Recent research conducted by LGBT Hero has highlighted significant concerns regarding the prevalence of sexual assault within LGBTQ+ venues across the UK. The findings indicate that approximately one in five LGBTQ+ people have experienced sexual assault in these spaces, raising alarm bells within the community. The report, stemming from a survey of 600 respondents, reveals that 21% of participants reported being sexually assaulted, and the figure escalates to 61% when considering those who have been subjected to non-consensual touching or intimate acts.
Breaking down the statistics further, the report shows that 44% of respondents identified the perpetrator as a stranger, while 31% indicated that the assault was committed by a friend. Alarmingly, only 19% of those who experienced assault chose to report the incident to the police, although 74% did communicate their experiences to someone.
This research forms part of a broader campaign initiated by LGBT Hero, which includes various initiatives aimed at raising awareness about the issue of sexual assault via social media advertisements, poster distributions in venues, and a three-part podcast series. The campaign calls on gay venues to adopt more stringent measures against sexual harassment and assault. It encourages these establishments to implement zero-tolerance policies, ensure that all staff members undergo consent training, and create visible reporting systems to foster accountability within the community and challenge harmful behaviours.
Ian Howley, the CEO of LGBT Hero, emphasised the importance of safety in LGBTQ+ spaces, stating, “LGBTQ+ spaces should be places of safety, but sexual assault and harassment are happening where we should feel protected. We have an opportunity to change this together. We all have a responsibility to create an environment where consent is respected and survivors feel supported. Change isn’t just about awareness, it’s about action.”
In addition to its awareness campaign, LGBT Hero has developed a support directory specifically for sexual assault and consent, providing essential resources for those seeking assistance.
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.lgbthero.org.uk/press-release-sac – This URL supports the claim that LGBT Hero is calling for LGBTQ+ venues to implement zero-tolerance policies on sexual harassment and assault. It highlights their efforts to address the issue through various initiatives.
- https://www.thepinknews.com/2025/02/12/more-than-one-in-five-queer-people-have-been-sexually-assaulted-in-lgbtq-venues-survey-reveals/ – This article corroborates the statistic that one in five LGBTQ+ individuals have been sexually assaulted in LGBTQ+ venues, aligning with LGBT Hero’s findings.
- https://mygwork.com/en/news/20-of-lgbtq-people-have-been-sexually-assaulted-in-a-club-bar-or-lgbtq-venue-new-study-finds – This news piece supports the claim that approximately 20% of LGBTQ+ people have experienced sexual assault in LGBTQ+ venues, reinforcing the need for stricter safety measures.
- https://www.noahwire.com – This source provides the original context for the article, though it does not directly support specific claims about the prevalence of sexual assault in LGBTQ+ venues.
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
9
Notes:
The narrative appears to be recent, referencing a specific campaign and research conducted by LGBT Hero. No indications of outdated information were found.
Quotes check
Score:
8
Notes:
The quote from Ian Howley, CEO of LGBT Hero, could not be verified as the earliest known reference online. However, it aligns with the context of the campaign and is likely original to this piece.
Source reliability
Score:
7
Notes:
The narrative originates from Diva Magazine, which is a known publication focused on LGBTQ+ issues. However, it is not as widely recognized for general news reliability as major outlets like the BBC or Financial Times.
Plausability check
Score:
9
Notes:
The claims regarding sexual assault in LGBTQIA venues are plausible and align with broader societal concerns about safety in such spaces. The statistics provided seem consistent with the seriousness of the issue.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): HIGH
Summary:
The narrative appears to be recent and well-supported by plausible claims. While the source reliability could be higher, the information seems credible and aligns with ongoing concerns about safety in LGBTQIA venues.
