Ealing (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Ealing Council is recognized by Stonewall for its efforts to make housing more inclusive for LGBTQ+ residents, marking a significant step towards equality.
Only a small number of local governments were able to become Pledge Pioneers for the organization.
The honor comes after the council decided to join Stonewall’s LGBTQ Housing Pledge last time, which is a civil pledge to guarantee that renters and leaseholders are treated with respect, feel safe, and aren’t subordinated to prejudice. Landlords who can demonstrate measurable progress in enhancing acceptance for LGBTQ residers are granted the Pledge Pioneer marker.
The award “is a testament to the values we uphold as a council of fairness, dignity, and inclusion for all,” according to Councillor Louise Brett, Ealing’s deputy leader and cabinet member for safe and really affordable housing.
She added:
“I’m proud of the hard work our housing team and volunteer residents have done to achieve this accreditation. Together, we’re building communities where everyone feels safe, seen and supported.”
Among those contributing is Helen Doherty, a council tenant and member of the LGBTQ community, who joined both the resident housing forum and the Ealing 100 network to help shape original policy. She said:
“Many LGBTQ+ people feel judged or marginalised. Respect and understanding helps everyone feel more comfortable.”
In 2019, Stonewall’s housing pledge was introduced after a University of Surrey study revealed that numerous LGBTQ tenants felt unsafe or unnoticeable. Enhancing visibility, icing staff get equivalency training, and amplifying LGBTQ perspectives are all part of Ealing Council’s commitment.
What commitments Ealing must meet to maintain Pioneer status?
To maintain Stonewall’s Pledge Pioneer status, Ealing Council must demonstrate ongoing and active commitments to creating an inclusive and welcoming casing terrain for LGBTQ residents. Continuing to engage with LGBTQ tenants and residents through forums and networks to ensure their voices impact housing programs and services.
Delivering regular training and mindfulness programs for council and housing staff on LGBTQ issues, to foster understanding and reduce demarcation. Enforcing measures that attack importunity within housing, icing safe living surroundings for LGBTQ people.
Ealing Council must sustain these efforts and meet the norms set by Stonewall’s LGBTQ Housing Pledge as part of a broader equivalency and addition frame, showing measurable impact to retain its colonist recognition.
