LGBTQ+ Network
Welcome to the University's LGBTQ+ Network. We welcome all individuals who work for the University, a College or an associated institution, who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or transgender, or who are questioning their identity (LGBTQ).
The "+" sign is an umbrella term to represent minority gender identities and sexual orientations not included explicitly in the term LGBTQ.
The LGBTQ+ Network was set up following a staff consultation carried out in 2006. It was launched as the LGBT+ Staff Network, but was relaunched as the LGBTQ+ Network in 2022. It provides support and advice to LGBTQ+ staff at the University and to act as a forum for consultation between staff and the University's governing body.
What does the LGBTQ+ Network do?
Alongside the University's other Diversity Networks the LGBTQ+ Network provides information and support to staff, assists with the co-ordination of diversity events and helps the University to progress equality by:
- Providing a regular forum for discussing diversity issues at work or study.
- Providing networking opportunities.
- Raising issues in a safe environment.
- Contributing to policy development and implementation.
- Organising social events.
- Arranging events to raise awareness and celebrate diversity.
- Contributing to staff development activities.
The Network also provides informal buddying and mentoring initiatives and links to LGBTQ+ communities.
The LGBTQ+ Network is chaired by Dr Duncan Astle and works closely with Professor Andrew Webber, one of the University's Equality Champions.
Our membership
The LGBTQ+ Network embraces the unique diversity of the Collegiate University. Members are drawn from all staff groups from across the Departments, Colleges and associated institutions, including Cambridge Press & Assessment. Reflecting the distinctive needs of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender communities is a Network Priority, which is demonstrated in membership of the Network Steering Group. We also regularly hold events for all of the communities and undertake surveys to find out the needs and profile of the Network. If you are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or non-binary/gender non-conforming, the Network is an inclusive space for all.
I'm LGBTQ+, how can I join the Network?
- You can join anonymously using the mailing list.
- You can email equality@admin.cam.ac.uk with any enquiries.
- You can also follow us on Twitter.
I'm not LGBT or Q, how can I support this area of work?
If you would like to know more about, get involved with, or support the LGBTQ+ Network, but don't identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or non-binary, contact equality@admin.cam.ac.uk.
Stonewall has produced guidance on how non-LGBTQ+ ‘allies’ can support LGBTQ+ equality at work:
LGBT+ Consultation
In 2011, LGBT staff and students took part in consultation exercises to assist the University in progressing sexual orientation and gender reassignment equality. This report details the actions the University has taken as a result of consultation.
For further information about the consultation, the report or University equalities work, contact equality@admin.cam.ac.uk.