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Same-sex Couples

The impact of legislative changes

About this study

This is the first national study to assess the effect of important legislative changes on same-sex couples. These changes created a new socio-legal environment for same-sex (lesbian and gay) couples. They include the Civil Partnership Act (2004), Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) Regulations (2003) and the Adoption and Children Act (2002).

Read our findings here. They suggest that same-sex couples believe employment and adoption legislation gives them new rights and protecion from discrimination.

The Civil Partnership Act is also broadly welcome for its positive effect on the lives of civil partners as well as couples who have not registered their partnerships.

Timeline

Potential policy impact

This report has policy and practice implications for anyone involved in the areas of family, married life and the recognition of commitment; registration or recognition of same-sex partnerships; and adoption and workplace equality.

Method

This research was funded by the ESRC. We conducted 47 in-depth qualitative interviews with members of same-sex couples who had been in their relationship for at least two years.

Participants were purposively selected to ensure a diverse sample. The data was comprehensively and systematically analysed with the aid of Framework.

Of interest: