LGBT+

At a glance

Compared to other groups, data on the physical activity levels of the lesbian, gay, bisuexual and transgender (LGBT+) community - and the sport they play - is less well established. As a result, relatively little has been done to address engagement of these communities.

Research informing action

We commissioned Pride Sports to do a 10-week study examining the levels of participation of LGBT+ people in sport. The Sport, Physical Activity and LGBT+ report is the first step of many in our journey to engaging more LGBT+ people to take part in sport and physical activity.

Based on the findings from the report, we’re developing key actions designed to help encourage more people to get active.

Our strategy – Uniting the Movement

Uniting the Movement, our 10-year strategy launched in 2021, is our plan to make being physically active a normal part of life for everyone in England – to make it easier for all of us as we go about our everyday lives.

Getting LGBT+ people more involved in sport and activity is an important part of this plan.

We’re working to ensure LGBT+ people are given as many opportunities and as much support to get active as people with other protected characteristics.

Learn more about our Uniting the Movement strategy

Research

Sport, Physical Activity and LGBT+ Report

We commissioned Pride Sports to do a 10-week study examining the participation levels of lesbian, LGBT+ people in sport.

The Sport, Physical Activity and LGBT+ report looks at existing research into issues affecting take up, as well as the impact of current projects that are successfully delivering more opportunities for LGBT+ people.

The study focuses on:

Initiatives aimed at improving participation
Volunteering
Spectating.

The study also considers how projects that have successfully engaged LGBT+ people are working to reduce physical inactivity.

Based on the findings from the report, we’re developing key actions designed to help encourage more LGBT+ to get active.

In the meantime, if you'd like to contribute to discussions or if you have a question, contact our Senior Equality and Diversity Manager Jamie Hooper.

Pride Sport: Sport, physical activity and lgbt report 2016

Download the file - 3.46 MB

Getting LGBT+ people active

A Literature Review of Sexual Orientation in Sport

Social attitudes and lack of information have hampered policies to ensure an inclusive approach to LGBT people in sport, according to a 2008 literature review commissioned by us and the other UK sports councils.

As a result, some LGBT+ people have given up sport, or hidden their sexuality and gender identity.

The report recommended:

Practical guidance for clubs and other bodies on inclusive support for LGBT+ people
Prepare advice sheets on how to provide for transgender people in different sports
Leadership training about sexual orientation and gender identity equality for all key public officials working in sport.

To read a summary of the report or download it in full, click on the relevant link below.

Research informing actions

Based on the findings from the Sport, Physical Activity and LGBT+ report, we’re developing key actions designed to help encourage people to get LGBT+ people active.