The new findings from Erobella indicate that Brighton is a place where LGBTQ+ students feel safe, supported and celebrated, further strengthening the university’s reputation for fostering an inclusive and welcoming community. Nationally, the average university score was 6.7, and Brighton was the only institution in the country to rate above 8.

The analysis draws on responses from 2,000 students aged 18–24 across 79 UK universities, who were asked to rate how LGBTQ+ friendly they perceived their university to be. Their ratings place Brighton firmly at the top, reflecting its strong culture of LGBTQ+ inclusion.

Julie Fryatt, Chief People Officer and LGBTQ+ Equity Champion at the University of Brighton, said:

“The city of Brighton is known nationally as a hub for diversity and LGBTQ+ pride, and we’ve worked hard to ensure that spirit is reflected on campus. Our Stonewall Gold Award and this incredible student recognition show that Brighton is a place where LGBTQ+ equity isn’t just a policy – it’s a lived experience. We want to cultivate a culture where every colleague and student feels safe, respected, and empowered to be themselves.”

The survey results build on the university’s longstanding commitment to equality. Last year, Brighton placed 14th in Stonewall’s Top 100 Employers List and was awarded the prestigious Stonewall Gold Award – recognising its sector-leading work in creating an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ staff and students.

This commitment is underpinned by LGBTQ+ and Trans Awareness training, staff-led Equity Network Groups, Active Bystander programmes, and the university’s Centre for Transforming Sexuality and Gender (CTSG) – an internationally recognised research centre promoting anti-racist and gender-inclusive research across sexuality, gender, and social change.

Mentoring programmes for LGBTQ+ students and the Brighton Students Union LGBTQ+ Society further strengthen belonging on campus. These initiatives ensure that students have visible role models, dedicated spaces and opportunities to connect with others across the University.

Second year Creative Writing BA(Hons) student and Brighton Students’ Union Communities Officer, Rosie Birch, said:

“I’m absolutely delighted, though never surprised. Brighton has always been, and will always be, a place where you can show up exactly as you are and be loved for it. I am endlessly proud of our LGBTQ+ community and every ally who stands alongside. Together, we show what compassion, unity, and courage looks like in action. And now, more than ever, we will continue to lead by example and show the world the transformative power of authenticity and love.”

Frank Thornton, Co-Chair of the LGBTQ+ Staff Network, EDI Team Administrator and former student, added:

“Brighton gave me the freedom to become myself – first as a student and now as a member of staff. The LGBTQ+ Staff Network is a vital space for connection and advocacy, and it’s amazing to see how far the university has come in creating a culture where everyone can thrive.”

Brighton’s commitment to equity extends across all protected characteristics. Earlier this year, the university was awarded the Race Equality Charter Silver Award by Advance HE, becoming one of only six universities in the UK to hold this prestigious recognition. This reflects wider work to ensure fair treatment and opportunity for all staff and students.

The university also operates a zero-tolerance approach to harassment, bullying and discrimination through its #NeverOK pledge. Students and staff can access confidential reporting tools and support from trained Harassment Disclosure Response Advisors, ensuring anyone affected can speak up safely and receive guidance on next steps.

Brighton’s recognition as the UK’s most LGBTQ+ friendly university is a powerful reflection of its ongoing work to champion inclusion. It demonstrates the impact of long-term commitment, meaningful investment and the voices of students who continue to shape a community where everyone can thrive.

This analysis is based on survey responses from 2,000 UK university students aged 18-24, collected in October 2025 by Erobella in partnership with Pollfish.