>A message of support from Ofsted for LGBT History Month. Ofsted is setting up its own LGBT staff forum as part of its single equality scheme.

Ofsted’s strategic plan puts equality and diversity at the heart of everything it does. And that commitment is not only about ensuring equality of opportunity for our workforce, but also that the organisations we inspect and regulate fulfil their responsibilities to promote equality and diversity.

‘We are pleased to share celebrating the contributions and achievements of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people through dedicated events like the LGBT History Month and to combat prejudice and discrimination,’ says Sonia Gandhi, Head of Equality and Human Rights.

A month of events to celebrate the lives and achievements of the LGBT community takes place every year. In 2010, its November pre-launch has been timed to be part of Anti-Bullying Week.

To strengthen the way we inspect equality and human rights, our new inspection frameworks actively promote positive relationships and respect for human rights, and understanding and respecting people’s differences. Our guidance means inspectors must be on the lookout for, and report, bullying and harassment, including homophobic bullying, as well as highlighting good practice.

To support our own staff, we are setting up an LGBT staff support group. This, along with individuals and organisations that represent lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, will help is shape our single equality scheme, which we’ll publish in April 2010.