From Pink News : http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/02/01/uk-housing-association-refuse-to-relocate-trans-woman-away-from-phobic-neighbours-and-say-it-is-lifestyle-choice/
by Corinne Pinfold
1 February 2013
A trans woman in Middlesbrough who tried to change her housing after being harassed by neighbours was refused help by staff, who told her it was her “choice” to be transgender.
Staff of Erimus Housing told Stephanie Elliott Lowther, 46, that they could not help with her request to move away from neighbours who subjected her to transphobic abuse as her gender identity was a “lifestyle choice” that she could opt out of, according to the Northern Echo.
Ms Lowther said: “Erimus has a plaque on its wall about supporting diversity but I came away from there believing that they did not understand what being a transsexual was about.
“I was frustrated and told her that if I had any choice in the matter, I would not choose to be transgendered [sic].”
Ms Lowther sent a complaint to Erimus Housing, who apologised. They have committed to carrying out diversity training for their staff, and Ms Lowther is to help them deliver it.
“I hope this ensures others who go down this route find an easier reception when being dealt with. Only time will tell but it is encouraging to see Erimus tackling this matter head on,” she said.
Saliah Hameed, the Diversity Manager for Erimus Housing’s parent company Fabrick, said: “We are committed to equality and diversity and will not tolerate discrimination on any grounds.
Continue reading at: http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2013/02/01/uk-housing-association-refuse-to-relocate-trans-woman-away-from-phobic-neighbours-and-say-it-is-lifestyle-choice/
