Commitment outlined to end conversion therapy of LGBTQ+ people across Greater Manchester

The Progress flag flying in the Pennines: it features trans colours on the traditional rainbow background alongside a black and brown stripe, both representing marginalised people of colour in the LGBTQ+ community

An equality panel for all LGBTQ+ people has launched with a promise to make the region better and safer for all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer plus other non-binary sexualities and genderfluid communities by committing to free Greater Manchester of so-called ‘conversion therapy’.

“Conversion therapy” is a practice where an individual or organisation seeks an intervention with a predetermined outcome to change, cure or suppress the sexual orientation or gender identity of a person.

This powerful commitment to end this practice has been made on the International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia on behalf of Greater Manchester Combined Authority and supported by many Greater Manchester-based organisations, local authorities and charities. 

Created by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham as one of a series of panels formed as part of the Mayor’s commitment to diversity and ending inequality, the LGBTQ+ Equality Panel are a group of dedicated volunteers working with LGBT Foundation, Carl Austin-Behan and the Mayor to improve the lives of LGBTQ+ residents of Greater Manchester.

The Greater Manchester LGBTQ+ Equality Panel believe that people and communities are our strongest voice for change. Through policy and research, the panel will change lives and through practice and example make Greater Manchester a respectful and safe place to live.

 Mayor Andy Burnham said: “Greater Manchester should be a safe city-region for everyone, and we are committed to ending conversion therapy for all members of the LGBTQ+ community.

“Conversion therapy is a practice where an individual or organisation seeks an intervention with a predetermined outcome to change, cure or suppress the sexual orientation or gender identity of a person. Just as we won't do business with those who promote discrimination or division, we believe that organisations that support, promote or facilitate conversion therapy for any member of the LGBTQ+ community should not be receiving public funding.

“Those organisations that support, promote, or facilitate conversion therapy or which campaign against the ending of conversion therapy should not be able to provide services on behalf of Greater Manchester Combined Authority, or to receive support from the GMCA or its affiliated community funding streams.

“I urge all public bodies, organisations and businesses in Greater Manchester to sign up to this commitment."

More information about the Greater Manchester LGBTQ+ Equality Panel is available here.