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Information on the terms of reference for, and and members of, the LGBTQ+ Equality Steering Group (LESG)
The UCL Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Equality Steering Group (UCL LESG) has its origins in a staff network set up in 2009. That network, Out@UCL was established to allow staff who identified as LGBTQ+ to meet others within the UCL community with an aim to make LGBTQ+ equality a reality at UCL.
A formalised steering committee; UCL's LGBTQ+ Equality steering Group is open to all lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer staff and those interested in promoting LGBTQ+ equality at UCL. LESG steers the Out@UCL network of around 600 LGBTQ+ staff and supporters, as well as championing LGBTQ+ equalities within the university more broadly.
UCL has previously been awarded a top 100 national ranking place by Stonewall for its support of LGBTQ+ staff and this includes the efforts of OUT@UCL members in increasing visibility, understanding of LGBTQ+ identities and supporter actions for staff equality. These have included direct SMT support for UCL’s presence at London, Black and Trans pride annual events as well as being an advisory resource for policies affecting LGBTQ+ staff and their families.
The Steering Group will:
- Promote positive attitudes towards LGBTQ+ people and raise the profile of LGBTQ+ equality across the university
- Promote recognition and awareness of discrimination facing LGBTQ+ staff and address any inequalities locally and internationally
- Ensure issues of sexual orientation and gender identity are integrated into the UCL Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and report on progress to the UCL Equality Diversity and Inclusion Committee (EDC) and other relevant UCL committees and groups, as necessary
- Consider the impact of legislation on UCL policies, procedures and practices as they relate to issues of sexual orientation and gender identity, both in the UK and internationally
- Identify any employment issues, policies, or practices that adversely affect LGBTQ+ staff and highlight to relevant bodies
- Liaise with other universities with a view to sharing resources and/or ideas regarding issues of sexual orientation and gender identity
- Act as an advisory body to UCL on issues of sexual orientation and gender identity and work with UCL to promote best practice for supporting LGBTQ+ staff and students working internationally.
Members of LESG are happy to speak to members of the UCL community who would like informal advice or support.
Full Terms of Reference
For more information about membership and expectations of members, the group activities, the responsibilities of the co-chairs and the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Team in supporting the group, please see the document below.
