Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, + (LGBTQ+)
Compared to other groups, data on the physical activity levels of the LGBTQ+ communities is less well established. As a result, relatively little has been done to address engagement of these communities.
Emerging research suggests that participation within different groups of the LGBTQ+ family also have differing rates. For example, in the ‘Sport, Physical Activity and LGBT’ report by Pride Sports; Lesbian youth (84%) and lesbian adults (59%) were more likely to participate in team sports than gay youth (61%) and gay adults (37%). The same research reports that 55% of LGBTQ+ men were not active enough to maintain good health, compared to 33% of men in the general population whilst 56% of LGBTQ+ women were not active enough to maintain good health, compared to 45% of women in the general population.
In May 2020, the LGBT Foundation published research findings into the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on LGBT communities in the United Kingdom. The research showed the wide-reaching negative impact that the pandemic has had, including mental health; isolation; substance misuse; eating disorders; living in unsafe environments; financial impact; homelessness; access to healthcare; and access to support.
LGBT+ (Sport England)
Recommendations
- Diverse activities demonstrating desired behaviours (CA)
- Convenient flexible schedule with variation for time of day and week (CA) (PD)
- Focus on local partnerships and peer mentorship to promote self-advocacy (PD) (EMG)
- Access to gender neutral and women only facilities (EMG) (SE)
- Ensure a safe environment and location which is free from discrimination (RG) (SE)
- Diversity training essential for leaders to challenge own bias ((RG)