Paul Montgomery

I am Professor of Social Intervention in the School of Social Policy. I run research projects on the methodology and practice of what works in social care around a number of fields. Having previously attended the Stonewall LGBT Role Models Programme, I believe that having good role models is really important for students and other staff to see that people can be openly LGBTQ and successful.

I have not always been open about being gay and, with hindsight, I regret that. I think for everybody there is a certain point at which you change from coming out to yourself to coming out to wider communities, and that never really stops. Eventually, I got tired of hiding. I think that, in general, mental health improves when a person has only one story running. When there are multiple stories, it takes real emotional effort to manage, so I think straightforwardness just makes life easier.

Being gay is an important part of who I am but I wouldn’t say it is an overarching defining feature. I would not criticise somebody for not being ‘out’ in their workplace but I strongly believe that everyone should be able to be who they are. It helps with bringing down barriers and getting acceptance.

I would say that the University of Birmingham is very keen to be accepting of everyone. In my experience, in a fairly short time here, being openly gay has not been an issue. I have a number of gay colleagues and it has been great to find such warm acceptance.

As a message to new LGBTQ members of staff and students I would say - be honest. Allow colleagues and students to see that LGBTQ people are part of the norm, can succeed and do well… as well as being happy.