RAF LGBT Forum - RAF LGBT Forum Updates

RECORD OF DISCUSSION FROM THE RAF BREAKOUT SESSION AT TRI SERVICE LGBT CONFERENCE 2009 HELD AT VICTORY SERVICES CLUB, 63-79 SEYMOUR STREET, LONDON, W2 2HF AT 1030 ON 04 DEC 09

ITEM 1 – INTRODUCTION

1. RAF LGBT Forum representatives introduced themselves to the delegates present and explained the purpose of the session.

ITEM 2 – 10th ANNIVERSARY EVENTS

2.      General opinion from the delegates appeared to be a concern over how ‘formal’ the official event will be.  With concerns over dress regulations, invited guests and cost implications highlighted.

3.      Post session note: Discussed with ProjO 10th Anniversary Events, Flt. Lt Murray.  Further details to follow to answer delegates concerns when plans finalised.

Action: ProjO 10th Anniversary Event, Flt Lt Murray

ITEM 3 – PRIDE 2010

4.      Publicity was offered as a key component to ensure uptake and attendance from the wider RAF LGBT community. Pride 2010 ProjO, Cpl Taylor introduced himself and was present for discussion surrounding publicity.

Action: All Forum Members/ RAF E&D Staff/ Cpl Taylor

ITEM 4 – WIDER RAF LGBT COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

5.     Publicity offered as a key requirement for the Forum to action.  Ideas provided during the session included;

 Notice on Pay statements
 Section in RAF News
 Station Magazines
 Poster campaign including Forum details, Proud2Serve and support network contact details.

Action: All Forum Members/ RAF E&D Staff

6.     Training Units were highlighted as needing direct targeting for poster campaigns or further advertising.

7.     A single Service database to be established with volunteers from the LGBT community to help publicise events and pass information through personal communication chains.

Action: Sgt Cotman

8.     A more direct link from RAF intranet pages required to highlight Proud 2 Serve and RAF LGBT Forum.

ITEM 5 – LESBIAN REPRESENTATION

9.     Awareness and publicity of events discussed as a barrier.  Concerns raised that many social events were male dominated.  Female representation from the delegates agreed to help communicate and publicise events and engage with the forum to provide a more balanced representation

Action: Sgt Cotman/ All Forum Members

S L COTMAN
SGT
Dep Chair RAF LGBT Forum