Return to Employability and Skills

LGBTQ+

Whether you need advice, representation, or simply a space to be yourself, we’ve got your back.
Colourful mural celebrating LGBTQ+ pride with diverse characters, a "Love is Love" message, and a pride flag background.

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

  • 1967

    The Sexual Offences Act (UK)

    Decriminalised consensual homosexual acts in private between two men aged 21 and over in England and Wales.

  • 1969

    Stonewall Riots (USA)

    A pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history. The protests in New York City sparked the global Pride movement.

  • 1972

    First UK Pride March

    Held in London, inspired by the Stonewall movement, with around 2,000 people marching.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 1992

    World Health Organization Declassifies Homosexuality as a Mental Illness

    A key moment in challenging stigma on a global scale.

  • 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.

  • 2000

    Ban Lifted on LGBTQ+ People Serving in the British Armed Forces

    A major step toward equality and inclusion in public service.

  • 2003

    Repeal of Section 28 (UK)

    A long-awaited victory for activists and educators. Marked a turning point for LGBTQ+ rights in schools.

  • 2004

    Gender Recognition Act (UK)

    Gave trans people the legal right to change their gender and gain a new birth certificate.

  • 2010

    Equality Act (UK)

    Protected people from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in workplaces, education, and services.

  • 2013

    Same-Sex Marriage Legalised in England & Wales

    Scotland followed in 2014 and Northern Ireland in 2020. A defining moment for love and equality.

  • 2020

    Ban on LGBTQ+ Conversion Therapy Debated

    Campaigns grow stronger in pushing for a full legal ban in the UK. Still ongoing today.

  • 2021

    First Openly Trans MP in UK Parliament

    Jamie Wallis comes out as transgender, becoming the UK’s first MP to do so.

  • 2023

    First Non-Binary Mayor in the UK

    Owen Hurcum, elected in Wales, represents growing visibility for non-binary people in politics.


Gender-neutral facilities: what's changing

In April, the UK Supreme Court ruled that the terms "woman" and "sex" in the Equality Act refer to biological sex. Following this, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) issued guidance indicating that businesses failing to provide single-sex lavatories may be committing "indirect discrimination" against women. ​

This has led to changes in building regulations, requiring new non-residential buildings to include separate male and female toilets, with optional self-contained unisex facilities where space allows.

These developments have sparked discussions about balancing privacy, safety, and inclusivity in public spaces. Some advocacy groups support the changes for safeguarding women's privacy, while others express concern over potential discrimination against transgender individuals.

At Hallam Students' Union, we remain committed to inclusivity and are reviewing our facilities to ensure they meet the needs of all students.​

City Campus

  • The trans community are supported in using the facilities that best reflect their gender expression. Many of the City Campus buildings have a mix of gendered and gender-neutral toilet facilities and plans for new buildings and significant refurbishments include a combination of female, male, accessible and gender-neutral facilities.

 

Need to talk or want support?

Connect with services and organisations across the UK for information and guidance surounding this:


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.


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.

 

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.

Black, queer, revolutionary

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

Period product subscription scheme

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

Anti-drink spiking

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

Consent education

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


Inspirational figures

From Sheffield icons to global changemakers, these stories remind us why representation and resilience matter. 


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, and advice tailored for LGBTQ+ needs.

Read more

Mental Health Support

Support is available for your mental wellbeing, whether you need counselling, peer support, or just someone to talk to who understands LGBTQ+ experiences.

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