Protection against discrimination on the grounds of sexuality is a new area of equality legislation and is provided in the areas of employment and training under the Employment (Sexual Orientation) Regulations 2003.
The absence of legislation protecting the rights of lesbian, gay and bisexual people and against discrimination has meant that responding to their needs has been a choice. However, a shift to citizen focused approaches and a renewed impetus to challenge institutional discrimination means that authorities must place equality and diversity centre stage. They must engage with marginalised and hard to reach communities to meet their duties under community planning and the improvement agenda.
The introduction of civil partnerships will also require local authorities to adapt and respond to this new agenda.
For more information contact: Paula Walters