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Sexual Orientation

Sexual Orientation is a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010.

The Act protects bisexual, gay, heterosexual and lesbian people. The law also covers perceived sexual orientation and discrimination by association.

Sexual orientation means a person's sexual orientation towards:

• Persons of the same sex
• Persons of the opposite sex
• Persons of either sex
  (Government Equalities Office - Equality Act 2010)

For a summary of the key legislation, see Equality Challenge Unit Guidance: Sexual Orientation: Key Legislation

The University of York's work on equality in relation to sexual orientation:

Policies: The University's Equality and Diversity Policy for students and the Equality and Diversity in Employment Policy for Staff set out the University's commitment to ensuring that everyone studying and working at the University is treated fairly and with dignity and respect whatever their sexual orientation.

LGBTI Matters: The staff Sexual Diversity and Equality Forum, launched in 2008 provides an opportunity for staff interested in equality in relation to sexual orientation to engage in consultation with the University and for networking and support opportunities. Previous sessions have included a presentation by Stonewall on the issues of addressing homophobic bullying and creating an inclusive University.

Understanding the views of Staff:  The Staff Survey 2011 has been evaluated by responses of staff who identified as gay, lesbian or bisexual (LGB). The results in terms of levels of engagement, harassment and perceived discrimination were communicated to members of the LGBTI Matters forum at the meeting in March 2012. The University is working towards gaining a better understanding of the views of its LGB staff and plans to use the results of the survey and further consultation to inform future action.

Services for Students: The Careers service provides helpful career-related information to students from different groups including students who are gay, lesbian and bisexual. The Community and Volunteering Unit encourages the involvement of students from diverse groups to engage in community and volunteering opportunities through the V Awards Project.

Understanding the views of Students: The University is seeking to gain a greater understanding of the needs of its lesbian, gay and bisexual students and to work towards implementing appropriate action in support of LGB students across its functions and services.

Supporting Students: The Open Door Team provides emotional and psychological support for students in relation to their sexual orientation.

What can I do to help promote equality at the University of York?

• Ensure that all staff and students in your department are aware that sexual orientation is a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010
• Speak out and challenge discrimination positively
• Help to eliminate harassment and report it immediately
• Play your part in promoting a culture of respect and tolerance
• Contact the Equality and Diversity Office to arrange for the Equality and Diversity Roadshow to be displayed in your department.

 

Updated by the Equality and Diversity Adviser

|May 2012

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