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Let’s make LGBT+ History Month 2026 a time for learning, allyship and progress

This February, we’re recognising the impact of LGBT+ communities in the UK, and highlighting how education can create safer workplaces, stronger communities, and better understanding for all.

If you’re ready to build practical knowledge while you learn, explore our government-funded Equality & Diversity or Mental Health courses available to eligible adults across England.

LGBT+ History Month 2026

What is LGBT+ History Month UK?

LGBT+ History Month takes place every February in the UK. It’s a time to celebrate the lives, achievements and contributions of the LGBT+ community, those past and present.

But it’s also about visibility, education and challenging discrimination.

The month was founded in 2005 to coincide with the repeal of Section 28, legislation that previously prohibited the “promotion” of homosexuality in schools. Since then, it has grown into a nationwide moment for reflection, celebration and learning.

Across schools, workplaces and communities, people come together to:

  • Recognise LGBT+ role models
  • Raise awareness of inequality
  • Promote inclusion and understanding
  • Encourage allyship

Education has always been at the heart of the movement.

Why is it important to celebrate LGBT+ History Month in the UK?

Despite progress, many LGBT+ individuals still face discrimination in education, healthcare and the workplace.

LGBT+ History Month isn’t just about looking back, it’s about building safer, more inclusive environments today.

When organisations invest in awareness and training:

  • Staff feel safer being themselves
  • Teams work more effectively
  • Communities become more supportive
  • Harmful stereotypes are challenged

Awareness helps to create change.

How to get involved?

1. Educate yourself

Take time to learn about LGBT+ history in the UK and globally. Understanding the struggles and milestones helps build empathy and awareness.

2. Amplify LGBT+ voices

Share stories, listen to lived experiences, and highlight the contributions of LGBT+ individuals in your workplace or community. Representation matters.

3. Support inclusive workplaces

Encourage conversations around inclusive policies and culture.

If you work in education, healthcare, social care or community roles, training in equality and safeguarding can help create safer environments for everyone.

4. Reflect and take action

Ask:

  • Are all voices being heard?
  • Do our policies support inclusion?
  • What can we improve?

Small changes lead to lasting impact.

LGBT+ History Month & Pride Month

LGBT+ History Month, which takes place in February, focuses on education, awareness and historical recognition in the UK.

Pride Month, which happens in June, celebrates identity, visibility and equality worldwide.

Both are important; however, LGBT+ History Month places particular emphasis on learning from the past to shape a more inclusive future.

Education builds safer communities

At Free Courses in England, we believe access to education should be inclusive and accessible to everyone.

Our funded online courses help individuals and organisations build knowledge in:

Whether you’re looking to grow professionally or create a more inclusive workplace, learning is a powerful place to start.

Summary & next steps

LGBT+ History Month is a time to reflect, learn and take action.

Understanding the history behind equality movements helps create safer workplaces, stronger communities and more inclusive learning environments.

To continue building knowledge and understanding, you could:

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