In recent years, the UK has been seen as a leader in LGBTQIA+ rights, with progressive policies and increasing social acceptance.
Sadly, beneath the surface, there have been concerning signs that progress is stalling or even reversing. From policy changes to rising hostility, various factors are making life more difficult for non-straight people in the UK. While this is still arguably one of the safest places for queer and gender non-conforming people to live in the world, rights for LGBTQIA+ people are certainly not a given and are constantly under threat in some big ways.
1. Access to gender-affirming healthcare is being restricted.
For transgender people, gender-affirming healthcare is crucial, yet recent policy changes have made it harder to access. In December 2024, NHS England indefinitely banned puberty blockers for under-18s outside of clinical trials, a move that has been heavily criticised by LGBTQIA+ organisations and medical professionals. The decision has left many young transgender people in limbo, unable to access the care they need to feel comfortable in their own bodies. The restrictions are part of a wider trend of increased scrutiny over trans healthcare, with long waiting lists, limited providers, and political debates interfering with medical decisions. Many trans people now face years-long delays before even being assessed for hormone treatment, further impacting their mental health. The erosion of healthcare access is leaving many feeling unsupported and abandoned by the system.
2. Hate crimes against gay and trans people are rising.
Despite greater visibility, hate crimes targeting queer and trans people in Britain have been increasing. Recent data from the Home Office shows a surge in reported incidents, particularly against transgender people, with hate crimes based on gender identity almost doubling in the past five years. This alarming rise is contributing to a climate of fear and uncertainty for many in the community. Even more concerning is the underreporting of these crimes, as many victims do not feel confident that the police will take their complaints seriously. Reports of victims being dismissed or not taken seriously further discourage people from speaking out. The increase in attacks, combined with a lack of trust in law enforcement, is leaving many LGBTQIA+ people feeling unsafe in their own communities.
3. LGBTQIA+ representation in education is being censored.
Schools are meant to be spaces of learning and inclusion, yet queer representation in British schools is under threat. A recent survey found that over two dozen school librarians were asked to remove LGBTQIA+ books from their collections, raising concerns about censorship. The push to erase these stories from schools is making it harder for young people to access representation and support. Inclusive education is essential for encouraging acceptance and understanding, yet there is growing pressure from some political and parental groups to limit discussions about LGBTQIA+ identities. The removal of these books is part of a broader attempt to restrict conversations about gender identity and sexuality in schools, leaving gay and gender non-conforming students feeling erased and unsupported.
4. Queer media platforms are struggling to survive.
Having dedicated LGBTQIA+ media outlets is crucial for representation, but the future of some of Britain’s most prominent platforms is uncertain. The potential closure of PinkNews, one of the UK’s leading queer news platforms, has sparked fears about the diminishing visibility of queer voices in the media. Without these platforms, coverage of the community’s issues could become less frequent and less nuanced. The struggles of queer media reflect a larger issue: the decline in funding and support for independent journalism. As mainstream news outlets reduce their LGBTQIA+ coverage and dedicated platforms face financial challenges, there is a growing concern that these vital stories will be pushed further to the margins, making it harder for the community to stay informed and connected.
5. Mental health disparities remain a serious issue.
Source: Unsplash Despite progress in societal attitudes, LGBTQIA+ people in the UK continue to face significant mental health challenges. Studies have shown that they are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts compared to their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts. The combination of discrimination, societal pressure, and a lack of accessible support services is exacerbating these issues. Many queer people report feeling unsupported by mental health professionals, with some even experiencing discrimination when getting help. This has led to widespread distrust in healthcare services, making it harder for those in need to access the care they require. Without targeted mental health interventions and inclusive support systems, the well-being of the queer and trans community will continue to suffer.
6. Workplace discrimination is still a reality.
While workplace protections for LGBTQIA+ employees exist in Britain, discrimination remains a persistent problem. Many employees fear coming out at work due to concerns about being treated differently, passed over for promotions, or even losing their jobs. Research suggests that gay and trans people still face wage gaps and career stagnation compared to their heterosexual peers. Even in workplaces that claim to be inclusive, microaggressions and subtle forms of discrimination are common. Many employees report feeling the need to hide their identity in professional settings, limiting their ability to be their authentic selves. Without stronger enforcement of anti-discrimination policies, many will continue to face barriers in the workplace.
7. Transgender legal rights are under attack.
In recent years, Britain has been slipping backwards in terms of legal protections for transgender people. The UK government’s decision to block Scotland’s Gender Recognition Reform Bill was widely seen as a step back for trans rights, preventing easier access to legal gender recognition. The move was criticised by human rights groups as an unnecessary intervention that undermines trans equality. The rejection of the bill reflects a wider hostility towards trans rights in UK politics, with public debates becoming increasingly polarised. Many trans people now feel that their rights are being politicised rather than protected, leading to increased uncertainty about their legal status and access to basic rights.
8. LGBTQIA+ students are still facing discrimination.
University should be a place of growth and acceptance, but many gay and gender non-conforming students still experience discrimination and exclusion. Research has found that a significant number of students hide their identities at university due to fear of judgement or hostility from peers and lecturers. It leads to a sense of isolation and limits their ability to fully engage in student life. Some universities have implemented LGBTQIA+ support services, but these are not consistent across the country. Without strong institutional support, many students feel like they have to navigate their university experience alone, adding to the pressures they already face.
9. The UK government is failing to protect LGBTQIA+ asylum seekers.
LGBTQIA+ asylum seekers come to the UK seeking safety from persecution, yet many find themselves facing new challenges. The asylum system has been criticised for being overly harsh and dismissive of these applicants, with many being denied refugee status despite facing clear threats in their home countries. Instead of offering protection, the government has been tightening restrictions on asylum applications, making it harder for LGBTQIA+ people to prove their need for safety. It leaves many in dangerous situations, either being forced to return to hostile environments or living in uncertainty in the UK.
10. Queer public spaces are disappearing.
Gay bars, clubs, and community centres have historically played a vital role in providing safe spaces for the community, yet many of these spaces are closing down due to rising rents, gentrification, and a lack of funding. This has made it harder for queer and trans people to find places where they can connect, socialise, and feel safe. With fewer physical spaces dedicated to this community, social isolation is becoming a bigger issue. These spaces aren’t just about nightlife — they’re hubs for activism, support, and community-building. Losing them means losing a vital part of LGBTQIA+ culture and identity.
11. Political rhetoric is becoming increasingly hostile.
Anti-LGBTQIA+ sentiment has been growing in British politics, with many politicians using trans rights and queer inclusion as divisive talking points. This has led to an increase in discriminatory policies and a rise in public hostility towards the community. As political debates become more heated, many non-straight people feel like their rights are being used as a battleground rather than being treated as human rights issues. The hostile environment created by this rhetoric is making it harder for progress to continue.
