We’re proud to stand with the LGBTQ+ community and recognise Pride as a powerful symbol of visibility, resilience, and unity.
Since UK Pride began in 1972, it has become a global celebration of diversity and equality.
The video highlights what Pride means to our students and why it remains such an important part of university life. It’s a reminder of the progress made and the work still to do.
We’re building a future where authenticity is celebrated, voices are heard, and every student feels proud to be themselves.
Events
Loud, proud and unstoppable
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1967
The Sexual Offences Act (UK)
Decriminalised consensual homosexual acts in private between two men aged 21 and over in England and Wales.
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1969
Stonewall Riots (USA)
A pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history. The protests in New York City sparked the global Pride movement.
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1972
First UK Pride March
Held in London, inspired by the Stonewall movement, with around 2,000 people marching.
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1981
Start of the AIDS Crisis
The first AIDS cases were reported, marking a major global health crisis for the LGBTQ+ community.
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1982
Decriminalisation in Northern Ireland
Following a European Court ruling, consensual same-sex relationships were finally decriminalised in Northern Ireland—15 years after England and Wales.
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1987
Terrence Higgins Trust Founded
Named after one of the first people in the UK to die from AIDS, it became one of the UK’s first HIV charities, supporting those affected and raising awareness.
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1988
Section 28 Introduced (UK)
A controversial law that banned the “promotion” of homosexuality in schools. It led to mass protests and years of campaigning.
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1992
World Health Organisation Declassifies Homosexuality as a Mental Illness
A key moment in challenging stigma on a global scale.
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1999
First Trans Day of Remembrance
Held to honour the memory of trans people lost to anti-trans violence, founded in response to the murder of Rita Hester. It's now marked globally every November 20th.
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2000
Ban Lifted on LGBTQ+ People Serving in the British Armed Forces
A major step toward equality and inclusion in public service.
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2003
Repeal of Section 28 (UK)
A long-awaited victory for activists and educators. Marked a turning point for LGBTQ+ rights in schools.
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2004
Gender Recognition Act (UK)
Gave trans people the legal right to change their gender and gain a new birth certificate.
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2010
Equality Act (UK)
Protected people from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in workplaces, education, and services.
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2012
PrEP Introduced
A daily pill that prevents HIV. A major breakthrough in HIV prevention.
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2013
Same-Sex Marriage Legalised in England & Wales
Scotland followed in 2014 and Northern Ireland in 2020. A defining moment for love and equality.
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2014
PEP More Widely Available in the UK
Emergency medication that can stop HIV after exposure, now easier to access.
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2020
Ban on LGBTQ+ Conversion Therapy Debated
Campaigns grow stronger in pushing for a full legal ban in the UK. Still ongoing today.
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2021
First Openly Trans MP in UK Parliament
Jamie Wallis comes out as transgender, becoming the UK’s first MP to do so.
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2023
First Non-Binary Mayor in the UK
Owen Hurcum, elected in Wales, represents growing visibility for non-binary people in politics.
Freedom of Speech and the Supreme Court: What the latest ruling means for you
We’ve put everything you need to know in one place — what’s changed, what it means, and why it matters to you as a Hallam student. If you’ve got questions, concerns, or just want to talk, we’re here for you. You’ll also find information on support available at the university and across Sheffield.
Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and free to be themselves — no matter your background, identity, or beliefs. We’re proud to support a diverse and inclusive campus community.
Read our full statement
Celebrating Sheffield Communities
Explore communities and spaces where LGBTQ+ people and allies connect, create, and thrive — both at Hallam and across Sheffield.
Whether you're into sport, creativity, activism, or just want to meet people who get it, there's a place for you.
Local organisations
- Rainbow Minds - A welcoming weekly drop-in café every Wednesday. Perfect for meeting new people, taking part in activities, or just having a relaxed chat in a safe space.
- Out Aloud - Sheffield’s vibrant community choir, open to all voices and dedicated to celebrating diversity through the power of music.
