The network initiates and develops lobbying and educational information campaigns to influence and effect changes in, for example, NHS understanding about and interaction with its LGB&T service users.
We listen to community members, including seldom heard and vulnerable LGB&T groups to influence and bring about change in services provided by local authorities and public service organisations. Commonly in the areas we work in, inclusion and combating prejudice issues and needs (including those of public service and local government organisations and their specific departments) exist that are otherwise not covered by other organisations, and yet impact seriously and negatively on the lives of many of our communities members.
As a result of the network’s existence and the support it provides to the pan-Dorset LGB&T Health Advisory Group, Bournemouth Hospital is publicly promoting awareness to staff, patients and visitors that it operates a zero tolerance policy concerning homophobic and transphobic behaviour. The network is also developing in conjunction with Royal Bournemouth Hospital, two staff training videos to profile our LGB and our Trans communities needs and commonly encountered issues in accessing NHS healthcare.