Working on the LGBTQ+ Action Plan for Wales has been one of the most meaningful experiences in my career. The Plan focuses on creating a more inclusive and equitable society for LGBTQ+ individuals in Wales, tackling key issues such as discrimination, healthcare access, and representation in education.
In my role, I worked closely with Welsh Ministers and Welsh Government divisions, health boards, local authorities, universities, charities, private sector organisations, and communities. This ensured that the plan reflected the real experiences of LGBTQ+ people across Wales. Listening to people’s stories was crucial in shaping policies that make a difference in areas like health and mental health services, especially for trans and non-binary individuals.
Besides producing and publishing the Action Plan, I would like to mention five highlights of my work on the plan:
- Expansion of Support Services for Survivors of Conversion Practices
I helped expand vital support services for survivors of conversion practices in Wales. This work ensures that people who have been subjected to these harmful practices can access the care and help they need. - All-Wales Grassroots Pride Fund
I was involved in setting up an All-Wales Grassroots Pride Fund. This fund supports smaller Pride events, helping them engage with LGBTQ+ people and broader communities, ensuring that even the most localised celebrations have the resources to thrive. - Trans Guidance for Schools and Local Authorities
I contributed to the development of clear, supportive guidance for schools and local authorities on how best to support trans and non-binary students. This work aims to ensure that all students feel safe, respected, and valued within the education system. - Supporting LGBTQ+ Veterans
I worked closely with Lord Etherton KC and his team on the independent review into the impact of the criminalisation of being gay in the British military. Our aim was to ensure that LGBTQ+ veterans, who suffered due to these discriminatory laws, are properly recognised and supported. - RSE Code: I supported the development and implementation of the new curriculum for Wales, updated on 31 January 2023. I contributed to developing resources to implement the Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) Code.
Evaluability assessment of the LGBTQ+ Action Plan for Wales
It’s also gratifying to see a key piece of work on evaluating the LGBTQ+ Action Plan for Wales published by Llywodraeth Cymru / Welsh Government.
LINK: https://www.gov.wales/lgbtq-action-plan-wales-evaluability-assessment
As the former Head of LGBTQ+ Policy, I had the honour of leading the team that designed and developed this project alongside the brilliant teams from the Equality Evidence Units and Researchers in the Welsh Government, and then with Alma Economics.
This report stands as a testament to the power of collaboration—bringing together communities, policymakers, and service providers across Wales. With invaluable contributions from Welsh Government officials and LGBTQ+ organisations and experts, we collectively shaped a theory of change and identified meaningful metrics to evaluate this Action Plan. It’s a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we work together with purpose and resolve.
These are just a few examples of how we’ve worked to make Wales a safer and more inclusive place for LGBTQ+ people. Seeing these initiatives come to life has been incredibly rewarding.
For more details, you can explore the LGBTQ+ Action Plan Progress Update.
Dr Alessandro Ceccarelli 