- E.D.E.N Film Productions - An independent company using film to amplify voices and stories, with regular workshops and creative opportunities.
- SAYiT - A local charity providing youth groups, counselling, and a wide range of support services for young people exploring identity, wellbeing, and belonging.
- Sheffield Women’s Collective - A grassroots group creating welcoming and inclusive spaces for women and non-binary people to connect, share, and support each other.
- Trans Happiness Sheffield - A wholesome online community promoting trans joy, positivity, and local happenings, with a big focus on wellbeing and visibility.
- Sheffield Queer Parents - A supportive network for parents and caregivers to share experiences, find advice, and connect with others in similar situations.
- Queer Writes - A fortnightly creative writing group open to all experience levels. Whether you're into poetry, short stories, or journaling, it’s a space to express and explore.
Student-led societies
Not every space has to be identity-specific to feel welcoming. The societies below aren’t exclusively LGBTQ+, but they’re inclusive, friendly, and reflect the diverse mix of interests and communities at Hallam.
This is just a small selection of the many student-led groups you can get involved with.
View all societies
Sports and movement
- Rainbow Blades - Sheffield United’s inclusive supporters group, championing diversity in football.
- The Inhuman League - Sheffield’s men’s roller derby team, open to players of all identities and backgrounds.
- Queer Skate Sheffield – A community-led skateboarding group running meetups and sessions across the city for anyone seeking a safe and expressive space.
- Trans Active – Offering inclusive sport and fitness activities designed specifically for trans and non-binary people in Sheffield.
- Sheffield Vulcans – A rugby club creating a welcoming space for gay, bi, and trans men, along with supportive allies.
- Trans Climbing Sheffield – A friendly climbing group open to all trans, non-binary, and gender-diverse people, whatever their level of experience.
- Fri-Gay Night at TCH – A monthly social climbing session for ages 14+, with coaching, community vibes, and a free hot drink to kick things off.
- LGBTQ+ Night at Depot – A relaxed climbing evening with informal coaching in a supportive and encouraging setting.
Sheffield Drag scene
Sheffield's drag scene is a dynamic blend of talent, creativity, and community spirit. From dazzling performances to inclusive events, there's something for everyone to enjoy and celebrate.
Local Drag Artists:
- Emma Maezin – A standout performer in Sheffield, Emma Maezin captivates audiences with her charisma and flair. Beyond the stage, she engages fans through music releases and vibrant social media content.
- Bipolar Abdul – Known for their eclectic performances, Bipolar Abdul brings energy and uniqueness to the stage.
- Ditzy O’Darlin – With a flair for the theatrical, Ditzy O’Darlin delivers performances that are both entertaining and memorable. She frequently collaborates with fellow artists, adding sparkle to Sheffield's drag events.
Drag Events and Venues:
- Andro & Eve – Known for joyful events and creative projects and workshops and inclusive parties, this arts organisation champions queer culture through drag, film, zines, and more. Keep your eyes out for upcoming events!
- Cryptid Queer Sheffield – An alternative event series showcasing the spooky, experimental, and boundary-pushing side of the drag scene.
- The Leadmill – A historic venue in Sheffield, The Leadmill hosts a variety of drag events, from sing-along specials to performances by renowned artists like Myra Dubois.
- Skiddle – Sheffield Drag Listings – For a comprehensive list of upcoming drag shows in Sheffield, Skiddle offers ticket information and event details to keep you updated on the latest happenings.
Trans and Non-Binary support
- Trans Sheffield - A peer-support network offering meetups, advice, and a welcoming community space.
- Mindline Trans+ – A confidential helpline providing emotional support for trans, non-binary, and gender-diverse people.
- Gendered Intelligence – A national organisation offering local sessions, support services, and educational resources.
- Sheffield Trans Pride - An annual celebration centring trans joy and visibility. This year’s event takes place on 24 August 2025.
- Notts Trans Hub – A Nottingham-based support group also connecting people across South Yorkshire and the East Midlands.
