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Ignorance
and intolerance mean that harassment can be an everyday occurrence
for gay people living in Norfolk. Verbal abuse is more common
than physical attack, according to Neil Kittle. Working
with Norwich's gay youth group, he cites a recent meeting in
a local pub considered to be 'gay friendly'.
"These drunk
blokes came along and started abusing people," he says. "They
started telling gay jokes, and saying that they hated fags and
queers. We had to leave, we felt the youth group was at risk
if we stayed there."
In the past
the police might have been the last place he would have turned
to, but that is changing.
Providing support and advice
Sgt.
Alison Clabon of Norfolk Police |
Sgt Alison
Clabon is one of 12 police officers across Norfolk who have
volunteered to work as Community Contact Officers (CCOs),
liaising with the gay population. She heads an Action Unit that
deals with homophobic, racist and domestic incidents. "Our role
is to provide advice and support for people with problems that
the police should be aware of," she says.
Last year
15 homophobic incidents were reported - so far this year the
total is 13, with situations ranging from verbal abuse to serious
robberies and assaults. The perpetrators are not necessarily
strangers. Domestic violence in same-sex relationships and harassment
from neighbours show that problems can surface close to home.
The
officers visit local venues and groups to get the message across,
and to find out how people feel about life in Norfolk.
more
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