Although EveryYouth celebrates and supports diversity, identity and the LGBTQ+ community all year round, Pride Month is a moment to honour the history and achievements of those who have fought, and continue to fight, for equality and acceptance.  

Pride is celebrated in June because that’s when the Stonewall riots took place – significant protests that changed gay rights for a lot of people in the US and globally. 

Our Network of Delivery Partners is proud to support LGBTQ+ young people experiencing homelessness. Together, we’re working towards a future where every young person feels safe, valued, and supported. 

The History of Pride in the UK   

The journey toward LGBTQ+ equality in the UK hasn’t been easy. In the 1950s and 60s, homosexuality was criminalised and queer people faced discrimination and prejudice. Brave activists and organisations began challenging the status quo and advocated for change.  

The Wolfenden Report (1957) marked a turning point by recommending the decriminalisation of homosexuality between consenting adults in private. This helped spark public conversations and laid the groundwork for change.  

In 1972, the UK saw its very first Pride march, a powerful moment of visibility and solidarity for the LGBTQ+ community. More than 50 years later, Pride remains both a celebration and a call to action.  

But challenges remain. Almost one in five LGBT people (18 per cent) have experienced homelessness at some point in their lives, Stonewall research shows. While progress has been made, this statistic reminds us just how important it is to keep pushing for full equality and diversity.  

LGBTQ+ Young people and homelessness 

Since 2022, EveryYouth has supported 545 young LGBTQ+ people. Young LGBTQ+ people are four times more likely to experience homelessness than their peers, according to research carried out by our Delivery Partner, Llamau. They can be forced to leave home due to rejection, abuse, or lack of understanding from family or services.  

Research by akt found that 59% of LGBTQ+ young people facing homelessness experience discrimination or harassment when seeking help. That’s why it’s so important to create a safe and inclusive space where queer young people can access support without fear or judgement.  

How You Can Help  

EveryYouth is committed to listening to the voices of LGBTQ+ young people and acting on what we hear.

Here are a few ways you can join us in supporting our mission:  

• Be an ally – Learn about the challenges LGBTQ+ young people face. Use inclusive language, challenge discrimination safely when you see it, and celebrate Pride as a show of solidarity.  

• Get involved in your community – Attend a local Pride march or event. These are not just celebrations, but opportunities to show that LGBTQ+ people belong and matter.  

• Fundraise with Pride – Host your own Pride-themed fundraiser to raise awareness and vital funds. Some ideas include:
  • Equalitea Party – Host a tea and cake sale
  • Quiz It Up – Organise a trivia night with friends or colleagues
  • Strut Your Stuff – Try a fun fashion show or colourful costume catwalk.  

• Donate to EveryYouth – Your support helps us provide housing, employment opportunities and mental health services to LGBTQ+ young people across the UK. Every donation makes a difference.  

• Spread the word – Share this blog using #EveryYouthProud to raise awareness and celebrate diversity and equality.  

Supportive Resources for LGBTQ+ Young People 

If you or someone you know needs help, these organisations offer tailored support, advice and safe spaces for queer young people:

AKT  

The Mix  

LGBT Foundation  

London Friend 

Gendered Intelligence  

Our Network of Delivery Partners