THE rainbow flag has been raised at council buildings to recognise diversity and identity.

The flags show support to LGBTQ+ communities and mark the start of LGBT History Month.

Ceremonies were also held in Weymouth and Dorchester attended by councillors, council staff, members of Unison and local LGBT groups.

Chairman of West Dorset District Council, Cllr Peter Shorland and Mayor of Dorchester David Taylor raised the rainbow flag – a symbol of LGBTQ+ pride – outside South Walks House in Dorchester.

Cllr Shorland said: “By raising the LGBT flag at our offices, we are demonstrating that we are allies to the LGBT community.

"Our offices, as places to work and where services are delivered, are a safe place where we respect the diversity of love, relationships and identity.

"We strive to reflect this in the services we provide, while committing to continuing to learn and improve.”

WDDC portfolio holder for Equalities, Cllr Stella Jones said: "We're proud to be flying the rainbow flag on behalf of West Dorset. We want to show to that we be believe in equal rights and equal treatment for everyone in our community. And that we recognise the struggles LGBTQ+ have faced, and still face, on daily basis."

Mayor of Weymouth & Portland Gill Taylor raised the flag at Weymouth & Portland Borough Council's offices at Commercial Road.

She said: “This year is a particularly significant year for the LGBT community as it marks the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots in New York which was probably the most significant event in the leading to the gay liberation movement and the fight for LGBT rights in the United States.

“In the United Kingdom, LGBT History Month is recognised as an opportunity to demonstrate that LGBT people are welcome, valued and respected in our community. To raise awareness, to educate and to inform; and to celebrate achievements and sending out a clear message of support and campaigning against the ongoing discrimination and inequality faced by their community.

“However we are all one community and that is something we should never forget.”

The borough's briefholder for Social Inclusion Cllr Jon Orrell added: "We're flying the rainbow flag with pride in recognition of the LGBTQ+ members of our community. We want people to see that Weymouth and Portland is a place were LGBTQ+ people can live, work and visit free from discrimination and stigma."

Unison Dorset helped to organised this event. The rainbow flags will fly during the first week of February to show the councils' support to members of the LGBTQ+ community.