- Mermaids – A UK charity supporting trans, non-binary, and gender-diverse young people and their families through advice, advocacy, and helplines.
- Switchboard – A confidential, LGBTQ+ inclusive helpline offering support from trained volunteers with lived experience, including for trans and non-binary callers.
Places to go
Sheffield is full of LGBTQ+ friendly spaces where you can relax, connect, and celebrate community, we've highlighted some of the best places to visit.
We’ve also included notes where venues offer gender-neutral bathrooms, helping you find spaces where you can feel comfortable and be yourself.
Bars and pubs
- The Rutland Arms – Eclectic pub in the city centre with a relaxed, inclusive vibe (gender-neutral facilities.)
- Sidney & Matilda – Bar and venue blending gigs, art shows, and club nights, known for its creative and open-minded atmosphere (gender-neutral facilities.)
- The Harlequin - Cosy, laid-back spot with a focus on craft beer and a broad, diverse crowd (gendered facilities.)
- Industry Tap – Modern craft beer bar with a chilled atmosphere, offering a space that’s open and friendly to all (gendered facilities, but staff are supportive and inclusive.)
- Piña – Stylish Mexican-inspired bar in Kelham Island, serving up tacos and cocktails in a fun, mixed crowd setting (single-user, gender-neutral facilities.)
- Cheap Dates – Queer-led dive bar with inclusive events and live music, committed to creating a safe and affirming space for all.
- The Three Tuns - An inclusive, centrally located pub often used as a social starting point for queer events (gendered facilities.)
- Haggler's Corner - A chilled café bar with live music and a laid-back atmosphere (gender-neutral facilities.)
- Maggie May's - Late-night bar in Sheffield City Centre, offering great tunes and a inclusive atmosphere for all (gender-neutral facilities on Thursdays.)
Cafés and social spaces
- Steam Yard – Artisan café popular with Sheffield’s creative crowd, known for its warm, inclusive atmosphere (gendered facilities.)
- Mandala Café – Queer-owned café that regularly hosts community nights, socials, and creative events (gender-neutral facilities.)
- Treehouse Board Game Café– Monthly socials and a playful, friendly vibe make this a great spot for connection and community (gender-neutral facilities.)
- South Street Kitchen – Vegetarian café with a strong sense of inclusivity, nestled in the iconic Park Hill Flats (gender-neutral facilities.)
- Peak Queer Adventures - Sheffield-based, non-hierarchical outdoors collective helping queer folks take up space in the outdoors through activities like hiking, rock climbing, swimming, and cycling.
- Hatch – DIY venue and collective based in Sheffield, known for its eclectic schedule and intimate, inclusive atmosphere.
- Pom Kitchen - Aussie-inspired vegan and veggie eatery in Crookes, known for its vibrant décor and celebration of fresh, natural flavours.
- Café 9 - Quirky café and live music venue in Nether Edge, offering a cosy atmosphere and regular folk, blues, and world music events.
- Birdhouse Tea Bar & Kitchen - A cosy, inclusive spot in Sheffield serving speciality teas, coffee, and homemade treats. Perfect for a relaxed catch-up or quiet study session (gender-neutral facilities.)
Street food and dining
- Terrace Goods – Laid-back street food hall with good accessibility (gender-neutral facilities.)
- Church: Temple of Fun - Vegan bar and restaurant in Kelham Island, known for its Pride-themed events and inclusive décor.
- Cutlery Works - One of Sheffield’s largest food hall featuring independent vendors, buzzing social spaces (gender-neutral facilities.)
- The Forum - A relaxed bar and café with all-day food, cocktails, and a spacious courtyard (gender-neutral facilities.)
- Saw Grinders Union - A chilled bar and eatery in a historic industrial setting, serving great food and drinks (gender-neutral facilities.)
- Cambridge St Collective - Europe’s largest purpose-built food hall, offering over 20 global street food vendors, a rooftop terrace, and a welcoming atmosphere (gender-neutral facilities.)
