University of Brighton named UK’s most LGBTQ+ friendly university
– 2 min read
The University of Brighton has been named the most LGBTQ+ friendly university in the UK, according to a new national student survey. The institution scored 8.7 out of 10 for inclusivity - the highest rating among 79 universities surveyed.
The research, conducted by Erobella in partnership with Pollfish, gathered responses from 2,000 students aged 18–24. Participants were asked to rate how LGBTQ+ friendly they perceived their university to be. The national average score was 6.7, with Brighton the only university to achieve a score above 8.
Brighton is widely recognised as a hub for diversity and LGBTQ+ pride, and we’ve worked hard to ensure that spirit is reflected on campus
Julie Fryatt, Chief People Officer and LGBTQ+ Equity Champion at the University of Brighton, said the result reflects both the city’s reputation and the university’s efforts: “Brighton is widely recognised as a hub for diversity and LGBTQ+ pride, and we’ve worked hard to ensure that spirit is reflected on campus. Our Stonewall Gold Award and this student recognition show that equity here isn’t just a policy - it’s a lived experience.”
The university has introduced a range of initiatives to support inclusion, including LGBTQ+ and Trans Awareness training, staff-led Equity Network Groups, Active Bystander programmes, and guidance on inclusive language. Its Centre for Transforming Sexuality and Gender (CTSG) is internationally recognised for research into sexuality, gender and social change.
Brighton Students’ Union also plays a role in fostering community through its LGBTQ+ Society and mentoring programmes. Rosie Birch, a second-year Creative Writing student and Students’ Union Communities Officer, said “Brighton has always been a place where you can show up exactly as you are. I’m proud of our LGBTQ+ community and the allies who stand alongside us.”
The university’s commitment to equality extends beyond LGBTQ+ inclusion. Earlier this year, it received the Race Equality Charter Silver Award from Advance HE, making it one of only six UK universities to hold this recognition. Brighton also operates a zero-tolerance approach to harassment and discrimination through its #NeverOK pledge, supported by confidential reporting tools and trained advisors.
While the survey highlights Brighton’s strong performance, it also points to variation across the sector, with most universities scoring closer to the national average. Erobella’s findings suggest that while progress has been made, there is still work to do to ensure LGBTQ+ students feel equally supported across the UK.
