THEGAYUK

Author: Newsdesk

  • How often should I get tested for HIV?

    How often should I get tested for HIV?

    Getting tested for HIV can be a daunting experience, particularly for gay men who are still coping with the trauma of the ongoing HIV/AIDS epidemic and years of inadequate government responses. Sadly, despite significant advancements in testing capabilities and medical treatments that have made it entirely possible to live a long life with HIV, there is still a lot of stigma surrounding HIV.

    However, thanks to medications such as PrEP, you can now be proactive in protecting yourself from HIV before having sex. Regular HIV testing is still crucial for your health and the health of your community, even if you’re taking PrEP or practising safe sex.

    How many people in the UK are living with HIV?

    As of the end of 2020, an estimated 107,800 people were living with HIV in the UK, according to Public Health England. Of those, approximately 7,400 people were unaware of their HIV-positive status. While the number of people living with HIV in the UK has been increasing over the years, the overall rate of new diagnoses has been declining due to increased testing, prevention efforts, and the availability of antiretroviral therapy.

    Remaining up-to-date on your HIV status is essential for better understanding yourself and communicating openly with your partners. If you’re considering getting tested for HIV, this guide is here to help answer some of your questions, such as who should get tested, how often you should get tested, what questions to ask your medical provider, what to expect before getting tested, how to protect yourself from HIV, and what to do if you’ve been exposed to HIV.

    Anyone who feels they may be at risk of contracting HIV, not just the men who have sex with men (MSM) community, should get tested. HIV can be transmitted from person to person through bodily fluids or blood. Those at the highest risk of contracting the virus include individuals who have recently had unprotected sex, shared needles during intravenous drug use, or come into contact with the open wound of an HIV-positive person.

    So how often should you get tested?

    How often someone should get tested for HIV depends on their individual risk factors and sexual activity. As a general guideline, those who are sexually active should get tested yearly. However, those who are at higher risk, such as sexually active gay and bisexual men, should get tested every 3 to 6 months.

    Other factors that may warrant more frequent testing include having multiple sex partners since your last HIV test, sharing needles or other drug injection equipment, exchanging sex for drugs or money, or being diagnosed with another sexually transmitted disease. It’s important to note that regular testing is not just a one-time thing, as your HIV status can change over time. Additionally, those who are HIV-positive should work with their doctor to determine a regular testing schedule to monitor their viral load.

    The NHS says that “sexually active gay men and bisexual men” should get tested every 3 to 6 months. The rest of the population should get tested yearly, especially if they meet the following criteria:

    • You’re a man who has had sex with another man
    • You’ve had anal or vaginal sex with someone who has HIV You’ve had more than one sex partner since your last HIV test
    • You’ve shared needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment (for example, cookers)
    • You’ve exchanged sex for drugs or money
    • You’ve been diagnosed with or treated for another sexually transmitted disease
    • You’ve been diagnosed with or treated for hepatitis or tuberculosis (TB)
    • You’ve had sex with someone who has done anything listed above or with someone whose sexual history you don’t know

    How much do HIV tests cost in the UK?

    HIV testing is free in the UK and can be done through a variety of channels including sexual health clinics, general practitioners, and some community organizations. Additionally, home testing kits are available for purchase online or at some pharmacies, and the cost can range from around £15 to £30. However, it’s important to note that free testing is widely available, and individuals are encouraged to get tested regularly regardless of their ability to pay.

    What is HIV?

    HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks and weakens the immune system, which is responsible for fighting off infections and diseases. HIV targets specific cells in the immune system called CD4 cells, which are important for fighting infections. As HIV replicates and damages these cells, the immune system becomes increasingly weaker, making it more difficult for the body to fight off infections and illnesses.

    Over time, if left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), a condition that occurs when the immune system is severely damaged, and the body is unable to fight off infections and illnesses. However, with early diagnosis and effective treatment, many people with HIV can live long and healthy lives without developing AIDS.

    HIV is most commonly spread through unprotected sexual contact with an infected person, sharing needles or injection equipment with someone who is infected, and from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. HIV cannot be transmitted through casual contact such as hugging, shaking hands, or sharing food or drinks.

    Are there preventative treatment options for HIV?

    There are several treatment options available to prevent the transmission of HIV. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a medication that can be taken to reduce the risk of contracting HIV and is often offered for free through sexual health clinics. If you are interested in finding a PrEP provider, you can visit https://www.iwantprepnow.co.uk.

