Ensuring the union is LGBT+ friendly
[ch 4: page 35]Many unions have LGBT+ networks, forums or self-organised groups that run their own campaigns, support LGBT+ members in branches and workplaces and provide space for the discussion of LGBT+ issues. The GMB general union, for example, has regional LGBT+ self-organised groups (SOGs) under the banner Shout!
Unions at the workplace or branch can take steps to make LGBT+ members, who may or may not be “out” feel more included. Unite suggests this can be done by:
• electing (where union rules allow) an equalities officer or ideally a lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT+) members officer, who can be a confidential point of contact for other members;
• thinking about the logistics of branch meetings and whether they take into consideration the needs of LGBT+ people;
• ensuring that any branch policies refer specifically to discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, gender expression and transitioning and are inclusive of non-binary people and that unnecessary references to gender are removed;
• trying to locate LGBT+ members and talk to them about their issues: face-to-face, through surveys and workplace mapping;
• considering arranging speakers or videos around LGBT+ issues;
• distributing materials from the union on LGBT+ campaigns; and
• working to recruit LGBT+ members, for example by attending Pride events.
Unite’s Branch equality officers guide is available on its website.