There are several debates to be had with this copy of Haarden Fazt, should the question about sexual orientation be included in the next census? The EHRC seem to think so, personally I would answer the question if asked, but I meet many people who are mis-trustful of the question especially if our current Government actually changes completely, as the opposition does not have a good record on supporting same sex equality.
What are you thoughts on the straight couple that want to have a Civil Partnership? I can definitely see both sides to this argument and it has caused debate between myself and some of my colleagues.
World AIDS day appears to come and go each year without much about it in the media. An article further in this edition shows that HIV is not going away in the gay community and we still need to be aware of practicing safer sex when you meet a new or casual partner, only through trust and negotiation can you consider not using condoms in your relationships. HIV is a chronic infection and can still be fatal, although it can be managed much more effectively now it is better to be living without the infection. So when merry of the festive season go out and have fun, but be prepared, take condoms with you.
Straight couple want civil partnership
Should the sexual orientation question be asked in the 2011 census?
The Equalities and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) will ask MPs this week to include a question in the 2011 census on sexual orientation. The government has previously ruled out asking people to state whether they are straight, gay or bisexual, saying it would be too controversial but the EHRC maintains it is necessary when there are already questions about race and religion.
The Office for National Statistics also believes the question is unnecessary and in 2006, cited concerns about "privacy, acceptability, accuracy [and] conceptual definitions”. It also argued that people did not want to reveal their sexual orientation in the census and could be put off due to family pressures and embarrassment.
Other critics have said the question, which would ask whether people see themselves as heterosexual, gay, lesbian or bisexual, is overly intrusive and highly personal. It would be optional, rather than compulsory.
Ann Widdecombe, Tory MP for Maidstone and the Weald, told the Times: “It is people’s own business. It is not anyone else’s business and I don’t see why anyone should be asked to declare it.”
However, the EHRC believes the question is vital to ensure that equality legislation is working. According to a paper published by the body, the lack of a question on sexual orientation is "an indication of invisibility" and "a major obstacle to measuring progress on tackling discrimination".
Every household is legally required to fill out a census form once every ten years and householders face a fine of up to £1,000 for refusing to answer questions. The 2011 census will ask for the first time whether respondents are in a civil partnership. There's a petition calling for this on the Number 10 website:http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/lgb2011census/
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HIV amongst gay men is not going awayAn estimated 7,370 new HIV diagnoses were made in the United Kingdom in 2008, according to latest figures from the Health Protection Agency.
A high rate of transmission remains among gay men in the UK with 38% (2,830) of all new diagnoses probably acquired through sex between men. Although diagnoses among gay men are slightly down on 2007 (3,050), they are at their second highest level since recording began. Between 1999 and 2007 there was a 110% increase in diagnoses among gay men (1,450 cases to 3,050). It remains too early to say whether the annual number of new diagnoses among gay men has peaked or whether the 2008 decline is an artefact due to failure to fully adjust for reporting delay. Recent years have seen considerable emphasis put on the importance of HIV testing, especially in higher risk groups like gay men and there is evidence that gay men are being tested and diagnosed earlier than previously. Blood tests at the time of diagnosis give an indication of how well individuals' immune systems are working (CD4 cell count). The average CD4 cell count at diagnosis among gay men has increased year on year from 334 in 1999 to 416 in 2008. However, around one in five gay men are still being diagnosed late, after the point at which treatment should have begun. Late diagnosis (a CD4 cell count of <200) significantly increases chances of death within the first year of diagnosis compared with those diagnosed earlier.
Dr Barry Evans, a sexual health expert at the Health Protection Agency, said:
"The number of gay men diagnosed as HIV positive each year is still high and shows that a large number of individuals are still being infected. Gay men continue to be the group in the UK most at risk of acquiring HIV and latest national guidelines recommend that gay men should test annually.
Safe sex is the best way to protect against HIV infection. Using a condom with all new or casual partners is the surest way to ensure you do not become infected with a serious sexually transmitted infection such as HIV."
The overall estimate for new diagnoses in 2008 is slightly less than 2007 (7,660), due largely to the continued fall in diagnoses of heterosexually acquired HIV infections in people from sub-Saharan Africa. Overall, HIV diagnoses through heterosexual contact continue to decline from a peak of 5,000 cases in 2004 to 4,200 cases in 2008. Most of this fall is among cases infected abroad (3,110). Conversely, the numbers of heterosexuals being infected with HIV in the UK continues to increase. Between 2002, when surveillance was enhanced, and 2008 the estimated number of new HIV diagnoses among those infected heterosexually in the UK increased from 500 to an estimated 1,090.
Heterosexuals acquiring HIV in the UK now account for 15% of all new diagnoses.
