Caithness councillor’s plea to stamp out homophobia in schools
HIGHLAND Council needs to do more to tackle homophobia in the Highlands, particularly in schools, according to Councillor Alex MacLeod.
Today (Friday) marks International Day Against Homophobia and the Landward Caithness representative unveiled a series of proposals to help “root out homophobia” in the Highlands.
Mr MacLeod, who has spoken out on LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) issues since his election last May, said Highland teachers need to be encouraged to report every instance of homophobic bullying, however small.
He has written to the chair of Highland Council’s adult and children’s services committee with his proposals.
“We need to tackle homophobic bullying at the earliest opportunity in our schools,” said Mr MacLeod.

“To mark International Day Against Homophobia, I will write to the chairman of the children’s service committee to propose a series of measures to support those working with children, to help them help the council tackle homophobia.
“Teachers must be encouraged to report absolutely every instance of homophobic activity, however small it may seem. Only then can councillors make really effective policy to support LGBT young people.
“More needs to be done to tackle homophobia and I look forward to working with the council towards a more tolerant Highland region.”