About ASLEF
LGBT Equality
The LGBT Representative Committee is for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered members.
ASLEF welcomed the recent Civil Partnership legislation and the forthcoming legislation that will give protection to LGB people in their procurement of goods and services. But we are continuing to campaign for transgender people to be included in the legislation.
Other campaigns include the campaign for equality in pension's benefits for all same sex partners. We have had some success in this as the Railways Pension's Fund Trustees have acknowledged the rights of Civil Partners.
Homophobic bullying and harassment is also an important issue for the committee and they provide a very useful focal point for members who may be experiencing such problems. It is recognised that many of our lesbian and gay members may not be "out" at work and the committee provides a confidential mailing list for members who may wish to receive information confidentially. It is hoped that the existence of the committee will give some members the confidence to "come out" to their work mates without the fear of harassment or bullying taking place.
The confidential mailing list for LGBT members is the main way of getting information out about matters of interest to those members. The mailing list is held by the Equalities Administrator at ASLEF Head Office and promises complete confidentiality to all those on the list. Mailings go out periodically and advises LGBT members of events and information that may be of use to them. You do not need to be 'out' at work to go on to the mailing list. If you want to add your details contact Head Office on 0207 317 8600.
The committee have also been working on the ASLEF HIV/AIDS policy that was produced some time ago by ASLEF activist Jim Peters. This excellent workplace policy has been condensed into a smaller pamphlet, which will 'signpost' any Rep or member who needs support, advice or information on this issue. This is particularly important because people with HIV/AIDS are now protected from discrimination by the Government's disability legislation. The work has been done in conjunction with ASLEF's Black and Ethnic Minority Representative Committee (BEMRC).
ASLEF sends a full delegation to the TUC LGBT Conference. In 2009 they submitted a motion on the need for a 24 hour hate crime hotline.
Susan Greenwell, Secretary of the LGBT Representative Committee holds a position on the TUC National LGBT Committee and other members of the committee are involved in regional groups of the TUC.
An ASLEF LGBT delegation attends Pride events every year and the ASLEF LGBT banner can be seen in the parades in London and Brighton. At Brighton Pride the committee also have an information stall for members of the public.
The LGBT Representative Committees aims and objectives are:
The LGBT Representative Committee aims to represent the interests of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered members of ASLEF and underlines the fundamental belief of this trade union that everyone has the right to be treated fairly and with respect.
We are opposed to all forms of harassment, bullying and victimisation and are committed to achieving a workplace free from such practices.
We will strive to eradicate prejudice and discrimination.
We aim to achieve change through education and to offer advice, information and support to all members in confidence.
The committee publishes a newsletter entitled 'Facing Points'. This is avaliable on the ASLEF website. Click here to view the Equality publications.
Advice for Lesbian and Gay Equality from the TUC - 'The TUC has long campaigned for true equality for gay people in every aspect of their lives. Lord Alli's goods and services amendment to the Equality Bill will ensure that lesbians and gay men can no longer be turned away or refused services by companies that discriminate against gay people as customers' said TUC General Secretary Brenadan Barber. Click here for more details.
WEAR YOU BADGE WITH PRIDE - ASLEF LGBT BADGE - The ASLEF badge celebrating our lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgendered membership is available free to ASLEF members on request. Please contact Head Office for more information
| Useful Addresses |
Broken Rainbow - Support for LGBT people experiencing domestice violence. Helpline: 08452 604 460 Website: www.broken-rainbow.org.uk
Stonewall - National campaigning organisation for LGBT people. Tel: 0207 881 9440
Press for Change - Organisation campaigning for equal rights for transgendered people. Email: letters@pfc.org.uk
The Gender Trust - UK charity helping adults who are transexuals. Tel: 01273 234 024
Mermaids - Support group for children and teenagers with gender identity issues. Helpline: 07020 935 066
Terrance Higgins Trust - Charity offering support on HIV and AIDS, Tel: 0845 1221 200 Email: info@tht.org.uk
