Minutes: October 2004

Present: Helen, Robin, Neill, Tony, Nick
Apologies: Matthew, Jane, Sue, Doug, Barry, Sharon, Paula, Sue, Gary.

Minutes of the Last LGBT and HTHCF Meetings
Both agreed as correct.

Matters Arising

Paula had telephoned Nick and informed him that whilst she acknowledges receipt of the letter regarding the £1200 paid to Pride Youth, Gillian Morris would receive a reply in the near future.

Helen and Tony said that it would be useful to have some terms of reference regarding the budget so that we would have clarity for the future.

Tony said that it would be a pity to lose members due to this issue.

Helen said she would like a letter to be sent from the Link Workers to Keith to explain the current status.

Neill asked whether the money was a payment or a loan? Helen said that it was for a sponsored report, and that it had been a very contentious discussion.

Nick reminded those present that the budget was available also for promoting the positive side of our sexuality and the contribution that our community make within the community.

Would we be able to put that opportunity forward to the next Agenda so that further discussions could be made?

Tony commented that tonight’s turnout had been abysmal.

Nick gave an update of the budget, and those present asked that it should be sent to each member.

Education Policy

Nick informed those present that Rita had told him that the comments made by the representative LGBT Group had not yet been discussed or considered due to the high volume of people absent. Feedback should be available for the November LGBT meeting.

Equalities Coalition Issue Sheet

Nick introduced a new reporting form, which will be completed by a Coalition Link Worker and forwarded to departmental representatives on the Equalities Task Group. Nick explained that the response would or should then be received by the Link Worker within 10 working days.

Link Workers

Tony said that a considerable amount of work is done by the Link Workers, and that all the members appreciated their dedication.

Homophobic and Transgender Hate Crime Forum

It was agreed that at the next meeting the HCF will merge with the LGBT coalition, whilst retaining their individuality and separate budgets.

It is unlikely that we will continue to get the professionals attending due to the evening meetings of this coalition, commented Robin.

Nick suggested that we should look at any existing forms and try and adopt a generic stance.

Report of World Aids Day events – 1st December 2004

Everyone confirmed that they had read and received the updates relating to the service and candle lit walk.

AOB

Robin stated Hate Crime figures pointed to a 300% increase in Homophobic Attacks. Robin stated he did not consider the number of actual attacks having increased, but the willingness of the aggrieved to report such crimes.

Nick asked the Coalition whether they felt we should do something with these figures, and it was decided to wait until the next meeting due to the low numbers.

It was also felt that due to the poor attendance it would be pointless to discuss the Evening Advertisers report on the Faringdon Road Park attacks, and the journalistic style adopted, further discussion should be left until the November meeting. It would be of value to have copies of the articles at the next meeting.

Tony suggested that a Newsletter would still be of interest to our community and should be published as soon as possible.

Helen raised concern about the increase in binge drinkers in the Railway Village area on a Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Robin mentioned that there had been discussion with regard to a public convenience being sited outside the Mail Coach, and this had been considered insensitive. It has now been referred to the Night Time Economy Task Group of the Council.

Neill mentioned that a drug and alcohol use needs assessment will be reported upon in January.

Robin said that communication needs to be more effective between meetings, and suggested that email should be the first choice.

Next Meeting:
Wednesday 1 December
at The Pilgrim Centre as the World Aids Day service – 6:30pm – 7:30pm