A new survey by LGBT HERO, the national LGBTQ+ health and wellbeing charity, has revealed that more than one in five LGBTQ+ people have been sexually assaulted in a club, bar, or LGBTQ+ venue.
“LGBTQ+ spaces should be places of safety, but sexual assault and harassment are happening where we should feel protected,” said Ian Howley, CEO of LGBT HERO. “We have an opportunity to change this together.”
The survey, which was conducted through social media advertising and hosted on the LGBT HERO website for the month of January 2025, found that:
61% have been touched sexually or intimately without consent in a social setting
21% have been sexually assaulted in an LGBTQ+ venue
74% told someone about their assault—but only 19% reported it to the police
44% were assaulted by a stranger, but 31% said their perpetrator was a friend
LGBT HERO is calling on LGBTQ+ venues to take action:
Implement zero-tolerance policies on sexual harassment and assault
Ensure mandatory consent training for all venue staff
Create visible reporting systems to support survivors
Encourage community accountability to challenge harmful behaviour
“We all have a responsibility to create an environment where consent is respected and survivors feel supported,” Howley adds. “Change isn’t just about awareness, it’s about action. That’s why we’re ready to work with LGBTQ+ venues, organisations, and community groups to create safer, more welcoming spaces for everyone.
“Our experience running the Lambeth Allies Programme in partnership with Lambeth Council has shown us that real change is possible when we come together to educate, train, and empower people to challenge unacceptable behaviour.”
LGBT HERO is launching a new Sexual Assault and Consent campaign and support hub, which includes awareness posters in LGBTQ+ venues, shareable videos on social media, and a three-part podcast series discussing key issues.
The full report, Sexual Assault and Consent in the LGBTQ+ Community, can be read on the LGBT HERO’s website.