    Additionally, Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is available for those who may have been exposed to HIV. It is important to note that PrEP and PEP are proactive measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of HIV transmission, and it is essential to have open conversations with partners about HIV status and to engage in regular testing to protect both yourself and your community.

  • Here are the US states with the most anti-LGBT+ laws…

    Here are the US states with the most anti-LGBT+ laws…

    t’s important to note that attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community can vary widely within individual states, and it’s not accurate to label an entire state as “anti-LGBTQ+.” However, some states have passed laws or have political climates that are perceived as being less supportive of LGBTQ+ rights.

    That being said, there is no definitive list of the “most anti-LGBTQ+” states in the US. However, some states have been criticized for passing laws or taking actions that are perceived as discriminatory towards the LGBTQ+ community. For example, in recent years, some states have passed laws that allow businesses to refuse service to LGBTQ+ individuals on the basis of religious objections, or have attempted to restrict access to gender-affirming healthcare for transgender individuals.

    Some states that have been criticized for passing laws or taking actions that are perceived as discriminatory towards the LGBTQ+ community include:

    • Texas 49 bills
    • Oklahoma 35 bills
    • Missouri 34 bills
    • Iowa 29 bills
    • Tennessee 26 bills
    • Mississippi 24 bills
    • Indiana 18 bills
    • South Dakota 18 bills
    • North Dakota 17 bills
    • Kansas 12 bills

    It’s worth noting that attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community can change over time, and some states that were once perceived as less supportive of LGBTQ+ rights have since passed more inclusive laws or become more accepting. Additionally, there are many individuals and organizations within these states that actively work to promote LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance.

  • Revealed: Met Police is institutionally racist, sexist, and homophobic, report finds

    A recent review has found that the Metropolitan Police in London is institutionally racist, sexist, and homophobic. The review, conducted by an independent panel, was commissioned after the police force faced criticism for its handling of the murder of Sarah Everard earlier this year.

    Following the abduction, rape, and murder of Sarah Everard in March 2021 by one of its officers, Wayne Couzens, a review was commissioned into the Metropolitan Police. Louise Casey led the year-long investigation into the force.

    The report concluded that the force’s institutionalized practices are discriminatory and contribute to a lack of trust and confidence in the police among minority communities. The review highlighted several areas where the force needs to improve, including recruitment, training, and accountability mechanisms.

    The panel made several recommendations for the police force to address these issues, such as improving diversity in recruitment and leadership, increasing transparency and accountability, and strengthening the force’s internal monitoring and complaints mechanisms.

    The findings of this review are a stark reminder of the ongoing need to address issues of discrimination and bias within law enforcement agencies, and to work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

    “Are you a giver or a taker”

    According to the 363-page report, the police force also showed evidence of “deep-seated homophobia,” as well as widespread racism and bullying. The report revealed that nearly one in five lesbian, gay, and bisexual employees had experienced homophobia, and 30% of LGBTQ+ employees reported being bullied. Trust, confidence, and fairness scores among LGBTQ+ Londoners have also significantly decreased.

    During the review, an openly gay officer reported that his colleagues continually asked him inappropriate questions about his sex life, such as whether he was a “giver or a taker,” both in briefings and around the police station. He also stated that the response team would collectively groan when an “LGBT matter” came through on the radio.

    While he knew that acquiescing was not the right thing to do, he remained silent for the sake of his own mental health and career. He questioned how the police force could provide Londoners with the service they deserve if they couldn’t treat their colleagues with respect and compassion in one of the world’s most diverse cities.

    Another openly gay female officer also reported witnessing racism and experiencing both misogyny and homophobia. For instance, a male officer told her that his “balls were cold” during a night shift, asking her to “warm them up.”

    Jokes on Whatsapp

    In the report, an openly gay male officer, referred to as ‘E,’ revealed that he is frightened of the police after being subjected to a prolonged campaign of homophobia from within the Metropolitan Police force. The review disclosed that E had seen evidence of WhatsApp groups among serving officers that joked about stopping and searching him off-duty while using homophobic language.

    E reported that when he raised his treatment with the Met, they brushed off his experience. According to Casey, the report’s author, there is a culture of denial in the force, which has allowed predatory and unacceptable behavior to thrive.

