University of Glasgow named one of Britain’s best for gay students

Published: 17 September 2014

University of Glasgow is today named by Stonewall as one of the best in Britain for lesbian, gay and bisexual students in ‘Gay By Degree 2015.

University of Glasgow is today named by Stonewall as one of the best in Britain for lesbian, gay and bisexual students. ‘Gay By Degree 2015’ is the only online guide showing how gay-friendly the UK’s 158 universities are. University of Glasgow is one of just six universities in Britain to meet all 10 criteria and the only Scottish university to score full marks.

Rainbow flag raisingGay By Degree 2015 measures each university against 10 criteria to show how well they support their gay students. The checklist includes whether the university has a policy to tackle homophobic bullying, whether there are societies and events for gay students, and what steps they take to support gay staff.

David Newall, Sexual Orientation Equality Champion for the University of Glasgow, said: “I am delighted that the University of Glasgow achieved top marks in Stonewall’s ‘Gay By Degree’. This reflects hard work by staff to ensure the a supportive, positive student experience. As an organisation we have a strong working relationship with the Student Representatives and the LGBTQ+ Student Association, of which we are proud.

“There are still many challenges in this area, but we hope the Glasgow University experience is supportive and positive for all LBGT students.”

Stonewall Education Policy & Campaigns Officer, Hannah Kibirige said: ‘There are a record number of university places available this year and prospective students who are lesbian, gay or bisexual will want to study where they will be supported and developed.

It’s particularly concerning that only 35 universities are monitoring student’s sexual orientation leaving them no way of telling if they’re providing a positive experience for gay students. Universities also risk on missing out on a huge pool of talent with 7 in 10 failing to actively reach out to potential LGBT students or engage with the local community on LGB issues.  We hope that this year’s findings prompt action by the higher education sector to consider the needs of all their students, regardless of sexual orientation."


Media enquiries: James Lawrence, Communications Officer, Stonewall: 020 7593 1857

 

Prospective students can search Gay By Degree to help inform their university options at www.gaybydegree.org.uk

First published: 17 September 2014