01:00

This article has a rather silly title -- of course men are not "immune" to eating disorders! -- but it is important to take account of issues that disproportionately affect LGB people's health when campaigning for better services.

Gay and bisexual men have an extremely high prevalence of eating disorders, according to a study published last month by the International Journal of Eating Disorders .

More than 15 percent of gay and bisexual men who participated in the study had suffered at least some symptoms of an eating disorder, as opposed to 4.6 percent of the straight men.

IDAHO

2007-05-17T13:52:00.000+01:00

Today is the International Day Against Homophobia.

In a world where 77 countries punish women, men and children because of their sexuality an International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO) provides a platform for everyone to make a powerful statement to demand improvements for peoples quality of life Overseas and in the UK.

The day can be used to raise awareness of homophobic issues that are negatively impacting on people’s lives and to also showcase success stories where a positive change has been achieved.

Click on the link for more information.

Here's to a world in which we can all one day live safely without fear of homophobia.

Mardi Gras Arts Competition

2007-05-15T22:52:00.000+01:00

CPS: Opportunity for Consultation

2007-05-15T12:52:00.000+01:00

From Stonewall Cymru.

The Crown Prosecution Service Policy for Prosecuting Cases of Homophobic or Transphobic Hate Crime has been revised - consultation opportunity until 25th May.

This an opportunity for LGB and T people to consider the process of prosecution cases of homophobic and transphobic hate crime, and alert the CPS to any points regarding the procedure that may need further consideration.

The CPS have made a number of significant legislative developments since the first policy was published in 2002, and so this reviewed policy is very comprehensive.

Go to the Stonewall Cymru site if you want to take part in the consultation.

Homophobia in the Police

2007-05-15T12:20:00.000+01:00

From the Guardian: Institutional Homophobia in the Police.

Scotland Yard's reaction to murders and attacks on the gay community has been marred by "institutional" homophobia, it has been reported.

An independent review into how the Metropolitan Police handled investigations into the murders of 10 gay men or transsexuals between 1990 and 2002 found officers were hampered by a lack of knowledge, reliance of stereotypes and personal prejudices.

The report was sanctioned by the Met Police and written by its independent Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Advisory Group (LGBT IAG).

While this is bad news, the fact that the problem is being openly acknowledged and discussed suggests positive changes are also underway.

The SEWales Forum has a very good relationship with local Police forces and we know they're working hard to address homophobia and take LGBT needs into account.

Gay and Lesbian Employees Afraid to Come Out in the UK

2007-05-15T12:11:00.000+01:00

According to Managing Diversity:

Almost one half of all gay and lesbian employees in Britain are afraid to come out at work, a new survey suggests.

According to the poll, many gay workers still hide their sexual orientation from their colleagues because of fears that they will be discriminated against or harassed if they are open about their sexuality.

Conducted by specialist gay marketing consultancy, Out Now Consulting, the report calls on bosses to outline what is deemed acceptable and unacceptable behaviour and examine equal opportunities policies closely.

The study indicates that up to one in ten gay men and one in eight lesbians face workplace harassment because of their sexual orientation, affecting skills retention, recruitment and productivity.

Released following the surprise resignation of BP chief Lord Browne over his admission that he had lied about a gay relationship, the survey indicates that Britain still has a long way to go before discrimination and homophobia are eradicated from UK workplaces.

Well I suppose the good news is this survey also suggests that over half of all gay and lesbian employees are not afraid to come out at work, but it’s still a pretty damning report. In my own working life, I’ve felt safe to come out in two of my five jobs and in one office in particular I knew the consequences would be homophobic bullying if I said anything.

A lot of employers seems to be talking the talk about diversity these days, but we do need to be sure that they’re putting the policies into practice.