The Minister for Equalities (Lynne Featherstone)
At the very heart of the coalition Government is a commitment to fairness and equality. Celebrating the diversity of the UK and enabling all to be able to play their full part will lead to a strong society which values all of its citizens. The UK has a record to be proud of in advancing equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people but we must not be complacent. We know that challenges still exist and we need to take bolder actions to deal with these issues. Too many transgender people still face outdated prejudice at every stage of their lives, from discrimination in the workplace to tragic incidents of hate crime. This not only blights people’s lives, but undermines the principles upon which this country prides itself. This Government are committed to addressing these issues and advancing transgender equality.
In March 2011, the Government published “Working for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Equality: Moving Forward”, which included cross-Government commitments to tear down barriers and advanced equal opportunities for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in all areas of society—including in schools, at work and in healthcare.
This document recognised that transgender people face distinct and specific challenges that sometimes need to be addressed separately.
Today we are publishing “Advancing Transgender Equality: A Plan for Action”, which builds on our programme of work to tackle outdated prejudices and ensure equal chances for everyone whatever their gender identity. It shows a real commitment across Government to take concerted action to tear down barriers to equal opportunities and to build a fairer society. This document also mirrors the aims of the Government’s “The Equality Strategy—Building a Fairer Britain” which aims to address inequality in social mobility, tackling deprivation, developing a fair and flexible labour market, promoting greater participation and opening up public services, and changing culture and attitudes.
Copies of the action plan have been placed in the House Library and will also be available on the Home Office website: http://homeoffice.gov.uk/equalities/