Abstract

More than ever, LGBT people are prominent in the news and media; LGBT issues are debated in parliament, and LGBT concerns are the focus of many legal reforms. There have been great legal gains in recent times, such as the Gender Recognition Act of 2004 for transsexuals, civil partnerships for lesbian and gay men, the institution of a Single Equality Act which awards LGBT people greater legal protection at work and in public places, and the allowance of LGBT people in the armed services.

These gains have helped community organizations to refocus their efforts toward aspects that are still causes of concern. For example, transsexual organizations are highlighting the long waiting lists for sex reassignment surgery in the National Health Service (NHS). Gay and lesbian organizations are highlighting bullying in schools, drawing attention to homophobic violence and hate crimes that are not abating. In addition to these concerns, there is also an effort to produce positive representations in film, television, and the media.