Sexual Orientation Strategy
The University aims to ensure equality of opportunity and elimination of discrimination, harassment and victimisation of staff or students whether they are or perceived to be lesbian, gay, bisexual (LGB) or heterosexual. The University believes it is the right of individuals to choose whether they wish to be open or not about their sexual orientation at work or study.
The University Equality Policy applies to all staff and students, whether they are lesbian, gay, bisexual (LGB) or heterosexual. It covers instances in which discrimination takes place because of an individual’s actual or perceived sexual orientation or for those treated less favourably because they associate with LGB or heterosexual people.
We believe it is the right of individuals to choose whether they wish to be open about their sexual orientation at work or study. We recognise that lesbians, gay men and people who are bisexual can be subject to a particular form of harassment known as “outing”, that is, the public disclosure of someone’s LGB orientation against their will. If a member of staff or student deliberately “outs” another employee or student, this could be construed as harassment and they could be subject to disciplinary action. For some lesbian women, gay men or people who are bisexual, it may be important to their dignity at work or study that they are “out” and open about their sexuality. Encouraging members of staff or students to hide their sexuality could also be viewed as harassment.
Managing Conflicting Regulatory Freedoms Religion and Belief and Sexual Orientation
The legal regulations on equality and religion and belief came into force at the same time as similar regulations in the area of sexual orientation. Situations may arise where the rights of one individual cut across the rights of another: for example, a member of staff may object to lesbian, gay and bisexuality on grounds of his or her religion or belief. The regulations do not seek to infringe anyone’s rights to hold these views, but they do prevent these views being manifested in the work or learning environment in such a way that offends, intimidates or humiliates, or is hostile or degrading to othersPolicies,procedure and guidance
Sexual Orientation Actions and Achievements
For further information about actions impacting on equality relating to sexual orientation see Single Equality Action PlanArchive
Policies and procedures
- Statement on sexual orientation and equality (2008)
- Annual report on sexual orientation and equality (2008)
Reports and monitoring
Useful links
- Lancaster University lgbtq* Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer friends of ...
- Virtual Lancaster: lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) resources for Lancaster and Morecambe area.
- Equality Challenge Unit: Sexual Orientation.
- Equality & Human Rights Commission: Sexual Orientation Equality
- Stonewall: Sexual Orientation Website
- Stonewall: University guide for current provision and prospective students