A NEW survey is being carried out in West Devon, which aims to focus on the views and experiences of the borough?s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) residents in relation to abuse, violence and discrimination.
The survey has been developed by Spectrum, a partnership of representatives from West Devon, South Hams, Teignbridge and Torbay community safety partnerships, the Intercom Trust, Eddystone Trust, the police, LGB Health Project and Victim Support.
Spectrum was set up to support the needs and priorities of the LGBT community and promote trust between it and the statutory and voluntary agencies.
Andy Hunt, spectrum chairman, said: ?This survey will enable all involved to get a better picture of what is really happening amongst the LGBT communities. We want the results of this survey to direct the work of Spectrum in the
future.
?It is well known that violence against the gay community often goes unreported, due to fear of reprisal.?
Jackie Page, police diversity manager, said: ?We need to know what the community?s concerns are about reporting incidents to the police and local authorities.
?This will place us in a better position to enable us all to fight prejudice and discrimination based on homophobia/transphobia.?
The survey asks respondents about support services and their concerns and experiences of crime.
The surveys are available from gay venues or the Eddystone Trust on 01803 380692.
Alternatively, it can be downloaded anonymously from http://www.teignbridge.gov.uk/community/">www.teignbridge.gov.uk/community/
spectrumsurvey.htm