Focus of Work

The emphasis of the Consortium’s work can be more easily represented by this diagram. The focal point of work concentrates on the voluntary and community sector (and its development and support). Our role is not to undertake lobbying (Stonewall) or other special interest work (other members) – we focus on support for member organisations/groups not the LGBT end user or client.

LGBT Third Sector
Our role in the broader “Third Sector” is to highlight the LGBT aspect. However, we are aware (as represented in the diagram) that LGBT as an identity is comprised of the four individual identities – and that these identities, whilst having similar needs, also have major differences. To paraphrase current Government language “One Size does not fit all”. The Consortium ensures that all four identities are treated equitably with regard to membership services and support.

Regional
As we move out from the centre of the diagram, we have a band relating to regional emphasis. The needs in certain part of the country are very different for LGBT individuals; and thus the needs of the organisations supporting them can vary. London for example has a very large and diverse LGBT community (with organisations that reflect this); the South West has a much more disparate and isolated community, with little organisation/group infrastructure and capacity. The Consortium has in the past developed regional networks for mutual agency support, but without the resources to maintain these networks, many have fallen by the wayside and need to be re-instigated/invigorated.

Identity
The make-up of the LGBT community is multifaceted and diverse, both in terms of (other) identities; and also in terms of interests/needs. The work of the Consortium needs to reflect other identities to ensure that the range and breadth of services can be provided by the membership; and that organisations and groups encapsulate diversity in their services.
Whilst specialist service delivery, research and policy work is provided by specialist members (e.g. Polari, Regard etc), the Consortium needs to identify and work around gaps in these areas; whilst ensuring that the work undertaken is “shared” across the wider membership and the wider third sector.

Interest/need
A similar role is performed by the Consortium on issues of interest/need. There are specialist agencies that focus on particular needs (such as Stonewall Housing, Galop, Schools Out, etc.) and this knowledge needs to be networked and shared for better development of services around these issues.