Advice, help and support
Your rights are protected in law
Under the Equal Opportunities Policy the University is committed to a:
… pro-active and inclusive approach to equality, which supports and encourages all under-represented groups, promotes an inclusive culture, and values diversity
University of Cambridge Statutes and Ordinances
This means that no member of staff will be treated less favourably on a number of protected grounds, which includes both Sexual Orientation and Gender Reassignment. This is in line with legislative developments, including the Equality Act 2010, and the University's Combined Equality Scheme.
This protection applies to employment, vocational training and higher education and protects all staff and students from discrimination by actual or perceived sexual orientation, irrespective of whether the perception is correct or not, as well as gender reassignment status. The legislation includes protection against direct and indirect discrimination, harassment and victimisation.
Discrimination, bullying, harassment and victimisation based on an individual's membership or perceived membership of a protected group is unlawful. This does not, however, allow one protected group to act unlawfully against another protected group. So, for example, although staff are protected against discrimination on grounds of Religion or Belief, it is unlawful to discriminate against another member of staff on the grounds of Sexual Orientation, even if that staff member's Religion or Belief prohibits homosexuality.
Support
- Dignity at Work scheme
- HR policies, HR Business Partners
- Diversity Networks
- University Counselling Service
How do I make a complaint?
Members of staff who believe that they have been discriminated against on grounds of Sexual Orientation or Gender Reassignment may make a complaint through the University's:
- Grievance procedures in connection with their terms and conditions of employment.
- Dignity at Work Policy.
Mentoring
Members of the Network are available to act as mentors for any member of staff who would be interested in this.
New Members Supporters
Designed to welcome new members, the LGBTQ+ Network has set-up New Members Supporters. It allows a member of the Network to meet with a volunteer member before a Network event. The volunteer members are LGBTQ+ and the Network can arrange for the volunteer to be LGBTQ+. Contact equality@admin.cam.ac.uk for more information.