From the Teacher Support Network, www.teachersupport.info.

LGBT HISTORY MONTH

February is Lesbian Gay Bisexual Trans History Month.

Taking place every year, the month celebrates the lives and achievements of the LGBT community.

Organisers aim to “celebrate its diversity and that of the society as a whole” and encourage everyone to see diversity and cultural pluralism as the positive forces that they are and endeavour to reflect this in all we do.”

Discrimination on the basis of gender identity or sexuality is an issue in many schools. Unfortunately we are still combating a culture where homophobic terminology is routinely used as a form of abuse by pupils.

Teachers are of course affected by homophobia and other forms of discrimination, whether at the hands of pupils or colleagues. Discrimination of any kind can put a real strain on teachers, negatively affecting their wellbeing and even driving some from the profession altogether.

If you would like help or advice on how to deal with this kind of discrimination in your school, are experiencing bullying yourself, or would simply like to talk to someone about these issues, you can call our free, confidential Support Line on 08000 562 561 (England), 0800 564 2270 (Scotland) or 08000 855 088 (Wales).

You can find out more about the month here.

You may also find the following factsheets useful:

• Regulations concerning Sexual Orientation Discrimination; social issues
• Coming out
• Homophobia: advice for teachers
• Spell it out – a teachers’ guide to tackling homophobia in our schools
• Older gay, lesbian and bisexual people