'The UK welcomes international LGBT students and is a nation at the forefront of many equal opportunity campaigns.'
Discrimination based on someone's sexual orientation or gender is illegal in the UK. Many lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) students come to study in the United Kingdom each year on the understanding that their rights will be respected.
Community support
Many universities, colleges and schools have groups offering advice, friendship and support to LGBT international students. The National Union of Students (NUS) is another good source of advice, and campaigns strongly on LGBT issues. They also host an annual awards ceremony commending groups that provide excellent support to the LGBT community.
Outside of your institution you'll often find local groups offering opportunities to meet new people. These aren't just confined to major towns and cities: you'll often find smaller but equally friendly groups in rural locations. The internet (particularly social media sites) can be useful if you're struggling to find them.
LGBT events
University, college or school LGBT groups (and those in the wider community beyond your institution) frequently organise events where you can meet others. These might include club or film nights, visits to cafes or bars, or weekend excursions.
Larger organised events are often held in towns and cities. Places which are particularly LGBT-friendly include Soho in London and the area around Canal Street in Manchester. Brighton is another popular destination - its annual Pride festival attracts thousands of visitors every year.
You can find out more about the LGBT awards on the NUS site and more about making friends on the Education UK settling in page.
Community support
Many universities, colleges and schools have groups offering advice, friendship and support to LGBT international students. The National Union of Students (NUS) is another good source of advice, and campaigns strongly on LGBT issues. They also host an annual awards ceremony commending groups that provide excellent support to the LGBT community.
Outside of your institution you'll often find local groups offering opportunities to meet new people. These aren't just confined to major towns and cities: you'll often find smaller but equally friendly groups in rural locations. The internet (particularly social media sites) can be useful if you're struggling to find them.
LGBT events
University, college or school LGBT groups (and those in the wider community beyond your institution) frequently organise events where you can meet others. These might include club or film nights, visits to cafes or bars, or weekend excursions.
Larger organised events are often held in towns and cities. Places which are particularly LGBT-friendly include Soho in London and the area around Canal Street in Manchester. Brighton is another popular destination - its annual Pride festival attracts thousands of visitors every year.
You can find out more about the LGBT awards on the NUS site and more about making friends on the Education UK settling in page.
