8 2 What particular issues do lesbian, gay and bisexual people face in Britain today? 12 3 What are the keys laws protecting LGB people\u2019s rights?

This booklet is one in a series of
guides to equalities issues produced
by Bristol City Council. It is part of
our commitment to promoting
inclusion through tackling myths and
prejudice. Previous booklets provide
information on asylum seekers and
refugees, Gypsies and travellers and
Muslims. All resources are also
available online at
www.bristol.gov.uk/equality.

Research from the British social attitudes
survey over the last 20 years has
demonstrated how the general
population\u2019s attitude towards lesbian, gay
and bisexual (LGB) people is becoming
more positive. Although crime statistics,

records of legal cases and individuals\u2019
personal experiences continue to provide
evidence of significant discrimination
against lesbian, gay and bisexual people,
there is a growing acceptance of diversity
in modern society.

The research shows how prejudice and
discrimination against lesbian, gay and
bisexual people is directly linked to
stereotypes, myths and ignorance about
the reality of LGB people\u2019s lives and
experiences. This booklet addresses
frequently asked questions (FAQs) and
provides the facts behind some common
myths and misconceptions. This booklet
focuses on sexual orientation and does
not set out to address transgender myths;
we plan to cover these in the future.

\u201cAs a council we are committed to
equality for everyone within the City of
Bristol. We want lesbian, gay and bisexual
people to see and feel the impact of that
commitment in their daily lives. This
mythbusting booklet helps put our
equalities policies and action plans into
context and provides useful information
for Bristol residents, policy developers and
service providers alike. It does not aim to
provide all of the solutions in itself but is
part of our wider equalities strategy that
will ensure Bristol\u2019s status as an inclusive,
fair and forward-looking city.\u201d