Professor Maria Zambon, Director of the Health Protection Agency's Centre for Infections, said: "People need to know that testing for HIV and all sexually transmitted infections is both free and confidential at sexual health clinics across the UK. If you have had unprotected sex with a new or casual partner you should go and get tested. Key to improving diagnosis of HIV and reducing risk of transmission is in enabling easier access to testing through different healthcare settings including general practice, and looking at innovative ways to target those communities most at risk including gay men and black African heterosexuals. Early diagnosis of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections has obvious advantages like access to treatment, improved survival and reduced transmission risk to partners."
For more information why not visit the Health Protection Agency website.
http://www.hpa.org.uk/web/HPAwebFile/HPAweb_C/1219735626512
A straight couple want a civil partnership!A straight couple who tried to apply for a civil partnership have said they are willing to take their case to the European Court of Human Rights.
Tom Freeman and Katherine Doyle, both 25, arrived at Islington Town Hall in London to register their intention to have a civil partnership. As they had anticipated, they were given a letter of refusal.
Head of democratic services John Lynch wrote: "I do not wish to comment on your views on marriage but would point out that part one of the Civil Partnerships Act 2004 states that a civil partnership is a relationship between two people of the same sex and therefore we would not be able to take notice of your proposed civil partnership." Speaking outside the building, the couple said: "Today we have been refused access to a legal institution because of our sexuality. We are saddened and disappointed. In a democratic state, all institutions should be open to all people. We are going to take legal advice and take it to the European Court of Human Rights if necessary."
It is thought that the ban may breach the European Convention of Human Rights with regard to articles eight, 12 and 14. These refer to a right to privacy, marriage and freedom from discrimination.
Doyle told PinkNews.co.uk: "It's hard because we can be seen as a straight couple wanting to colonise civil partnerships, in a way. So we were expecting some kind of negativity from the gay community. But we haven't had any. The fact is that no gay people are really campaigning for equal marriage. I mean, we're coming in as a straight couple campaigning for straight couples' rights. We can't really campaign on behalf of the gay community. But by implication, we hope that marriage will be opened up both ways." She added: "I remember talking to gay colleagues and them saying 'but we like civil partnerships, it's just for us', and I think that's fine but you should have the choice. Whether a lot of gay couples want marriage or straight couples want civil partnerships, that's beside the point. The fact is you should have the choice in a democratic society."
Gay rights activist Peter Tatchell, who is supporting the couple, said: "Tom and Katherine's application is supported by myself and OutRage!. We have long campaigned against homophobic discrimination but we are equally opposed to discrimination against heterosexual couples. The law should be equal for everyone. I think a legal appeal's going to be quite difficult because the government will argue that they have the option of a civil marriage. That's true, but for Tom and Katherine and myself the issue is discrimination. Quite clearly, a heterosexual couple cannot have a civil partnership just as a homosexual couple cannot have marriage. Two wrongs do not make a right and we want equality in law for everyone." www.pinknews.co.uk
Surrey Police introduces new LAGLOs (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Liaison Officers)12 new members, a mixture of officers and staff from various Surrey Police departments across the county, are now part of an on-going development programme designed to build on initial training and maximise their knowledge and understanding of matters that specifically affect members of the LGB & T population.
Offering consultative and practical support or a dedicated point of contact, a LAGLO’s main purpose is to encourage and develop confidence, trust, and open channel’s communication with Surrey’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender population. A LAGLO champions equality and diversity, promotes knowledge and understanding of the LGB & T population, identifies good practice to colleagues, and can offer support on various issues including hate crime, victim/witness liaison and care, partnership projects and community contact.
To achieve its vision of ‘Safe and Confident Neighbourhoods in Surrey’, Surrey Police recognises it must have the trust, confidence and support of all the communities it serves. It must also strive for an organisation that reflects those communities. The LAGLO program not only supports this vision, but highlights Surrey Police’s determination and commitment to developing a service that is truly equitable and fair.
If you would like to make contact with a member of the Surrey Police LAGLO team, you can do so by calling 01483 630474 or e-mailing laglo@surrey.pnn.police.uk
As part of an initiative involving Surrey Police, Surrey Fire & Rescue Service and South East Coast Ambulance Service, the ‘Pride in Partnership’ project will deliver elements of Surrey Police’s LAGLO training program to selected fire and ambulance staff. As well as broadening the reach of the LAGLO program, the project promotes unity and further encourages equality and fairness.
Obama lifts ban of HIV+ people entering the USUS president Barack Obama has lifted the ban on HIV-positive people entering the country.
The 22-year-old law was one of the most restrictive immigration policies in the world for people with HIV. Obama signed a bill recently which reauthorised federal funding for an HIV-related healthcare policy.
While doing so, he also announced the repeal of the travel ban, describing it as a "decision rooted in fear rather than fact.If we want to be the global leader in combating HIV/AIDS, we need to act like it,
and that's why; my administration will publish a final rule that eliminates the travel ban effective just after the New Year."
The ban had also barred long-term foreign residents from obtaining resident status, purely on the basis of having HIV. Only a handful of other countries, such as Yemen and Qatar, have similar policies on barring entry to HIV-positive individuals.
HIV experts have criticised the ban in the past for encouraging people not to get tested out of fear.