Clubs and nightlife
- Fruity Thursday's - A weekly social hosted by the Gut Level - Queer-led, community-run venue offering club nights, workshops, and social events in a welcoming, DIY spirit (gender-neutral facilities.)
- Mojo's - A lively bar in the heart of the city known for it's rock 'n' roll vibe, cocktails and inclusive atmosphere (gender-neutral facilities.)
- Network – Vibrant venue featuring drag shows, parties, and safe-space events.
- Grapefruit - A high-energy queer club night at the Foundry, featuring dance, chart, and disco anthems, with a dedicated photo area (gender-neutral facilities.)
- Queer Comedy Sheffield - Regular stand-up nights showcasing queer comics and fostering joyful, supportive vibes.
- Lane7 Sheffield - A lively bar with bowling, arcade games, street food, craft drinks (gender-neutral facilities.)
Hair salons and barbers
- Laundry for hair – Contemporary salon with a relaxed, gender-inclusive approach and a focus on making everyone feel at home.
- Funky Divas – Vibrant and upbeat salon offering a supportive space for self-expression through hair.
- Suebyz Hair Studio – Professional salon specialising in a wide range of hair types and textures, with a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
- Gypsy Rose Hair - Creative, alternative salon with a strong focus on individuality, self-expression, and community care.
Queer education and awareness
Explore articles that raise awareness, celebrate LGBTQ+ voices, and share important information for students. Learning and understanding help build stronger, safer communities for everyone.
Written by Jack Colburn
The contributions of Black individuals to history, art, and culture are more often than not side-lined, but there is one area where the contributions of Black radicals and trailblazers are unjustly understated: the LGBTQ+ Rights Movement.
Interested in how Black queer individuals and groups have shaped history and built the groundwork for all LGBTQ+ people today?
Find out more
Access to period products is a basic right, not a privilege - that's why we're taking steps to ensure no student has to miss out on education because of period poverty. Thanks to funding support from the JD Foundation and The National Lottery, we're able to provide a year's supply of free period products to 500 students.
Learn more
As part of our 16 Days campaign, hundreds of Hallam students signed a petition demanding Sheffield City Council (SCC) does more to hold venues accountable for tackling drink spiking. As of 14 February 2025, SCC has agreed to work with us on reviewing its local licensing policy to include specific measures on drink spiking.
Read about next steps
Remembering with Pride: The LGBTQ+ Heroes of the AIDS Crisis
In February 2024, our 2023/24 Women's Rep, Dot Williams, successfully passed a policy making consent education mandatory at Hallam. We've since developed a mini-module to provide students with clear and essential information on consent. The mini-module is currently being piloted as we gather student feedback. We're also working closely with teams across the University to ensure we're fully prepared for the new registration conditions (Condition E6: Harassment and Sexual Misconduct) from the Office for Students (OfS) which come into effect in August 2025.
Independent finds around Sheffield
Find independent shops, queer-owned businesses, and essentials for LGBTQ+ students. From books and merch to gifts and gender-affirming clothing, Sheffield offers plenty of places to shop with pride.
Bird's Yard
Independent gift store filled with art, handmade goods, and creations from local makers who celebrate diversity.
@birdsyard
La Biblioteka
City-centre bookshop championing underrepresented voices, with a strong focus on diverse and indie literature.
@labiblioteka
Jepps Books
Queer-run bookshop curating thoughtful selections of literature, zines, and community-made art.
@jeppsbooks
Juno Books
Crystal Peaks-based indie bookstore highlighting powerful stories and authors from a wide range of lived experiences.
@junobookssheff
Vulgar
Fun vintage clothing full of opulence and personality, offering bold styles for everyone.
@vulgar
MoonKo
Beautiful independent store featuring handmade jewellery, ceramics, art, and ethically sourced gifts, with regular support for queer artists.
@moonko____
Bear Tree Records
Independent record shop supporting diverse music and often spotlighting queer artists and local creatives.
