We recognise we need to be strongly connected with our local communities.  We also recognise that those authorities that can effectively reach out to all sections of their community and deliver services and employment practice in a non-discriminatory way will be the most valued.  

Devon's Lesbian, Gay Bisexual and Trans (LGBT) community is sometimes visible, sometimes invisible.  Social change and the development of the country’s legal framework mean that the visibility of marginalised groups will increase in the future, but this will take time.  But invisibility should not mean that we do nothing.  

LGBT people are employed by the Council and many join our LGBT staff network.  LGBT people also engage with the Council as representatives or stakeholders from other organisations.  

Whilst sexual orientation may not appear to be relevant to the use of all Council services, Council services are as crucial to LGBT people and it is how well these services are provided and how sensitive they are to their needs that can have a huge bearing on the quality of life to many LGBT people.

Stonewall’s Workplace Equality Index is the definitive national benchmarking exercise showcasing Britain’s top employers for lesbian, gay and bisexual staff. It ranks the top 100 employers. In 2005 we ranked 38^th, in 2006 we had dropped to 66^th, in 2007 we had fallen to 88^th.  In 2008 we had dropped out of the Top 100 but our personal score continues to improve, and our lower ranking is due to increasing competition from other organisations.

Useful links

• Intercom Trust
• Civil Partnerships
• LGBT employee resources - focus groups and employee network
• Stonewall
• PinkParents UK
• Terrence Higgins Trust
• Devon County UNISON - LGBT