    Trust has hit Rock bottom

    According to Casey, public trust in the Metropolitan Police has hit rock bottom. The number of Londoners who lack confidence in the force now exceeds those who do, and black Londoners have had lower trust levels for years.

    Despite efforts to eradicate institutional racism, the Met has yet to rid itself of the problem, and public consent has been lost. The force has also become disconnected from the principles of policing by consent outlined when it was first established by Sir Robert Peel.

    Moreover, the review found that black officers were 81% more likely to be subject to the misconduct system than their white colleagues. The report stated that complaints were often turned against officers from ethnic minority backgrounds.

    LGBT+ Hate crime continues to rise

    Like in many other countries, hate crimes against the LGBTQ+ community are a problem in the UK. According to a report by the Home Office, there were over 14,000 hate crime offenses related to sexual orientation in 2019-2020, which represents a 19% increase from the previous year. These offenses range from verbal and physical abuse to more violent attacks and murder.

    In recent years, there have been several high-profile cases of hate crimes against the LGBTQ+ community in the UK, including the murder of Ian Baynham in 2009, the stabbing of two women on a bus in 2019, and the murder of three men in a terror attack in a park in Reading in 2020. The rise in hate crimes has led to calls for better protection and support for the LGBTQ+ community in the UK.

  • Five ways to show up for Day Of Silence 2023

    Five ways to show up for Day Of Silence 2023

    Participating in the Day of Silence in the US typically involves taking a vow of silence for the day to raise awareness about anti-LGBTQ+ bullying, harassment, and discrimination in schools. Here are some steps you can take to really show up this 14th of April.

    • 1) Learn about the event: Research the history and purpose of the Day and why it’s important and Register for the event: Visit the official Day of Silence website (https://www.glsen.org/day-of-silence) to register for the event and access resources to help you organize your own Day of Silence event.
    • 2) Spread the word: Use social media, flyers, and other outreach methods to promote the Day of Silence and encourage others to participate.
    • 3) Take a vow of silence: On the day of the event, take a vow of silence for the entire day or for a portion of the day to symbolize the silencing of LGBTQ+ voices in schools.
    • 4) Wear supportive clothing or pin badges: Consider wearing supportive clothing, such as a Day of Silence t-shirt or other LGBTQ+ ally gear, to show your support for the cause. Wearing a small LGBTQ+ pin badge can really show in a visual way that you’re an ally.
    • 5) Break the silence: At the end of the day, break the silence and reflect on what you learned and how you can continue to raise awareness about anti-LGBTQ+ bullying, harassment, and discrimination in schools.

    Remember, it is just one day out of the year, but the fight against anti-LGBTQ+ bullying, harassment, and discrimination is ongoing. Use this campaign as an opportunity to spark conversations, build support networks, and take action to make schools safer and more inclusive for all students.

    When was the first Day Of Silence?

    When was the first Day of Silence in the US?

    The first Day of Silence was organized by students at the University of Virginia in 1996 to bring attention to anti-LGBTQ+ bullying and harassment in schools. The event was inspired by a similar protest called the “Day of Absence” which was organized by African American civil rights activists in the 1960s. The first Day of Silence was a small, local event, but it quickly spread to other schools and universities across the United States. Today, the Day of Silence is a nationally recognized event that is observed by students in middle schools, high schools, and colleges throughout the country.

    Who is the Day of Silence for?

    The Day is for anyone who wants to raise awareness about anti-LGBTQ+ bullying, harassment, and discrimination in schools. The event is often organized by students and allies in middle schools, high schools, and colleges, but anyone can participate regardless of age or background. This day is especially important for LGBTQ+ students who may feel isolated or excluded in school due to their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. By participating in the Day of Silence, students can show their support for LGBTQ+ students and raise awareness about the need for safe and inclusive schools. The event is also a reminder to educators, administrators, and policymakers about the importance of creating welcoming and supportive environments for all students, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

  • Brokeback Mountain on stage is a thing now, and we’re here for that

    Brokeback Mountain on stage is a thing now, and we’re here for that

    One of our favourite gay / bisexual movies has been turned into a stage play with music and we’re rejoicing, but it seems it’s not the famed Ang Lee version.

    Mike Faist, who was nominated for a BAFTA, and Lucas Hedges, who was nominated for an Oscar, are set to star in a London stage adaptation of Annie Proulx’s bestselling novel, Brokeback Mountain. The play, which will incorporate music, is scheduled to run at the Sohoplace Theatre in the West End for 12 weeks, beginning on May 10.