@beartreerecords
Scavenger
A unique business that upcycles old climbing gear to create useful and beautiful alternatives, keeping designs simple but beautiful.
@made_by_scavenger
Red Brick Market
A warehouse filled with over 100 local traders, offering everything from vintage clothing to locally made art and one-off jewellery.
@redbrickmarket_sheffield
Fred Aldous
An award-winning speciality beer shop and tasting room, founded in 2013, now located in Leah's Yard in Sheffield City Centre.
@hophideout
Hop Hideout
A long-established shop supplying arts, crafts, and hobby materials, located in the heart of Sheffield in Fitzalan Square.
@fredaldous
Spectrum Outfitters
While not Sheffield-based, this trans-owned brand is an important name in gender-affirming wear, offering quality chest binders with a strong focus on comfort and accessibility.
@spectrumoutfitters
Explore queer culture
Whether you're looking for a new book to read, a film to watch, or music that speaks to you, we've gathered some amazing picks that highlight queer stories, creators, and culture.
Read
Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart
Winner of the 2020 Booker Prize, Shuggie Bain follows the youngest of three children, Shuggie, discovering his queerness in 1980s post-industrial working-class Glasgow.
Available at Adsetts Library, City Campus.
Heartstopper by Alice Oseman
This tender graphic novel series captures the joys and struggles of teen love between two boys navigating school, sexuality, and self-discovery (available to watch on Netflix).
Available at Adsetts Library, City Campus.
The Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily M. Danforth
This coming-of-age novel follows Cameron Post, a teen sent to conversion therapy after being caught with another girl, exploring identity, sexuality, and the journey toward self-acceptance (available to watch on Amazon Prime).
Available on Amazon.
Nimona by ND Stevenson
A rebellious shapeshifter and a villain team up in this witty, heartfelt graphic novel that explores identity, chaos, and queer resilience (available to watch on Netflix).
Available at Adsetts Library, City Campus.
Queer Love, Queer Life: An Anthology by Golnoush Nour, Matt Bates, Sarah Beal, and Kate Beal
An honest collection of queer writing and reflections. Expect warmth, heartbreak, joy, and the messy, beautiful realities of LGBTQ+ life.
Available on Amazon.
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
A gothic tale of vanity, beauty, and morality, written by one of the most iconic queer voices in literary history (available to watch on Amazon Prime).
Available online from Hallam's Library Gateway.
The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta
A powerful coming-of-age novel-in-verse about a mixed-race gay teen discovering drag and self-expression.
Available at Adsett's Library.City Campus.
This Book is Gay by Juno Dawson
An accessible and witty LGBTQ+ guide for young people, covering everything from coming out to relationships.
Available at Adsett's Library.City Campus.
Watch
It's a Sin (2021
A gut-wrenching yet joyful portrayal of young queer life in 1980s London during the HIV/AIDS crisis.
Watch free online at Channel 4 On Demand.
Fire Island (2022)
A smart, funny reimagining of Pride and Prejudice through a queer lens, set on a legendary gay holiday island.
Watch online on Disney+.
Moonlight (2016)
A visually stunning, deeply moving film about Black queer identity and the search for connection.
Watch online on Amazon Prime.
Big Boys (2022)
A warm and hilarious coming-of-age comedy about grief, friendship, and embracing queerness at uni.
Watch free online at Channel 4 On Demand.
Pose (2018)
Celebrating trans and queer communities of colour, this show dives into 1980s/90s ballroom culture with heart and defiance.
Watch online on Disney+.
Pride (2014)
A true story of LGBTQ+ activists supporting striking miners in 1980s Britain. A joyful film about solidarity.
Watch online on Amazon Prime.
The Imitation Game (2014)
A dramatisation of Alan Turing’s genius and persecution, both a tribute and a tragedy.
Watch online on Netflix.
The Danish Girl (2015)
A moving portrayal of Lili Elbe, one of the first people to undergo gender-affirming surgery, and the courage it takes to live authentically.
Watch online on Amazon Prime.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
A cult classic musical that celebrates gender nonconformity, queerness, and camp in all its glory.
