London, Brighton, and Cambridge emerged as the top three
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY COLM HOWARD-LLOYD
As LGBT+ History Month takes centre stage, a recent study by University Compare has spotlighted the most LGBTQIA friendly cities for students in the UK. London, Brighton, and Cambridge emerged as the top three, showcasing their commitment to inclusivity and support for the LGBTQIA community.
London, Brighton, Cardiff, Liverpool, and Manchester claimed the lead in LGBTQIA nightlife, while Cambridge boasted the highest number of residents interested in LGBTQIA social groups, followed closely by London and Stoke-on-Trent.
Telford and Leeds were ranked the highest in terms of the inclusivity of mental health services. Brighton, London, and Manchester all dominated in online search interest for Pride events, underscoring the enthusiasm and engagement within these cities for LGBTQIA celebrations.
According to the study, London secured the top spot as the most LGBTQIA friendly city in the UK for students. Notably, it boasted the lowest incidence of recorded LGBTQIA hate crimes per 1000 people, scoring 0.44. London’s vibrant nightlife, with an impressive rating of 4.05/5, and the high search interest in its annual Pride event further solidified its position.
However, London fell short in mental health services inclusivity, with residents ranking their local NHS mental health service 7.77/10, placing it sixth lowest in the study.
Brighton, the renowned LGBTQIA hub, secured the second spot. With the highest nightlife score and the most searched-for Pride event, Brighton proudly claimed its place as a welcoming city for LGBTQIA students. Despite a slightly lower safety ranking, the city’s substantial LGBTQIA population reflects its longstanding reputation as a queer haven.
Surprisingly, the smaller city of Cambridge emerged as the third most LGBTQIA friendly for students. Boasting one of the largest LGBTQIA populations, a thriving interest in social groups, and a solid safety record, Cambridge proved that size is not a barrier to inclusivity.
Allison Montgomery, Communications Manager at Switchboard, said: “73% of contacts to Switchboard come from outside of London, so we know that there are LGBTQIA people all across the UK who need support and someone to speak to. We desire to see a society where no one in the LGBTQIA community feels alone, but until every city provides a safe haven for students they can reach out to Switchboard, the national LGBTQIA support line.”
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