    Nica Burns, the theatre’s owner and producer, emphasized that the play is based on Proulx’s original short story, which was published in The New Yorker in 1997, and not on the critically acclaimed 2005 film directed by Ang Lee and starring Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal.

    Mike Faist, who received a BAFTA nomination for his performance in West Side Story, has been cast as Jack Twist in the London stage adaptation of Brokeback Mountain. Lucas Hedges, who earned an Oscar nomination for Manchester By The Sea in 2016, will play Ennis Del Mar.

    The story, which follows two cowboys who fall in love in the vast expanses of Wyoming, resonated with readers and viewers alike. Ashley Robinson, a writer from Brooklyn, approached Annie Proulx about securing the stage rights, which were ultimately granted.

    Jonathan Butterell, who brought the stage and screen adaptations of Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, will direct the play, with Dan Gillespie Sells serving as a close collaborator and music writer. Eddi Reader, a singer-songwriter, will perform on stage with a country and western band featuring a pedal steel guitarist.

  • Apparently, pollution is turning flies gay

    Apparently, pollution is turning flies gay

    Gay animal news is making headlines in March 2023. Recently, Japanese scientists announced that they had successfully created baby mice from the cells of two fathers. Meanwhile, a German research team discovered that air pollution is causing male fruit flies to exhibit gay courtship behaviour.

    I mean we’re wondering what “gay courtship behaviour” means at this point. A Grindr pic swap? A dark room fumble? Some cute love-meet in a uni library? Come on scientists work with us here.

    So, Fruit flies use pheromones to find and mate with their partners. However, ozone pollution is destroying these pheromones, making it difficult for male fruit flies to distinguish between sexes. When exposed to ozone levels similar to those found in polluted cities, male fruit flies exhibited an increase in gay courtships, likely due to decreased pheromone levels.

    Female fruit flies were also less interested in males exposed to ozone pollution.

    It’s not all fun and games

    While the gay drama of insect courtship is entertaining, the study’s findings about decreasing insect populations due to pollution are a serious concern. The research team warns that if pollutants continue to disrupt chemical communication, insects will not be able to reproduce at a sufficient rate.

    As 80% of crops rely on insect pollination, this could have far-reaching consequences.

    It’s important to note that same-sex relationships between animals are common and healthy, with gayness observed in 1,500 species. Apparently Bats are supposed to be some of the gayest animals on the planet well Swans are pretty darn gay too… (20% in same-sex relationships, often with families) and exhibit homosexual behaviour.

    Love truly knows no boundaries in the animal kingdom.

  • What is a hate crime and how do you report it?

    What is a hate crime in the UK?

    In the UK, a hate crime is defined as any criminal offence that is motivated by prejudice or hostility towards someone based on their perceived race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability. Hate crimes can take many forms, including verbal abuse, physical assault, harassment, and damage to property.

    Under UK law, hate crimes are treated as aggravating factors, which means that they can lead to more severe penalties for the offender. Additionally, victims of hate crimes are entitled to special protection and support under the law.

    It’s important to note that hate speech, while harmful, is not necessarily a hate crime unless it crosses the line into criminal behaviour. However, in the UK, hate speech that incites violence or hatred towards a particular group is illegal under certain circumstances.

    How do I know if I’ve been a victim of a hate crime?

    If you believe that you have been targeted or attacked because of your perceived race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability, then it’s possible that you have been the victim of a hate crime.

    Here are some signs that you may have been a victim of a hate crime:

    1. You were targeted because of your identity: If you were targeted because of your race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability, then you may have been the victim of a hate crime.
    2. You were subjected to verbal abuse: If you were called derogatory names, threatened, or subjected to slurs based on your identity, then you may have been the victim of a hate crime.
    3. You were physically attacked: If you were physically assaulted or threatened with violence because of your identity, then you may have been the victim of a hate crime.
    4. Your property was damaged or destroyed: If your property was damaged or destroyed because of your identity, then you may have been the victim of a hate crime.

    How do I report a hate crime in the UK?