Obama said that lifting the ban is a "step that will encourage people to get tested and get treatment. It's a step that will keep families together, and it's a step that will save lives".
The news was welcomed by the Terrence Higgins Trust, the sexual health charity.
Lisa Power, head of policy at the organisation, said: “Terrence Higgins Trust has campaigned for many years to end this discriminatory policy. We hope its ending sends a strong signal to governments and politicians globally who support such pointless gestures.Entry bans have no justification on public health grounds. Their only real impact is to increase stigma and prevent ordinary people with HIV from getting on with their lives."The US president condemned a number of anti-gay measures in his election campaign, such as the ban on gays and lesbians serving openly in the military and the Defence of Marriage Act, which bars gay couples from a number of benefits enjoyed by their straight counterparts.
Although he has spoken out strongly against both laws, gay rights activists have accused him of not moving quickly enough to repeal either. www.pinknews.co.uk
Club4good in conjunction with Gay SurreyWhat is happening with the local scene and the Club4good and gay surrey?
Up and coming events:
And the GS lounge has a new venue and dates are as follows:
We are really excited to have joined up with Charles at the Bed
Venue : The Bed Bar Location : Woking Time : 8pm onwards
Web Link : www.gaysurrey.org/gslounge
Dates
16th December
Once in the Bed Bar, the GS lounge is held exclusively in the VIP area, donations welcome towards our club4good campaign.
As always Gay Surrey has all the latest updates on their website, so why not take a visit www.gaysurrey.org
IDAHO 2010 just a heads up for next years day:
17th May 2010
6.30pm onwards
Event held at the Talbot Inn Ripley
ListingsSurrey Domestic Abuse Helpline
Are you being frightened, hurt or
abused by a partner or family member
24 hour confidential service
01483 776822East Surrey Domestic Abuse Outreach Service
01737 771350
(Serving Reigate and Banstead, Mole Valley and Tandridge)North West Surrey Domestic
Abuse Outreach Service
01483 776822
(serving Woking, Runnymede and Surrey Heath)North Surrey Domestic
Abuse Outreach Service
01932 260690
(serving Epsom, Ewell, Elmbridge and Spelthorne)South West Surrey Domestic
Abuse Outreach Service
01483 577392 or 01932 260690
(Serving the Waverley area)Relate, West Surrey
Provincial House
26 Commercial Way
Woking, Surrey GU21 6EN
01483 715285 www.relatewestsurrey.org.ukNaz Project
HIV and sexual health support service for
South Asian, Middle Eastern, North African, Latin American and other excluded communities
e-mail naz@naz.org.uk
Website: naz.org.uk
0208 7411879 9.30-5.30 Mon-Fri.Guildford Area Gay Society (GAGS)
Meets every Wednesday and some weekends, phone Simon on 01252 370809
www.gags.org.ukThe Cellar
Disco runs last Saturday of
each month 9.00 pm - 2.00 am and social meeting Friday evenings 8.30 pm midnight
Farnham, Surrey (phone for details)
01252 715844
Scrumptious Bar
16 Park Street, Guildford
Tel: 01483 306661
Web: www.scrumptious.t83.net
Homophobic Incidents
Call Surrey Police on:0845 1252222 or www.stophatecrime.co.uk or WSLAGLO@surrey.pnn.police.uk or 01483 630474GUM Clinics
Genito-Urinary MedicineFarnham Road Hospital, Guildford
01483 537007Blanche Heriot Unit, St Peter’s Hospital, Chertsey
01932 722669Frimley Park Hospital, Frimley
01276 604105K2 Clinic, Wolverton Centre, Kingston Hospital
For Gay and Bisexual Men
Wednesday 6.00 - 8.00 pm - walk in only
0208 934 2843TWISTER Youth Club!
LGBTQ Young People, Surrey Ages 13-19
Various Nights 7.30pm - 9.30pm
www.surreycc.gov.uk/twisterLocal Voluntary Organisations
Outline
Lesbian and Gay Helpline
open Sunday and Tuesday between 7.30 and 10.00 pm
01483 727667www.gaysurrey.org
Offering help, support and advice locally
to those who need it
Tel: 0700 5982 429 anytime
Young Gay Surrey
Website dedicated to 13 to 19 year olds for help and support www.ygsspeakout.orgThe following Charities offer advice, support and
information to people infected and affected by
HIV/AIDSPositive Action
0800 9801990 (freephone)
01252 345019
THT Surrey Region
01483 263160
St Peters House Project
01737 763000Married Men’s Group
A group for men who are married or in
relationships with women and are attracted to
or having sex with other men.
07801 629972RASASC
Rape and sexual abuse support centre
01483 546400 female staffed (7.30-9.30) closed Saturdays and Bank Holidays
Contact Ian Cole
on Mobile - 07801 629972
e-mail ian.cole@surreypct.nhs.uk
This newsletter is produced by the Harm Reduction Outreach Team part of Surrey PCT
