The numbers of TS/TG staff in individual departments are relatively small and some LGB networks in the civil service will not support TS/TG staff who identify as heterosexual, the issue being one of gender identity and not sexual orientation. This can reinforce feelings of isolation and exclusion.
We therefore decided to form a network that embraced TS/TG and intersex staff across the whole civil service, and its agencies and associated departments/offices.
What are our priorities?
To establish a:gender as a respected source of advice and information that Departments can draw on, when needed.
To provide advice and information on the Gender Recognition Act
To liaise between government departments and the 'external' providers of support for TS/TG/intersex people (eg. Press For Change, Gender Trust).
To provide advice and support for staff who are being harassed and discriminated against in the workplace.
To hold regular meetings and local contact points for staff who are transitioning, have transitioned, or are about to transition.
Our aims and objectives are:
To provide confidential and mutual support and a safe environment for members to share experiences of working in the Civil Service, its agencies and associated departments/offices.
To increase knowledge of issues affecting transsexual/transgender staff, and staff who identify as intersex.
To work towards the eradication of individual and institutionalised transphobia
To provide consultation to, and to raise concerns with, senior managers.
To offer advice on issues relating to transsexual/transgender staff, and staff who identify as intersex, to meetings, induction projects, training, etc.
To work towards consistent best practice of treatment and benefits for transsexual/transgender and intersex staff
To support compliance with the Public Sector
Duty across the Civil Service by helping to identify discrimination against,
and harassment of, transsexual people, both as employees and as service
users, and to assist constructively in the reduction and, where possible,
elimination of these adverse impacts.
