New guidance on how to support LGBT pupils in West Dunbartonshire and ensure they are provided “high quality” learning experiences has been approved by councillors.
A report submitted to members of the education committee revealed that some LGBT pupils experience higher instances of mental health issues and bullying.
Data also shows that since 2016 there has been an increasing trend of pupils who have indicated to school that they have changed names, their use of pronouns, or their gender.
READ MORE: The West Dunbartonshire schools with the most 'positive destinations' for pupils
West Dunbartonshire Council will now share guidance on supporting LGBT pupils to all staff while developing a virtual platform to help staff access a range of resources and signposting to help students on their LGBT journey.
The aim is for all children and young people to feel happy, safe, respected, supported and included across classrooms and within other learning environments.
The council will now work with a range of organisations to make sure their pupils are supported and staff have the correct measures in place to work with children and their parents while working to reduce inequalities and promote “positive destinations” within West Dunbartonshire.
Councillor Jonathon McColl said: “I think this is an incredible report. Obviously a lot of work has gone into this and I think having this and I think this is going to make a difference.
“This isn’t a policy that is going to sit on the shelf - it is a policy that is going to make a difference. If this kind of support had been there while I had been at school then perhaps it wouldn’t have taken me until my 30s to come out and live the life that I wish to live.
“As someone who has had a tough time over the years, I really do think that this is a policy that is going to help an awful lot of young people.”
