January 2006 is Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans history month

The LGBT Survey has now closed - thank you to all who took part. 

The Teacher Support Network survey for Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender History Month has just finished. The survey so far reveals:

• 77% have experienced discrimination or harassment because of their sexual orientation or gender identity
• 90% have suffered homophobic harassment or discrimination

Of this discrimination and harassment:

• 75% have suffered discrimination and harassment by pupils
• 47% by colleagues
• 42% by managers

67% said this reduced their self-confidence while 50% said it reduced their effectiveness as a teacher. 43% became ill and stressed and 11% took sick leave because of this.

Patrick Nash said:

"The results of this survey show that the negative experiences of homosexual, bisexual and transgender teachers are widespread, leaving them feeling stressed, often alienated and unsupported, with one in five respondents saying they are scared to go to work as a result.

"Teacher Support Network believes it is vital that every teacher, regardless of their sexual orientation or identity, be provided with adequate support by their school or college against any form of harassment or bullying.

"It is important that schools and colleges have codes of conduct in place, which not only cover sexual harassment and discrimination, but also that relate specifically to homophobic, biphobic or transphobic issues. School heads and governors should ensure that these codes of conduct are properly enforced to protect both staff and students from being bullied or subjected to malicious allegations."