40% of gay police officers have encountered homophobia

A new survey has found that 40% of out gay, lesbian and bisexual police officers have encountered homophobia in the workplace.

1,300 senior officers took part in the survey by Police Superintendents’ Association of England and Wales (PSAEW), and almost half said that they had “experienced discrimination”.

Some of the respondents said that they feel there is “a subtle underlying level” of homophobia in the police force, while another said that they are not “openly gay” as they feel it would not be wise to speak about their sexuality.

The results of the survey are a cause of concern for Metropolitan Police Chief Superintendent Mike Gallagher, who is responsible for dealing with LGBT issues.

He said: “The fact that 40 per cent of our gay and lesbian members have experienced discrimination in their careers is frustrating and unacceptable. It is very disappointing that we are still talking about this as an issue in 2014.

“We need to do better. And we can. It must be emphasised that homophobia is not accepted in policing. The police service has come a long way, as has society, and that has to be acknowledged.

“But there is more to be done. Sadly, some police officers and staff are not confident being out in their police forces, particularly as they rise through the ranks, and some fear homophobia still exists in areas of policing,” he added.

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