Watch online on Disney+.
Everyone's Talking about Jamie (2021)
A feel-good musical about a Sheffield teen who dreams of becoming a drag queen, tackling themes of self-expression, acceptance, and overcoming prejudice.
Watch online on Amazon Prime.
Listen
The Gossip Gays
Outrageously funny and refreshingly honest chats on queer life, pop culture, and everything in between.
Listen to The Gossip Gays on Spotify.
QueerAF
Stories from emerging LGBTQ+ audio creators across the UK, spotlighting real voices and lived experiences.
Listen to QueerAF on Spotify.
The Log Books
Unearth stories from LGBTQ+ life in Britain through real entries from the Switchboard helpline archives, bringing unheard voices from the 70s to early 2000s to light.
Listen to The Log Books on Spotify.
LGBTQ&A
Powerful interviews with LGBTQ+ trailblazers, activists, and creatives, sharing honest conversations about identity, struggles, and achievements.
Listen to LGBTQ&A on Spotify.
Bad Gays
A podcast about evil and complicated queer figures from history, asking what we can learn from the "bad" gays of the past.
Listen to Bad Gays on Spotify.
Bisexual Brunch
Candid chats and laughs about bi life, love, and politics, hosted by three bisexual voices challenging myths and celebrating identity.
Listen to Bisexual Brunch on Spotify.
Food 4 Thot
A playful, thought-provoking show where queer writers dish on sex, relationships, pop culture, and identity (with zero filter!)
Listen to Food 4 Thot on Spotify.
History is Gay
Diving into the hidden or forgotten queer stories from history, this podcast proves LGBTQ+ people have always been part of the narrative.
Listen to History is Gay on Spotify.
Still Processing
Hosted by two Black queer culture writers from the New York Times, this show explores identity, art, and politics with heart, depth, and humour.
Listen to Still Processing on Spotify.
Call Me Mother
Hosted by writer Shon Faye, this podcast celebrates the LGBTQ+ elders and pioneers who paved the way, sharing their extraordinary lives and legacies.
Listen to Call Me Mother on Spotify.
Support and resources
Navigating university life as an LGBTQ+ student can come with unique questions and challenges — from finding inclusive healthcare to understanding your rights. These resources are here to support you at every step. Whether you're looking for mental health services, financial advice, or community connections, you'll find clear, practical guidance to help you thrive at Hallam.
Funding and Tuition
Find out about financial support available to LGBTQ+ students, including scholarships, bursaries, and emergency hardship funds.
Read more
Sexual Health Sheffield
Access inclusive, confidential sexual health services, including STI testing, contraception, HPV vaccinations, and expert advice tailored for LGBTQ+ needs. PrEP and PEP are also available to help prevent HIV, speak to a professional to find out what’s right for you.
Read more
Mental Health Support
Support is available for your mental wellbeing, whether you need counselling, peer support, or someone to talk to who understands LGBTQ+ experiences. Help is also available for issues like chemsex, drug use, and alcohol abuse, without judgment and in confidence.
Read more
Students and Sex Work
If you're engaging in sex work, you’re not alone - many students do to manage financial pressures. You can access confidential support, guidance, and resources to stay safe and make informed choices. Your safety always comes first.
Download the Student Safety Toolkit
Gender Identity Clinic
If you're exploring your gender identity, specialist support is available through the Sheffield Gender Identity Clinic. They offer confidential advice, assessments, and referrals for gender-affirming care, helping you take the next steps at your own pace.
Read more
Legal Support and Rights
Get advice on your rights as an LGBTQ+ student, including help with discrimination issues, name and gender marker changes, housing rights, and more.
Read more
Pronouns and Inclusive Language
Learn about the importance of pronouns and inclusive language, and how we can create a respectful environment where everyone's identity is recognised and respected.
Read more
Report and Support
If you experience bullying, harassment, hate crime, or discrimination, find out how to report it safely and get the support you need.
Read more