Stonewall warns of “critical moment” for LGBTQ+ rights in Annual Report 2024–25
Stonewall has issued a stark warning in its latest Annual Report, revealing that the UK is no longer the global leader in LGBTQ+ rights it once was. The charity’s financial position has deteriorated significantly, with income falling from £6.9 million in 2023–24 to £4.7 million in 2024–25. Expenditure outstripped income by more than £900,000, leaving reserves at just £92,000 compared to nearly £1 million the previous year. Government grants, corporate donations and diversity scheme revenues all declined sharply, forcing Stonewall to make difficult decisions, including staff redundancies.
The report highlights that these financial challenges come at a time of “significant turbulence” for LGBTQ+ communities, particularly trans and non-binary people who face growing hostility and barriers in healthcare, education and public life.
The UK used to be a world leader in LGBTQ+ rights. Sadly, that is no longer the case.
In a statement published on its website, Stonewall said: "As has been widely reported, the last few years have been extremely challenging for the charity sector, and many are feeling the impact of a tough economic climate. These challenges have been further compounded for the LGBTQ+ sector when many in the community are feeling increasingly under threat, and clear powerful advocacy and engagement is more necessary than ever.
"The UK used to be a world leader in LGBTQ+ rights. Sadly, that is no longer the case. Whilst as a community we continue to enjoy progress that must be celebrated, the UK and wider world is changing. Globally, the LGBTQ+ movement, along with a whole range of other social justice and human rights issues, is experiencing a period of significant turbulence, with rights and freedoms being contested – particularly for the trans and non-binary communities. There have been significant reductions, in the UK and around the world, in funding for the movement.
"Stonewall’s history of convening, collaborating and leading has enabled us to create deep lasting legal and cultural change over the past 35+ years and through our newly launched strategy we are determined to keep doing so until all LGBTQ+ people can live free from discrimination and prejudice.
"We are grateful for everyone who has donated to demonstrate their continued support for our work and our vision for the years ahead. If you can, please support our work or other LGBTQ+ charities as we continue pushing for progress for our diverse community."
Stonewall, formally established on 24 May 1989 as The Stonewall Lobby Group Ltd, was founded in direct response to the introduction of Section 28 - a 1988 law prohibiting the “promotion” of homosexuality in schools. The organisation was born from a meeting at actor Sir Ian McKellen’s London home and included founders such as Michael Cashman, Lisa Power and Duncan Campbell. Named after the 1969 Stonewall riots in New York, it adopted a professional lobbying approach to challenge discriminatory legislation.
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