What the law says

Colleges have a duty to prevent and tackle all forms of bullying, including homophobic bullying, and they cannot discriminate on grounds of sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation against a student, teacher or other members of staff.

New laws mean that colleges have to be proactive in preventing homophobic bullying and creating a learning environment which supports all students. The Public Duty requires all public bodies, including colleges, to eradicate discrimination, advance equality and foster good relations - this means preventing and tackling homophobic bullying and language and talking about difference in college.