Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transexual

The Government estimates the gay, lesbian and bisexual (LGB) population at between 5% and 7% and this is supported by Stonewall.  Nationally the Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles indicates that either same sex relationships are increasing or people are more willing to report it.

The LGB population is mainly where an LGB community has become established. Newcastle has the largest LGB population in the force area and this is reinforced by figures relating to the number of same-sex couples and reported hate crime.

In their everyday lives, both at work and at home, lesbian, gay and bisexual people are forced to decide if they should be open and honest about their sexuality. This can cause a huge amount of stress, discrimination and inequality.

A recent Stonewall survey (Serves you right, Stonewall 2008) implied LGB people in the region are more likely to feel negative about their treatment by the police and justice system. 

The number of people in the UK identifed as trans gender is estimated to be between 1 in 100 to as many as 1 in 20.  Trans gender refers to anyone with a gender identity which is medically or psychologically different to their birth sex, and / or expresses their gender in different ways to society’s expectations. The Trans community is identified within this Scheme with the LGB group as the communities of identity often support each other’s campaigns and provide common advice services.  However, the Force has a specific responsibility to Trans men and women through our Gender Equality work. The need to improve equality for LGB and T people and addressing the negative perceptions is essential to improve public confidence and build a diverse workforce which reflects the communities we serve.

Within Northumbria Police’s workforce there are LGB and T employees. However, accurate employment data is not yet available. Our commitments to address this are enclosed in our Action Plan.