The LGBT Equalities Network was established in West Dunbartonshire in October 2007. The Network includes members from Community Planning Partners including, Strathclyde Police, WDC Community Learning & Development Service, West Dunbartonshire Domestic Abuse Partnership, Voluntary Sector representatives from Ysortit and Street Links, Clydebank College and West Dunbartonshire Community Planning Partnership Community Support Team. The network aims to raise awareness of LGBT issues, challenge negative attitudes and homophobia and ensure that the LGBT community iss consulted in service design and delivery.
An awareness raising campaign in West Dunbartonshire in 2007 linked in with LGBT History month celebrating diversity events and training was also provided for staff from partner organisation in LGBT awareness raising to pass onto colleagues, Click here see poster from the campaign.
This included raising a flag at Council offices at Garshake and Rosebery and a light display at the Titan crane. The Flagraisings at Council buildings have became an annual event and has raised awareness of LGBT issues in West Dunbartonshire. The network has developed an action plan although it is seeking to identify resources to take this forward.
For further information please contact the Policy Development Officer, Community Planning and Policy Team, at community.planning@west-dunbarton.gov.uk or Shona Bruce at shona.bruce@west-dunbarton.gov.uk
LGBT History Month
LGBT History Month gives an opportunity to celebrate the lives of people throughout history who today might identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender in February each year. It provides groups, organisations and individuals with the opportunity to explore these hidden histories that have often been ignored or hidden. February 2007 saw nearly 200 events across Scotland ranging from exhibitions to story-telling events, to film screenings, to LGBT nights in pubs and clubs.
For further details of LGBT Month, see the LGBT history month website http://www.lgbthistory.org.uk, including details of events, news and resources.
The Council's Equality Scheme 2009-12 includes a section on LGBT equality. To view the Council's Equality Scheme 2009-12 click here.