    If you have been the victim of a hate crime or you have witnessed a hate crime, it’s important to report it as soon as possible. Here are the steps to report a hate crime in the UK:

    1. Dial 999 in an emergency: If you or someone else is in immediate danger or harm, dial 999 and ask for the police.
    2. Contact the non-emergency police: If you are not in immediate danger, but you have been the victim of a hate crime, you can contact your local police force on the non-emergency number 101. You can also report hate crimes online through the True Vision website.
    3. Report to a third-party reporting centre: There are also many third-party reporting centres that specialize in handling hate crimes. These include organizations like Stop Hate UK, Tell MAMA and Galop. They can provide support and advice and can report the hate crime on your behalf.

    When reporting a hate crime, try to provide as much detail as possible about the incident, including the date, time, location, and any witnesses or evidence that you have. It’s also important to provide a description of the offender if possible.

    Is hate crime quite common in the UK?

    Hate crimes do occur in the UK, and while the exact number of incidents can vary from year to year, they are unfortunately not uncommon. According to the UK Home Office, police recorded 105,090 hate crimes in England and Wales in 2020-2021, an increase of 4% from the previous year.

    The majority of hate crimes reported to the police in the UK are related to race or ethnicity, followed by sexual orientation, religion, and disability. However, it’s important to note that hate crimes based on gender identity are often underreported and may not be fully reflected in official statistics.

    It’s also important to recognize that hate crimes are not just isolated incidents, but they can have a significant impact on the individuals and communities affected. They can cause fear, anxiety, and stress, and can contribute to a wider culture of discrimination and prejudice.

    To combat hate crimes, the UK government and law enforcement agencies have implemented various measures, including improving reporting systems, increasing awareness of hate crimes, and providing support to victims. However, it’s clear that more work needs to be done to address this issue and promote a culture of respect and inclusivity.

    Are the UK’s streets safe for LGBTQ+ people?

    CREDIT: ©-ronfromyork-Depositphotos

    The UK is generally considered to be a relatively safe country for LGBTQ+ people, but unfortunately, hate crimes and discrimination still occur. According to a survey by Stonewall, a leading LGBTQ+ advocacy organization in the UK, almost one in five LGBTQ+ people (18%) have experienced a hate crime or incident in the past year.

    In terms of public safety, there are many cities and towns in the UK that are known for being LGBTQ+ friendly and welcoming. For example, London, Manchester, Brighton, and Glasgow are all known for their vibrant LGBTQ+ communities and safe nightlife scenes.

    However, LGBTQ+ people in the UK may still face discrimination and harassment in certain situations, such as in the workplace, in healthcare settings, or when accessing public services. Transgender people, in particular, may face additional challenges and discrimination.

    Overall, while there is still work to be done to ensure that LGBTQ+ people feel safe and accepted in all aspects of UK society, progress is being made towards a more inclusive and accepting culture.

  • The priest who became a gay porn Coach, sadly dies, 74

    The Priest who went on to become an intimacy coach at the porn studio, Himeroes, has sadly passed away.

    Himeroes founder, Davey Wavey, delivered the sad news via his Facebook page, saying, “I’m heartbroken to share that coach Nic passed away last week. It was such a pleasure and a joy to work with him on the Himeros.tv “Sacred Sex” series – rarely have I seen someone put SO much heart and soul into a project. It’s a joy to know that his work will live on through Himeros.tv and this beautiful YouTube video, which has already received nearly a million views.”

    San Diego-based Nic, was a priest for 16 years before becoming a Certified Somatic Sex Educator and Sexological Bodyworker and then working with Himeroes, where he helped created a series of videos called “Sacred Sex” he also created the website, https://www.mindfulpleasurepractice.com.

    Taking to his Instagram channel, in September 2022, Coach Nic informed his followers that he had been diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. Sadly, he died in his sleep Wednesday morning at age 74.

    Coach Nic revealed his cancer diagnosis in September 2022 on his Instagram account.

    Coach Nic

    Coach Nic revealed his cancer diagnosis in September 2022 on his Instagram account. Image (YouTube / Himeroes)

    See Coach Nic’s journey in this short behind the scenes video from Himeroes.

  • Gay Glossary: ATM, what does ATM mean?

    Gay Glossary: ATM, what does ATM mean?

    ATM stands for “Ass to Mouth,” which is a sexual act where the penis or another object is inserted into the anus and then put into the mouth without washing or disinfecting it in between.

    It is considered a risky sexual activity due to the potential for bacterial infection, and should be approached with caution and proper hygiene practices.

    Do gay men do ATM more often then straight people?

