The time for change is now: We’re championing LGBTQ+ safety at the Labour Party Conference

During party conference season, we’re gearing up to ensure that LGBTQ+ rights are firmly on the agenda of MPs and policymakers. Party conferences are a good opportunity for Stonewall and others to connect with the politicians and policy makers and raise awareness of the issues our communities are facing, as well as the solutions we need.  

At Stonewall, we’re proud to be increasing the visibility of LGBTQ+ issues at this year’s Labour Party Conference, particularly as they have just assumed office. These events are an important opportunity to engage in conversation, build alliances and discuss policy intentions and  future legislation.  

This year, the new Government's conference comes as Stonewall has welcomed a new CEO, Simon Blake OBE, who will be taking the organization forward in its pursuit of equality. Attending and participating in forums, such as political conferences, are important to build relationships with MPs and policymakers in our new Government, as well as connecting with other sector representatives and advocates.  

We know that communities are feeling exhausted – but when we work together to support one another and build bridges with policymakers, we can achieve tangible change. At Stonewall we are proud to have been at the forefront of change through important campaigns which have only been successful thanks to the support of political leaders and representatives. We’ve been a part of movements to abolish Section 28, to secure the right for same-sex couples to have civil partnerships, marry, and adopt children, and to make LGBTQ+ inclusive teaching part of the national curriculum. Our role is to work with and advocate on behalf of communities, and it is integral that we are part of the conversation to do so. 

The UK has fallen behind for LGBTQ+ rights 

Our participation in this year’s conference is against a worrying backdrop. The UK was once number one in Europe for LGBTQ+ rights in the ILGA Europe Rainbow Map. But in 2024, we’ve dropped to 16th place. This is extremely disappointing - we used to lead the way, and now we’re falling behind.  

LGBTQ+ people deserve better, and the time to act is now. With a new Government taking a different approach, our ongoing fight for equality has entered a new phase. The possibility of progress looms large and we're ready to have the conversations, build the partnerships and create an environment with those from across the political parties to enable progress LGBTQ+ people. As charities, we can only do so much on our own – the real change comes when we work together with others.  

What we’re discussing this year  

In the past few years, it’s become clear that progress for the LGBTQ+ community has stalled. Many LGBTQ+ people don’t feel safe living their daily lives and divisive rhetoric has dominated conversations and policy making.  

Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to focus the attention of those newly in power and work together on the policy changes we believe will transform lives.  

Stonewall’s latest research shows that less than half of LGBTQ+ people feel safe holding their partner’s hand in public. This shocking reality, on top of the fact that hate crimes on the basis of sexual orientation in England and Wales are up by 112% in the last five years and hate crimes on the basis of trans identity by 186% in the same period – shows that we urgently need action to tackle the rising hate.  

So, what are we asking the Government to do?  

- Make anti-LGBTQ+ hate crime an Aggravated Offence, so LGBTQ+ people have the same protections as people who face hate crime due to racism or religious discrimination - in line with the Law Commission’s recommendations.  

- Implement a Hate Crime Strategy and Action Plan that tackles barriers to LGBTQ+ reporting.   

How you can help  

We’re not the only ones who can engage with MPs on this – you can too.  

We need MPs to challenge the UK Government to do better and protect LGBTQ+ people. We all deserve to feel safe – at work, in our communities and in public.  

Speak out against the rising hate and email your MP today – we’ve created a template for you, and it only takes a few minutes.  

Together, we can make sure we live in a society where we’re all free to be ourselves.