SCOTTISH gay rights charity the Equality Network unveiled a new “LGBT sports charter” yesterday at the national ground Hampden Park in a bid to tackle homophobia and transphobia in sport and better include LGBT people.

The Equality Network drew up the charter after its 2012 Out for Sport report revealed that LGBT people faced high barriers to participation in Scottish sport but that little or no action was being taken to remove them.

But, three years on, the group praised Scottish sports bodies for signing up to the charter and pledging to challenge prejudice and better involve LGBT people.

Equality Network development co-ordinator Scott Cuthbertson said: “LGBT people in Scotland still face significant barriers to full inclusion in sport.

“The charter is an important step to addressing those barriers and commits [sports bodies] to taking practical action to tackle discrimination and increase LGBT involvement.

“By proactively challenging prejudice whenever it occurs, visibly supporting LGBT inclusion and training staff in LGBT issues, we know that the efforts of sports bodies will play a crucial role in ensuring that Scottish sport is a safe and welcoming environment for all.”