With a lot of hard work, Stonewall have pulled what might seem like an unbelievable rabbit out of the hat. I'm not sure that everyone realises what a milestone getting partnership equality is in a world seemingly dominated with religious fundamentalists and/or plain bigots. And the UK appears to have generally taken to it in a very sensible and adult way with Civil Partnership celebrations all over the country.

While politics and community issues may seem like a distraction to partying the night away, lunching with friends or shopping for the latest designer gear, it is, nevertheless, imperative that everyone in the UK – gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or straight, makes time for an organisation such as Stonewall.

Founded in the late eighties by women and men, active in the struggle against Section 28, the aim was to create a professional lobbying group that would prevent the occurrence of such attacks against lesbians, gay men and bisexuals. The case for equality was put to all the main political parties and support was won, which has now resulted in the Partnership Bill Proposal being brought to the table and the first Civil Partnerships taking place in December 2005.

The organisation has expanded, both geographically (Scotland and Wales in addition to England), increased their infrastructure, and have established an effective working network with other organisations.

Work is sustained by a highly professional team of staff, but also by a large group of highly dedicated volunteers and thousands of individuals.

So, what is there left to achieve. The answer is; a great deal. There are still hate crimes, leading to actual cases of murder, happening every day. Individuals have committed suicide as a result of constant homophobic bullying at school. Stonewall needs to get across the importance of education in helping to prevent these cases. Helping Stonewall to achieve this could save lives.