Class work for groups in context

1. GAY AND LESBIAN COMMUNITY
Sexual orientation characterised by
aesthetic attraction, romantic love and
sexual desire for members of the same sex
Males attracted to males are described as
gay, while females are described as lesbian
Being gay or lesbian is not confined to one
socioeconomic class, race of religion and
despite many stereotypes, it is not confined
to any profession
Unique group because in addition to
specific physical and health needs, there is
also a significant need for security, safety,
self esteem and sense of identity

2. ACCESS TO SERVICES
Under-utilised due to
fear of judgement and
guilt about
acknowledging their
sexuality
PFLAG: advocate for
use of community
services

3. EDUCATION
Most use internet as a source of
information- works well as it is
anonymous
School is difficult because of the
opinion of others
Anti-discrimination officers and
welfare positions are used in
educational institutions ensuring no
student experiences harassment

4. EMPLOYMENT
According to statistics from
2005 the majority of unfair
treatment the majority of the
time occurs in the workplace.
52.8% had been the subject
of harassment or
discrimination in their
current workplace.

5. SENSE OF IDENTITY
As the gay and lesbian community
has grown and become more
united, there has been more of a
sense of ownership and pride
positive exposure has led to gay and
lesbian run businesses such as
nightclubs, holiday resorts, bars and
cafes
wider range of coverage of specific
issues in TV programs, festivals and
newspaper articles

6. SELF-ESTEEM
Young people often live in homophobic
environment, this has lead to a sense of alienation
and disconnection from the community
People who have disclosed their identity live with
uneasy feelings and worry about living their life a
lie and hurting the people they love
The NSW gay and lesbian counselling service is a
specific support agency to enhance self-esteem and
provide free, confidential and anonymous
telephone counselling, information and referral for
people living in NSW on sexuality and life issues.

7. SECURITY AND SAFETY
Groups such as PFLAG or the
NSW gay and lesbian rights lobby
have a mission to support the
relationship networks of gay and
lesbians to enhance their security
and safety.
Gays and lesbians are more likely to
experience assault then
heterosexuals.