Council and Religious Leaders need to challenge Homophobia in City" appeals Cllr Steve Radford

Last year Liverpool City Council commissioned a study by Storm Brake to look at various issues effecting the Gay Lesbian and Transgendered Communities.

The research company reported back last Thursday to community leaders. The report back showed endemic homophobia in the city. Of a selected 210 interviewees 53%, suffered from Verbal abuse, 33% physical assault and 16% damage to homes, all believed to be the result of homophobia.

Even more disturbing the response of recent former pupils was that when they were subject to homophobic bullying they were often treated as the problem rather than a victim to be supported.

The survey showed that homophobic attacks were throughout the city and not linked to the city centre.

Liberal Party Leader Steve Radford at the meeting asked for the results to be broadcast to city civic and religious leaders.

"No longer can we make piecemeal progress the widespread intimidation of gays , lesbians and transgendered people is sa direct cause of suffering and over the years an exodus from the city, A clear public stand must be taken to challenge public attitudes now, any suggestion that we should not share these results as it would interfere with the city of culture promotion should be disregarded"

Cllr Steve Radford 07920090322