Positive Futures, how supporting LGBT+ young people enables them to thrive in adulthood

Cibyl was recently commissioned by Just Like Us, the LGBT+ young people’s charity, to conduct research into the individual and disproportionate challenges that LGBT+ young adults face in school, their family life, and the workplace.

Cibyl led on research design and delivery, then worked in partnership with Just Like Us to produce the report: ‘Positive Futures, how supporting LGBT+ young people enables them to thrive in adulthood’.

So how does being LGBT+ shape a young adult’s formative years? The research shows that a lack of support in LGBT+ young adults’ teenage years impacts their lives in many ways, including their mental health, their sense of self-worth, and their career outlook.

25% of LGBT+ respondents went back in the closet on starting work; 19% experienced bullying at work; and only 17% are very happy with how their careers are progressing. There is much more employers and careers professionals can do to help LGBT+ young people feel safe and supported.

Cibyl independently surveyed 3,695 18- to 25-year-olds from across the UK in January 2023, including 1,736 LGBT+ respondents. The report was launched in June 2023 with the support of Deloitte.