Bullying
What is homophobic or transphobic bullying?
Are you or is someone you know...
- being called names?
- being pushed, hassled or threatened?
- being beaten up, spat at or kicked?
- having your things taken or damaged?
- being made fun of or called names by anyone?
Homophobia is any abuse because you are or people think you are lesbian, gay or bisexual
Transphobia is any abuse because you are or people think you are transgender
Bullying is any action against any person or group, who may be seen as different
Personal safety
- if you can, walk away
- go somewhere safe
- keep saying the same thing -'go away... go away'
- stay alert
- try to be with people you trust - not alone
- be confident (even if you don't feel it!)
- report it immediately
What can I do about it?
- talking through your problems will make a difference and help you to think through how to sort them out
- tell someone what's happening... teacher, friends, parents and LGBT friendly organisations, including the police
- fill out a self reporting form
- report what's happening on-line
- Tell someone - Don't suffer in silence, if you can't get anyone to listen to you, contact your local LGBT group who can offer you advice and support.
Not everyone who is lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender will experience bullying in school, college or the workplace. If it does happen, it is important you tell someone.
Policies and procedures
Schools, colleges and work places should have policies and procedures that protect you from discrimination and bullying.
Don't suffer in silence, if you can't get your school, college or workplace to listen to you, contact the LGBT switchboard or one of the many LGBT youth groups that can offer you advice and support.
The following links open in a new window
Victim Support
Commission for Racial Equality
Citizens Advice Bureau
Silence is not golden
Derbyshire Friend - www.gayderbyshire.co.uk
True Vision
Crown Prosecution Service www.cps.gov.uk/publications/prosecution/homophobia.html
Remember... You're not alone.