    There is no evidence to suggest that gay men engage in ass-to-mouth any more or less frequently than any other demographic. However since more gay men partake in anal sex it is likely that gay, bi, and men who have sex with men engage in ass-to-mouth action.

    It is important to remember that sexual preferences and behaviors are highly individual and vary widely among individuals of all sexual orientations. Additionally, it is worth noting that any sexual activity, including ATM, carries a risk of bacterial infection and should be approached with caution and proper hygiene practices.

    What are the risks of ATM?

    What is ATM and what does it mean?
    The risks of ATM are real… so be careful!

    Engaging in ass-to-mouth sexual activity can carry a number of potential risks, including the transmission of bacterial infections. This is because the rectum and anus naturally contain a large amount of bacteria, some of which can be harmful if introduced into the mouth or other parts of the body. Some specific risks may include:

    1. Bacterial infections: If bacteria from the anus or rectum are introduced into the mouth or throat, it can lead to infections such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, or E. coli.
    2. STI transmission: Engaging in ATM can also increase the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like HIV, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B.
    3. Oral health risks: In addition to the risk of bacterial infections and STI transmission, ATM can also potentially lead to oral health issues like gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.

    Is there an ATM emoji?

    Not really, but you could use this sequence to suggest you’re into ass to mouth. 🍑🍆👄, but you know it’s probs quicker to write ATM.

    Who came up with the term ATM?

    It’s unclear who exactly coined the term “ATM” for the sexual act of “ass to mouth.” Like many sexual terms and phrases, its origins are difficult to trace and likely developed over time within certain sexual communities.

  • Is there such a thing as “gay jobs”

    Is there such a thing as “gay jobs”

    Ahem, attention all folks: there’s a certain je ne sais quoi about the occupational patterns of gay and lesbian workers. It turns out they’re overrepresented in fields like psychology, law, social work, and university teaching. And hey, those stereotypes about gay flight attendants and lesbian truck drivers? There’s some truth to ’em.

    Now, where does this kind of occupational segregation come from, you ask? Well, social scientists have been pondering this question for nearly a century, but it’s not just some academic puzzle. This matters, people! It can lead to inequality and limit the talent pool for employers. Yikes!

    So, there are two hypotheses to explain this phenomenon, which Helena Vieira writing for the LSE has come up with. The first is about task independence – basically, the ability to do your own thing without depending on coworkers. This makes it easier for gay and lesbian workers to hide their sexual orientation and avoid the negative consequences of coming out. Therefore, Helena predicts that they’re more likely to work in jobs with higher task independence (think massage therapists and fire safety inspectors) than in ones with lower task independence (like construction workers and firefighters).

    The second hypothesis is all about social perceptiveness – the ability to read people’s reactions accurately. Since gay and lesbian individuals are often discriminated against from a young age, they’ve honed this skill as a survival tactic. Therefore, Helena expects that they’re more likely to work in jobs that require high levels of social perceptiveness (like psychologists and teachers) rather than in ones where it’s not as necessary (like laboratory scientists and actuarial analysts).

    To sum it up, the prediction is that gay and lesbian workers gravitate towards jobs that offer a high degree of task independence or require a high level of social perceptiveness (or both). It might seem like these two things are at odds, but in reality, they often go hand in hand. Task independence means less dependence on coworkers and supervisors, while social perceptiveness often comes in handy when dealing with customers, patients, or students.

    The London School of Economics analyzed data from two sources – the American Community Survey and the U.S. National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health – and found that the LSE’s predictions held true. Check out Tables 1 and 2 for the nitty gritty details.

    So, what does all of this mean for the future? Well, as society becomes more accepting of same-sex relationships, the need for gay and lesbian workers to hide their sexuality may decrease over time. This could mean they lose their keen social perceptiveness skills and become less distinct in the labour market. But for now, we expect these occupational patterns to stick around for a while. They’re slow to change, reflecting earlier education and career choices, and the gay- and lesbian-friendly reputation of certain jobs tends to persist.

    What are the jobs with the highest number of gay workers?

