A legacy rooted in courage and collective action
LGBT History Month gives us an opportunity not only to reflect on where we have come from, but to ask an important question: how do we make sure our history continues to shape our future? For Napo, this is not an abstract discussion. Our union has a long and proud record of LGBT+ activism, rooted in courage, collective action and the determination of members who chose to get involved even when doing so carried personal and professional risk.
Remembering Michael Lloyd and the roots of LAGIP
As we mark LGBT History Month 2025, we do so while remembering Michael Lloyd, who passed away last year. Michael was a founding figure of LAGIP – Lesbian and Gay in Probation and a tireless campaigner for LGBT equality within Napo and beyond. His reflections on LAGIP’s history remind us that progress was never inevitable — it was won through persistence, solidarity and the bravery of individuals who refused to accept discrimination as “just the way things were”.
From informal meetings to national recognition
LAGIP emerged from informal, self-organised meetings at Napo conferences in the early 1970s, at a time when being openly lesbian or gay could put careers, and sometimes livelihoods, at risk. Michael and others challenged homophobia in the workplace and pushed Napo to campaign publicly for decriminalisation, equalisation of the age of consent and the repeal of Section 28. Under their leadership, LAGIP later fought for the inclusion of bisexual and trans members, recognising that unity across difference made the movement stronger. By 2002, LAGIP was formally recognised by the National Probation Service as the staff association for LGBT employees — a landmark achievement secured through years of activism and determination.
The legacy continues: PiPP and today’s LGBT+ activism
Although LAGIP no longer exists, its legacy — and Michael Lloyd’s contribution to it — lives on. Napo continues to work closely with PiPP (Pride in Prisons and Probation), the successor staff network. Since its launch in 2016, PiPP has grown from a small opt-in network into a nationally recognised voice for LGBT+ staff, combining grassroots organising with national influence. Its work on trans inclusion, staff support, training and policy development reflects the same values that drove LAGIP: visibility, solidarity and collective action.
Turning history into action: roadshows and engagement
That shared commitment was clearly demonstrated during Napo’s LGBT History Month roadshows, delivered a few years ago in partnership with PiPP and rooted firmly in LAGIP’s campaigning heritage. These events created safe and inclusive spaces for LGBT+ staff and allies to connect, hear from senior leaders, and explore how probation services can better support both staff and service users. Practical workshops facilitated by PiPP ensured that lived experience informed discussion — and that discussion translated into action.
What members are telling us now
Looking ahead, the findings of the Napo LGBT+ Network member survey give us a clear message. Members want the Network to focus on workplace inclusion, policy advocacy, professional development and peer support. They value meetings that are welcoming, relevant and accessible, with hybrid options and opportunities to contribute rather than simply observe. The most significant barriers identified were workload pressures, timing and lack of awareness, not lack of interest.
Making involvement possible — and meaningful
This matters, because it tells us something important: LGBT+ members want to be involved — but involvement must fit around real working lives. Activism does not always begin with leading a campaign. As Michael Lloyd often reflected, change starts when ordinary members decide to show up, speak up and support one another. That is how confidence grows, and how movements are sustained.
Building the next chapter of LGBT+ organising in Napo
For LGBT History Month 2025, Napo is committed to building on this proud legacy by creating more opportunities for LGBT+ members to engage, shape priorities and influence our union’s work. Quarterly LGBT+ Network meetings will continue, informed by the survey feedback:
Upcoming Napo LGBT+ Network Meetings will all be held as Virtual Meetings on Teams at 11am on the following dates:
- 10 February
- 9th June
- 22nd September
- 8th December
These meetings are open to LGBT+ members and allies alike. Whether you are newly engaged or have years of experience, your voice matters.
If you would like to find out more about the LGBT network, please contact me at rsingh@napo.org.uk
Get involved with Napo
LGBT History Month is not only about remembering the past — it is about honouring it through action. Michael Lloyd and those who stood alongside him showed what is possible when people get involved, even in difficult circumstances. The challenges we face today may look different, but the need for participation remains the same.
If you care about equality, dignity and inclusion at work, Napo needs you. Getting involved can mean joining the LGBT+ Network, attending meetings, sharing your experiences, supporting campaigns or simply staying connected.
Our history shows what can be achieved. Our members are telling us they want to do more. Now is the time to carry that legacy forward.
Be part of Napo’s next chapter. Get involved. (To join the Network please contact Ranjit Singh at rsingh@napo.org.uk).
