Our Commitments

We recognise that:

• Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (trans) people (LGBT) can face disadvantage and discrimination because of attitudes and actions based on hatred or the belief that heterosexual people are better or have more valid lifestyles;
• This is called homophobia or in the case of trans people transphobia;
• Transgender is not a sexual orientation but much of the prejudice and discrimination faced by trans people is similar to that faced by LGB people;
• Heterosexism assumes that everyone is heterosexual. It refers to a culture in which individuals, families and their lifestyles are categorised according to a heterosexual model. LGBT people may be married and have children etc;
• It is important to not assume that everyone is hetrosexual.

We will:

• Challenge heterosexism and homophobia;
• Challenge inappropriate behaviour constructively;
• Support campaigns and activities for achieving full equality, including legal equality;
• Promote positive images;
• Work with others to make Newcastle a safe place for everyone;
• Create an environment that enables everyone to feel safe if they wish to be open about their sexual orientation by acknowledging that relationships between people of the same gender are equally valid to those between men and women and by not assuming everyone is heterosexual;
• Recognise that lesbians and gay men are not always open about their sexual orientation and some may not have come to terms with their own sexual orientation. This can be due to a fear of violence, ridicule or discrimination from their family, friends or colleagues.
• Society and religion often hold homophobic views;
• Lesbians are more at risk from violence than other women due to prejudice about their sexuality;
• Same sex domestic violence incidents occur at times and housing providers should be aware of this;
• LGBT people are as diverse as any other community of people. Individuals should be treated according to need not as if 'they are all the same'.
• Be aware that people are sensitive to non-verbal communication and are likely to know when you are feeling uncomfortable around them.

Back to top