    Body-n-Care / Pixabay
    Table 1. Occupations with the Highest Joint Proportion of Gay and Lesbian Workers
    1. Psychologists (S, T)
    2. Training and development specialists and managers (S)
    3. Social and community service managers (S, T)
    4. Technical writers (T)
    5. Occupational therapists (S, T)
    6. Massage therapists (S, T)
    7. Urban and regional planners (S, T)
    8. Producers and directors (S, T)
    9. Postsecondary teachers (S, T)
    10. Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists (S, T)
    11. Morticians, undertakers, and funeral directors (S)
    12. Physical therapists and exercise physiologists (S, T)
    13. Computer and information systems managers (S, T)
    14. Lawyers, and judges, magistrates, and other judicial workers (S, T)
    15. Web developers (T)
    S = Occupation requires above-average social perceptiveness 
    T = Above-average task independence is associated with the occupation
    Female- and Male-Majority Occupations with Highest Proportion of Gay or Lesbian Workers
    Highest proportion of lesbians among female workersHighest proportion of gay men among male workers 
    Female-majority occupations1. Psychologists (S, T)

    2. Probation officers/correctional treatment specialist (S, T)

    3. Training and development specialists and managers (S)

    4. Sociologists (S, T)

    5. Social and community service managers (S, T)    		1. Flight attendants (S)

    2. Hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists (S, T)

    3. Nurse practitioners (S, T)

    4. Transportation attendants, except flight attendants (S)

    5. Travel agents (S, T)
    Male-majority occupations
    1. Bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists

    2. Elevator installers/repairers (T)

    3. Heating, A/C, and refrigeration mechanics/installers (T)

    4. Home appliance repairers (T)

    5. Security and fire alarm systems installers (T)    		1. Actors (S, T)

    2. News analysts, reporters, and correspondents (S, T)

    3. Artists and related workers (S, T)

    4. Agents/managers of artists, performers, athletes (S, T)

    5. Producers and directors (S, T)
    S = Occupation requires above-average social perceptiveness 
    T = Above-average task independence is associated with the occupation

    The study predicts that the observed occupational patterns are likely to remain in place for the foreseeable future. This is because occupational patterns are slow to change and continue to reflect earlier educational and career choices, as well as the enduring gay- or lesbian-friendly reputation of certain occupations that continue to attract gay and lesbian workers.

  • Lord Brian Paddock’s husband, Petter dies unexpectedly

    Brian Paddick is left “devastated” by the untimely death of his husband, Petter Belsvik.

    British politician Brian Paddick has shared the sad news that his husband, Petter Belsvik, has passed away “peacefully alone” at their home in Oslo, Norway. Brian, who is a former contestant on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! and a member of the Liberal Democrats, announced the news on social media, telling his 14,300 followers that Petter’s cause of death is not yet clear.

    In his tribute, Brian described Petter as his “beautiful, loving husband,” and expressed his devastation at the sudden loss. He added that he and Petter were devoted to each other, and that it will take some time to understand what happened.

    Brian’s followers and colleagues quickly offered condolences, with Charlene White from Loose Women and I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! sending their love to him and his family. The news has been met with sadness from many who knew Brian and Petter, and they will undoubtedly be missed by those close to them.

    The news of Petter Belsvik’s passing has prompted an outpouring of love and support for Brian Paddick from various public figures. Labour MP Jess Phillips, Sky News’ Kay Burley, and Claire Fox are just some of the many people who have expressed their condolences to Brian and his family.

    Not much is known about Petter’s life, but he met Brian in a bar while they were both on holiday in Ibiza. The couple got married in Norway in 2009, just over a week after same-sex marriage was legalised in the country. Their wedding was one of the first high-profile same-sex weddings in Norway.

    Reflecting on how they met, Brian once said that he was “minding his own business” when he met Petter, and they spent just 24 hours together before parting ways.

    Despite this, they clearly formed a strong bond and were devoted to each other until Petter’s sudden passing.

    In addition to their chance meeting in Ibiza, Brian once revealed that a “divine intervention” brought him and Petter together again. When Madonna was playing at Wembley Arena, Petter happened to be in town to see her live. Brian, who lived nearby, offered Petter a place to stay to save on hotel costs. Brian described this as a “gamble,” but it clearly paid off as they went on to build a life together and create many happy memories before Petter’s untimely death.

    When Brian and Petter first met, they were leading very different lives. Brian was working long hours as the Deputy Assistant Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police at New Scotland Yard, while Petter was working as an engineer in Oslo. Despite the challenges of a long-distance relationship, they were clearly devoted to each other and managed to make it work.

    While they went on to build a life together and get married, Brian and Petter often kept their relationship out of the media spotlight. They preferred to focus on their love for each other and enjoy their time together away from the glare of public attention.