Why does it matter?

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) young people are three times more likely to attempt suicide. Two thirds of them suffer bullying at school. They often don't have an adult to talk to at home or at school. We all know bullied students can't focus on learning and achievement.

But it's not just LGB and T young people. Straight students are terrified of being called 'gay'. Girls drop out of sport and boys hide artistic talent to conform to gender roles and avoid being labelled gay or lesbian.

And what about the young people who have LGB or T family members? Do they feel safe talking about their loved ones openly?

This issue affects ALL young people. Someone needs to talk to them about diversity; it's a difficult topic. We accept this challenge.

How we help

LGB and T young people must have equal learning opportunities. Diversity Role Models works to prevent sexuality/gender based bullying in schools by educating all students about diversity. We use positive role models - gay, straight and transgender - to help LGB and T students feel confident and to ensure their straight classmates understand, accept and welcome the differences they notice in others.

We are a charity that puts role models in front of young people to talk about acceptance and respect for diversity. These role models may be LGB or T themselves, or they may be straight allies, who often send an even more powerful message.

Testimonials

What people are saying about Diversity Role Models!

It was really interesting to actually meet a gay person and be allowed to ask questions about being gay as it's not something we had experienced before.  I think some people in the class who are a bit ignorant realised gay people can be pretty normal too!

Our partners

We're truly grateful for the on-going support we receive from our partners, friends and sponsors. They help us by raising awareness of our work, sharing best practice and by directly funding workshops for schools. We'd like to thank them and acknowledge their contribution: