Agenda item

The Policy Insight Analyst introduced a report that summarised the range and type of events available for members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Transgender (LGBT) community in Slough.

At the meeting held on 26th September 2019, Full Council had resolved to request that ‘..the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee, working with local partners, charities and our staff network, ensure the range of equality and inclusivity events run or supported by the Council are as wide and diverse as possible’.  In particular, the Council had expressed an interest in the range and type of events run in Slough for members of the LGBT community. 

Members were informed that the Council did not employ an officer who solely dealt with issues surrounding equality and inclusivity in the community.  Instead, furthering equality was ‘mainstreamed’ – meaning it formed part of the responsibilities of various officers working across the Council.

A summary of some of the events and groups aimed at members of the LGBT community was provided to the Committee.  In addition, Members were advised that there were ongoing plans to organise a Slough Pride event in 2020.  The Regional Co-Secretary for LGBT+ at Unison was currently exploring funding options to support the event.

The Chair thanked the Policy Insight Analyst for the report and invited Members to comment and ask questions.

A Member highlighted the importance of promoting the inclusion of disabled people and asked if there were events and forums in Slough, aimed at engaging with people with physical and mental disabilities.  In addition, the role of the Council as an employer, in promoting inclusion was highlighted. It was agreed that the offer to disabled people in Slough was a matter that could be considered in the future. 

In response to a query, the Policy Insight Analyst explained that the Government’s new regulations made it compulsory for all primary aged pupils to be taught about relationships and all secondary aged pupils to be taught relationships and sex education. 

Councillor Smith was then invited by the Chair to address the Committee

under Rule 30.

Councillor Smith asked why the arrangements for a Slough Pride event were being undertaken by a Unison representative rather than residents.  He raised concern that residents had not been involved in the arrangements for the event and he said a number of residents had reported difficulties contacting the Unison representative.  In addition, he sought clarification regarding the funding for the Pride event.

In response, the Policy Insight Analyst explained that the Unison representative was also a local resident, who was passionate about establishing a Pride event in Slough.  The event would be resident and not Council led.  In relation to funding, it was explained that the event would not be funded by the Council; and several funding applications were currently being pursued.

Resolved – That the report be noted.