LGBT in HE

A new report by the Equality Challenge Unit says that the higher education sector needs to address sexual orientation and trans-status discrimination.

Based on a survey of 4205 staff and students in England, Wales and Northern Ireland the research, led by Professor Gill Valentine at the University of Leeds, found that institutions provide a positive space for LGBT students.

However, there are still high levels of homophobia and discrimination on campus, a factor that contributes to 20% of LGB and 28.5% of trans students suspending their studies. 33.8% of LGB staff and 41% of trans staff who took part in the research have experienced discrimination and abuse from colleagues.

So it seems that higher education is a relatively safe place to be, but not completely safe.