The Albert Kennedy Trust has launched a quality mark that provides homelessness and housing service providers a new national standard.
The scheme, called Making a Difference will help providers achieve consistent and sustainable better practice in their work with gay people, by encouraging shifts in knowledge, values and culture within their organisation. It was launched at a House of Commons reception, sponsored by David Borrow MP, and parliamentary under-secretary of state for homelessness, Ian Austin MP.
Tim Sigsworth, Chief Executive of the Albert Kennedy Trust, comments: “The purpose of the quality mark is to make sure that any LGBT person who finds themselves in difficulties, have access to a mainstream service that is free from homophobia or transphobia.”
The scheme comprises training and an audit process. A one-day training workshop, aimed at all employees, is focused on developing skills and understanding, to help them support a cultural shift in best practice. It also offers practical guidance on helping to meet the needs of gay people.
The key component is an audit. Through a series of interviews with key team members; analysis of policies; and other evidence, the audit team look for several good practice indicators.
One of the first things the Trust looks at are the policies and procedures for greeting a young LGBT person in a way that makes them feel accepted. This includes everything from a question about sexual identity on the initial assessment form, to visibility of LGBT information.
Another criterion is commitment to service, measuring how well LGBT service users themselves are included to help ensure their needs are met. One example might be representation on a diversity steering group. Other indicators include evidence of action points for eliminating homophobia, promoting a supportive working culture, and understanding LGBT-specific issues among carers. The AKT also supports the service providers with ongoing support, such as on-the-spot professional advice in dealing with individual cases or emergencies.
Participants who successfully complete the audit and training will be awarded the quality mark in recognition of their commitment and high standard of working with LGBT people.
Studies show that gay people make up almost a quarter of youth homelessness cases. They face unique problems, such as coming out, or abuse and rejection on the basis of sexual identity. Furthermore, gay and bisexual men are most at risk from sexual exploitation.
The launch of the Making the Difference quality mark was inspired from a 2008 survey by the Trust, which found very mixed levels of care provision for young people. While some providers offered an excellent service, incidents of homophobia or lack of concern about LGBT issues were frequently reported.
Currently, six housing associations have signed up to the scheme, with a view to achieving the Make a Difference quality mark. These include Trafford Housing Trust, Knowsley Housing Trust and Homes in Havering.