06th February 2026
UK LGBT+ History Month 2026 – Celebrating 22 Years of Visibility, Learning and Pride
UK LGBT+ History Month 2026 marks the 22nd annual celebration of LGBT+ lives, culture and history.
First established in 2005 following the repeal of Section 28, the month continues to play a vital role in highlighting the stories, achievements, and contributions of LGBT+ people across the UK.
Section 28, introduced in 1988, prohibited local authorities and schools from “promoting homosexuality” or teaching “the acceptability of homosexuality as a pretended family relationship”.
Its impact was profound: generations of young people grew up without representation, teachers felt unable to support LGBT+ students, and stigma was reinforced across education and community settings.
Its repeal in 2003 paved the way for a more open, inclusive and supportive approach to LGBT+ inclusion in schools, sport and wider society.
Two decades on, LGBT+ History Month continues to champion the importance of safe, inclusive learning environments where LGBT+ people are seen, valued and supported.
It encourages organisations, educators and communities to reflect on the past while taking meaningful action to create a more equitable future.
Listening to LGBTQIA+ voices across the South East
As part of this year’s celebrations, Active Partnerships across the South East region have been connecting with LGBTQIA+ communities to listen, learn and understand their experiences in sport and physical activity.
Through conversations, listening sessions and community outreach, people have shared their reflections on belonging, visibility, barriers to participation and what truly inclusive environments look and feel like.
These insights are helping shape future programmes, training and support so that everyone, regardless of identity, can enjoy safe, welcoming and empowering spaces to be active.
This work reinforces a simple truth: inclusion is not a one‑off initiative. It’s an ongoing commitment to understanding lived experiences, challenging assumptions and ensuring that every individual feels respected and represented.
Creating environments where everyone can thrive
LGBT+ History Month is a reminder that progress happens when organisations listen deeply, act intentionally and work collaboratively.
Whether in schools, clubs, community groups or workplaces, inclusive environments don’t happen by accident – they are built through empathy, education and shared responsibility.
If you’re looking to strengthen inclusion within your sport or physical activity setting, support is available.
