For example, in the United States in 2011 systematic discriminatory behaviour by extension workers resulted in a class action suit being settled in favour of female farmers (Croppenstedt 2013). " Non-traditional" farming households (e.g. youth-headed households, same-sex households, or alternative communes and collective living arrangements) are often not recognized by authorities or agencies and thus cannot access the usual types of assistance. In many countries LGBT relationships are illegal and same-sex households face considerable social hostility. In a few places, traditional attitudes have begun to change: for example, the Department of Agriculture in the United States has introduced an LGBT liaison office (USDA 2015).