Launch of anti-homophobia surgeries (From News Shopper)

Launch of anti-homophobia surgeries

1:01pm Tuesday 13th May 2008 in

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RAINBOW flags and balloons will adorn police cars in Bromley during an anti-homophobia day.

The event on Saturday (May 17) is being held in Market Square on International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO) to encourage victims of homophobic and transphobic incidents to report them.

Bromley police's lesbian gay bisexual transgender (LGBT) liaison officers will be at the stand throughout the day to offer advice.

They will also be launching the borough's LGBT surgeries on the day.

These are to be held one Saturday a month for the next six months at the Central Library in Bromley High Street.

The surgeries will be held between noon and 3pm on June 28, July 26, August 23, September 27, October 25, November 22.

An LGBT forum is also held on the second Tuesday of each month at the Star and Garter pub in Bromley High Street.

It starts at 6.30pm and anyone with any concerns is invited to go along and speak to a liaison officer.

Bromley police spokesman Inspector Andy Johnstone said: "We are committed to work with its diverse communities, to understand their needs and concerns and to make sure they have a voice.

"There has been increased mutual trust and co-operation with lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender groups in Bromley recently - we are, however, under no illusions at the work still to be done.

We will continue and increase our efforts, but I would appeal to members of the LGBT communities to join with us.

"We would very much welcome new members to discuss how we can continue what we are doing right and improve what we are not.

"Please do come and attend these surgeries and forums."

IDAHO is commemorated because May 17 1990 was the day that the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders.

• Anyone who has any concerns or wants more information can call the police's LGBT liaison officers on 07872 677941 or email them.