Sexual orientation

Oxford Brookes University’s Equal Opportunity and Diversity Statement  states that equality is integral to all activities at Oxford Brookes: “Equal treatment - promoting inclusivity and valuing diversity - is one of the University’s core values. Everyone at Brookes can expect respect and equality whatever their sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation”. 

The term sexual orientation is used to describe whether a person is sexually attracted to people of the opposite sex, the same sex, or both sexes.  The term does not just refer to lesbian, gay or bisexual people but also includes heterosexual people.

In 2008, Oxford Brookes was proud to award Neil Bartlett OBE an honorary doctorate in recognition of his body of work and of his pioneering and continuing commitment to gay culture and civil rights.

Our community at Oxford Brookes includes students and staff from around the world, with a wide variety of attitudes and religious beliefs.  Attitudes to sexual orientation are shaped by the society and culture in which one grows up.  The university expects everyone who works and studies here to treat other people with respect. 

Some people are completely open about their sexual orientation, while others consider it a private matter.  Please respect people’s different decisions.  Any complaints of homophobic bullying, including ‘outing’ people, will be taken seriously and handled according to the University’s Harassment and Bullying Policy.

Guidance on good practice is available in Advancing LGB equality: improving the experience of lesbian, gay and bisexual staff and students in higher education from the Equality Challenge Unit.

The Lesbian and Gay Foundation have produced a helpful booklet "I exist": a guide to your legal rights: for lesbian, gay and bisexual people

To find out more please contact eod@brookes.ac.uk