The main aims of the LGBT campaign are:

1. To lobby for the introduction of civil marriage for lesbian and gay couples, which includes the right to raise a family.

The right to marry who you love isn't just an issue of gay rights - it is a basic human right.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 16 states that "Men and women, of full age, without any limitation due to race, nationality or religion, have the right to marry and to found a family. They are entitled to equal rights as to marriage, during marriage, and at its dissolution".

The Civil Partnership Bill clearly contravenes this Article. The USI LGBT Campaign is fighting for full Civil Marriage, as the state does not have the right to legislate the religious views of some on every citizen.

2. To highlight the issue of increasing mental health issues among the LGBT community.

The recently published findings of the LGBT Lives Survey contained some frightening statistics. It found that over 25% of LGBT young people have self harmed, and nearly 20% have self harmed at some point during their lives. As a result of this, it is imperative that the LGBT Campaign does something to promote positive mental health, and to inform people of the support services available to them.

It is also hoped to work with Student Health Services in the various COs to inform them about the issues specific to LGBT mental health.

3. To inform the LGBT Community of the issues surrounding illegal drug use and abuse of alcohol

Anecdotal evidence suggests there is a strong prevalence of serious drug and alcohol abuse within the LGBT community.

As there are strong links between poor mental health and drug and alcohol abuse, it is planned to run a non directive campaign, designed to educate people about the dangers of substance abuse, particularly the affects of poppers. This will allow people to have the facts and make up their own minds.

The USI will be linking in with BeLonG To and other interest groups for this campaign.