Charity launches standard for LGBT work
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A charity has launched a quality mark for housing and homelessness organisations working with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.
The Albert Kennedy Trust unveiled the standard at a House of Commons reception on Monday.
Tim Sigsworth, chief executive of the trust, said: ‘The purpose of the quality mark is to make sure that any LGBT person who finds themselves in difficulties has access to a mainstream service that is free from homophobia or transphobia.’
The scheme, Making a Difference, is to help improve best practice in organisations by increasing knowledge and changing values and culture.
Actor Sir Ian McKellen, patron of the charity, was present at the launch along with junior housing minister Ian Austin.
Sir Ian said: ‘The influence of the trust will be felt way beyond the metropolitan centres in which it operates. Local authorities all across the UK will have a framework that ensures young LGBT people in difficulties get the best level of help.’
Mr Austin added: ‘I am delighted to see this fantastic organisation now helping hundreds of people and campaigning to ensure there is decent housing and better services for LGBT young people with the launch of this new quality mark.’
The scheme includes a one-day training workshop for employees focused on developing skills and understanding, and offering practical advice on how to help meet the needs of LGBT people.
Mr Sigsworth said: ‘Research shows many organisations do not know how to create the welcoming, supportive environment that LGBT people desperately need.
‘They often wrongly assume a blanket approach to youth homelessness works, but this leaves underlying issues unsolved.’
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