Student life can be stressful and challenging at times and LBGTQ+ students often have additional concerns related to worries about coming out, their mental health, or reconciling their sexuality with their identity and / or gender. Our teams are here to provide support and advice and there is an active SU society and collective for peer support and social activities.
LGBTQ+ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (or Questioning), with the “+” including other sexual and gender identities such as Intersex, Asexual, Non-binary, and Pansexual. This acronym represents a diverse community of individuals, each with unique identities and experiences. Understanding these terms can help foster a more inclusive environment and support your journey at Royal Holloway.
Your Rights Under the Equality Act (2010)
The Equality Act (2010) protects you against discrimination based on characteristics like sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender reassignment, among others. This law ensures that universities and employers cannot treat you unfairly. You have the right to disclose personal information only if you choose, and you can highlight your involvement in LGBTQ+ activities without revealing your sexual identity.
For more detailed information, visit the UK Government’s Equality Act 2010 webpages, further information on your rights, what areas are covered by the act and what action you can take if you feel you have been unfairly discriminated against.
Coming Out as LGBTQ+ at University
Starting a conversation about coming out can be challenging, but it can also be incredibly empowering. If you're considering coming out, here are some tips on starting the conversation:
Choose the Right Moment: Find a quiet and private place where you can speak openly, and make sure you have enough time to talk without feeling rushed.
Consider Who to Tell First: Think carefully about who might be the most understanding and supportive. Starting with someone you trust can make the process easier.
Take Your Time: There’s no right or wrong way to come out. Do it at your own pace and in a way that feels comfortable for you.
Gender Transitioning
Transitioning can be a complex journey, and it's important to know where to seek support. Here are some tips:
Know What to Expect: Transitioning can bring up a range of emotions. Speaking with your GP or a health professional can help you understand what to expect and find local support services.
Prepare for Waiting Times: Waiting periods for transitioning services can be long. During this time, consider seeking additional support, such as speaking to a Counsellor or joining LGBTQ+ support groups.
Prioritise Your Wellbeing: Taking care of your mental health is crucial. Make time for activities that you enjoy and consider scheduling dedicated time for self-care. Speak with our Wellbeing Support team for advice on optimising your wellbeing during this time.
Get Involved
Employment and LGBTQ+ Inclusion
At Royal Holloway, we take pride in supporting your career aspirations through an inclusive lens. Here’s how we help LGBTQ+ students navigate the job market:
Diversity Careers Fair
We host an annual Diversity Careers Fair, attended by organisations with strong diversity recruitment practices and a positive culture of inclusion.
LGBTQ+ Positive Employers
Many graduate employers recognise the value of a diverse workforce. Use employer websites to learn about their initiatives and support for LGBTQ+ staff. Stonewall’s Workplace Equality Index can help you identify LGBTQ+ friendly employers.
Global Considerations
If you're considering working abroad, it's essential to research the legal situation regarding LGBTQ+ rights in your chosen country. Our Careers Advisers are available to discuss your specific circumstances.
Useful Information
Here’s a list of resources to support your experience at Royal Holloway:
- Gender Neutral facilities: Find gender-neutral toilets and other important locations via our online campus map
- Changing Personal Information: For information on changing your name/personal details on your university record or using a preferred name reading the following advice from the Student Services Centre.
- LGBTQ+ learning on campus: Our library has a range of resources by LGBT authors and on LGBT history and topics which are available for students to use, the following reading list provides a wide selection
Support contacts
Wellbeing Support: Contact a Wellbeing Adviser for support with any wellbeing issues during your time at university.
Counselling and Mental Health: Arrange an appointment with our Counselling or Mental Health team for emotional support
Students' Union Advice Centre: The Students' Union Advice Centre offers free, confidential advice on a wide range of issues, including academic, financial, and personal matters
Peer Support
LGBT+: RHSU Student Community - A safe and welcoming space to have open conversations and meet other students.
Student Pride: Annual, national events for LGBTQ+ students across the country
Resources
Anxiety & isolation as an LGBT+ student: an article by Student Minds
Stonewall: Campaign group supporting the LGBTQ+ community
LGBTjobs.co.uk: jobs board for LGBTQ+ positive employers
Switchboard LGBT+ - helpline: provide an information, support and referral service for lesbians, gay men, and bisexual and trans people – and anyone considering issues around their sexuality and/or gender identity.
Mind Out: online one on one support for LGBTQI+ people who are experiencing mental health difficulties, run by MIND.