Stonewall Report Highlights Growing Concerns About LGBTQ+ Equality in the UK

Stonewall has published LGBTQ+ Life in the UK: 2026, its first major report on LGBTQ+ experiences in almost a decade, offering an updated picture of equality, acceptance and the challenges facing LGBTQ+ communities.

The report brings together responses from almost 3,500 lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans+ and queer people, exploring their experiences across political, social and cultural settings. Its six chapters cover equality, belonging, safety, health, work and future; highlighting changes over the years since Stonewall's previous major report in 2018.

The findings reveal a mixed picture of progress and concern. While 48% of respondents believe acceptance of LGBTQ+ people has improved over the past ten years, 50% are pessimistic about the future of equality in the UK. Among trans+ respondents, this figure rises to 80%.

The research also highlights ongoing concerns around safety and everyday experiences. Fewer than half of LGBTQ+ people said they would feel comfortable holding their partner's hand in public, while one in four avoid certain bars or restaurants because they do not feel safe.

Other findings show that 45% of trans+ people experienced harassment, intimidation or assault in the previous year, while 55% of LGBTQ+ respondents lack confidence in being financially secure during retirement.

Stonewall says the findings demonstrate that, despite progress in recent decades, significant challenges remain. The organisation is calling for renewed action to tackle discrimination, improve inclusion and strengthen protections for LGBTQ+ people across the UK.

The full report, LGBTQ+ Life in the UK: 2026, is available to read through Stonewall's website.

Read the full report: Stonewall – LGBTQ+ Life in the UK: 2026