Department publishes study on homophobia in Further Education sector

30 November 2007

The Department for Employment and Learning has published, as part of its Research Agenda 2007-09, ‘Scoping Study on Homophobia in the Northern Ireland Further Education (FE) Sector’.

The Department is committed to widening access to further and higher education within Northern Ireland. In line with this commitment the Department is keen to gain a better understanding of those issues which may be perceived as being chill factors to participation.

The scoping study included a literature review and key stakeholder consultations to identify and explore issues in relation to the incidence and nature of homophobia in the FE sector.

After a series of questionnaires, consultations and focus groups the scoping study concluded that there is little firm evidence of homophobia in the FE sector.  All students and staff consulted indicated that they had a positive attitude towards issues of sexual diversity and felt this would be representative of most students and staff through the sector.

Homophobia/sexual orientation policy is covered by Colleges’ equality/ harassment policies. The study highlights current good practice across the FE sector with, for example, a range of support services and training available for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transsexual or Transgender (LGBT) staff and students.  Furthermore, the findings from a series of focus groups illustrate that, where homophobic incidents have occurred, they have been dealt with appropriately and quickly.

The study concludes that there is no merit to undertaking any further research at this point in time.  However, it recommends that Colleges should consider the establishment of a LGBT ‘champion’ in each College.

This research provides a level of reassurance that homophobia is not a significant issue for the FE Sector. It also affirms that current policies and procedures are effective in terms of encouraging respect for difference, including sexuality. The recommendations are also useful in offering advice on how existing policies and procedures can be strengthened so that Colleges provide a more comprehensive approach to diversity.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

  1. The report is available to download from the Department’s website at www.delni.gov.uk/studyhomophobiafe on 30 November 2007.
  2. Media queries to the Department for Employment and Learning Press Office on 028 9025 7872
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