'No compromise on equality' (From Mid Devon Star)

'No compromise on equality'

7:00am Saturday 3rd April 2010 in News

COUNCILS across the South-West have been warned not to use the recession as an excuse to cut services for gay and lesbian, bisexual or transgender people.

With many of the region’s authorities facing tough financial decisions to balance budgets, Equality South West says councils would be wrong to see equality obligations as an easy target for cuts.

Senior Equality Development Officer, Katie Pratt, said: “Our message to public sector employers is simple: you cannot compromise on equality.

“You have a legal requirement to promote equality and we’ll be watching you to ensure you meet that requirement.”

The warning comes as Equality South West prepares for a conference to mark the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT) in Taunton.

At an event on May 17, the charity will launch the interim findings of its research programme ‘Pride, Progress and Transformation’ – the region’s largest ever survey looking at the issues and needs of people in terms of their sexual orientation and gender identity.

The event at the Taunton Conference Centre is run by the South West Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Equality Network and the South West Transgender Equality Network.

Katie Pratt said: “It’s a great opportunity to find out what life is like in the South West for LGB and Trans people, and how together we can make the South West region an inclusive place to live, work and play regardless of your sexual orientation or gender identity.”

The survey, which runs until June 30, can be found at www.equalitysouthwest.org.uk/our-networks/sexual-orientation/pride-progress.html.

For more details about the IDAHOT event visit www.equalitysouthwest.org.uk