RMT will affiliate to national LGBT support line Switchboard, the union’s delegates agreed today.

Delegates backed the motion in recognition of the important role Switchboard has played in providing free and confidential support to the LGBT community for more than 50 years.

The move will strengthen the transport union’s support for LGBT members across the country.

Region 1 delegate Martin Duncan moved the motion, saying: “Switchboard has been a lifeline to more than four million LGBT people and allies across Britain, supporting them through some of the hardest and most defining moments in our history.

“Helping LGBT people feel that someone is listening, guiding, supportive, so that they can thrive, especially at a time of rising hostility towards our trans and non-binary siblings.”

Supporting the motion, transport worker Mohammed Mujahid said: “Switchboard provides a vital service for LGBT members and their wider community, particularly for those who may feel isolated or face challenges because of their religious or culture backgrounds.

“Believe me, I should know this.”

The motion was carried unanimously.