Jonathan Bailey ‘so proud’ to support UK-wide LGBTQ+ inclusion in schools: 'It would have made such a difference’

Actor Jonathan Bailey has said he is “proud” to support School Diversity Week, the UK-wide celebration of LGBTQ+ equality in schools, organised by LGBTQ+ young people's charity Just Like Us. 

School Diversity Week, the UK-wide celebration of LGBTQ+ equality, takes place every June in schools across the UK.

From 23 - 27 June 2025, schools across the UK will be getting involved in a range of activities from fundraisers like Rainbow Friday dress-up days, to LGBTQ+ inclusive lessons and activities, to assemblies and school talks from Just Like Us.

Jonathan Bailey said: “School Diversity Week is an incredible initiative that creates the inclusive environment every young person deserves. 

"Growing up, I would have loved to see LGBTQ+ inclusion celebrated in schools - it would have made such a difference in feeling seen, supported, and accepted. 

“This week gives pupils the chance to learn, have fun, and embrace diversity, helping to build a future where all young people can be themselves without fear. I’m so proud to support Just Like Us in making that a reality.”

Independent research has found a link between positive messaging about being LGBTQ+ in schools and pupils having better mental health, regardless of whether the pupils are LGBTQ+ or not.

After celebrating School Diversity Week, 72% of school staff agreed that pupil wellbeing had improved, and 85% said they felt better able to support LGBTQ+ pupils and families.

Bailey, who became a patron of Just Like Us in 2023, said at the time: “I am immensely proud to be in a position to support Just Like Us and increase the volume and awareness of what they’re setting out to achieve, which I think is incredibly important. Children deserve the right to feel acknowledged and supported in who they are at such a vital time in their lives."

Since then, he has supported the Just Like Us charity awards, met with Just Like Us’ volunteer ambassadors, spoken up for trans young people, and even raised £30,000 for the charity in under 24 hours, winning him Celebrity Fundraiser of the Year at the 2024 JustGiving Awards. 

Laura Mackay, Chief Executive of Just Like Us, said: “School Diversity Week is an opportunity for school communities to come together and celebrate the differences that make us all special. LGBTQ+ young people still face significant barriers at school, at home and in the wider world, but each school that celebrates and prioritises LGBTQ+ inclusion shows them that they are valued, seen and safe.

“We are so grateful to our patron Jonathan Bailey for taking such a strong stance on supporting LGBTQ+ young people and improving inclusion in schools, and also to every educator who is making sure that pupils have a supportive environment in which to learn, both during School Diversity Week and all year round.”