Discrimination, Homophobia, Trasnphobia

'Discrimination' is the treatment of a person or group of people differently, usually worse, based on their sexual orientation, sex, gender identity, ethnic background, age, faith etc.

Homophobia is a fear or dislike of gay, lesbian and bisexual people.

Transphobia is a fear or dislike or trans people.

Gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered (GLBT) people may experience discrimination, homophobia and transphobia, ranging from unintentional discrimination and small remarks to homophobic/transphobic hate crimes. For example, a GLBT person may experience discrimination by being refused opportunities for promotion or denied access to public services. In many countries this type of discrimination is against the law. You may wish to check your employer's policies and take the recommended action or contact a legal advisor for advice.

Dual discrimination is when people are the victims of discrimination from two angles. For example, a lesbian may be discriminated against for her sexual orientation and the fact that she is a woman. Dual discrimination can occur when people are a combination of GLBT, disabled, women, from minority ethnic communities, are people of faith and are young people or older people.

If you have experienced discrimination, homophobia or transphobia you may feel isolated, frightened and not know where to turn.

If you need to talk to someone, please use our need to talk pages. Trained Befrienders are there to listen to your problems, whatever they are, in a caring and non-judgemental way. You can speak to them anonymously and in complete confidence.

The following links are selected resources on the internet that provide information about discrimination and homophobia. If you need help or support, please click on the link marked 'I need help'.