Stonewall warn of LGBT young people ‘shut out’ of higher education and work

A new report by lesbian, gay, bi and trans equality charity Stonewall and BritainThinks –Shut Out –reveals stark findings for LGBT young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET).

The research shows that anti-LGBT bullying, lack of support at home or visible role models can have a devastating impact on LGBT young people’s mental health, and lead many to being ‘shut out’ of higher education and work. The report finds that once out of school and employment, LGBT young people are slipping through the gaps and face significant obstacles to re-entering education and work.

Key findings show why these young people left education, training and employment, including:

  • Experiences of familial rejection after coming out as LGBT
  • Isolation at school and college due to anti-LGBT bullying and a lack of LGBT-specific support
  • Negative experiences in the workplace, including anti-LGBT harassment

The report goes on to show that once out of education and employment, mental health struggles and difficulties accessing opportunities continue to hold LGBT young people back and prevent them from reaching their full potential.

To see the full report and additional commentary from Stonewall and BritainThinks, click here.