By Georgie Chambers, Content and Social Media Producer

What is LGBTQAI+ history month?

LGBTQAI+ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Asexual, Intersex and the plus symbol includes other identities and allies within the community. LGBTQAI+ History Month is a time to honour the past, celebrate progress, and push for greater equality. It is also a chance to recognise the voices that have often been left out of history.

Each year has a theme, and for February 2026, the theme is "science and innovation" While we reflect on the past, this theme reminds us how research, evidence and data can push progress forward. Good information helps challenge unfair practices, shape better support, and create real change that lasts.

At SeeAbility, we know that some people with learning disabilities face extra challenges when expressing their sexuality and forming relationships, especially if they identify as LGBTQAI+. There can be misunderstandings, lack of support, or even restrictions that make it harder for people to live as their true selves. 

Data and research play a key role in improving lives. They help show where inequality exists and what needs to change.

For LGBTQAI+ people with disabilities, evidence can highlight gaps in healthcare, education, employment and safe spaces. It can also show what works well, so good practice can be shared and built on.

When decisions are based on facts and real experiences, support becomes fairer and more effective. This is how innovation leads to better outcomes for people we support and for colleagues across SeeAbility.

Looking back at Pride in London 2025

In July 2025, SeeAbility joined thousands of people in the city centre for Bristol Pride. It was a joyful and powerful day celebrating diversity, visibility and the ongoing fight for equality.

Despite the high temperatures, the atmosphere was full of connection and energy. We were proud to stand alongside the community and be part of a march that is both a celebration and a protest, reminding us there is still work to do.

We were supported by our funding partners at RPC, whose support made it possible for SeeAbility to take part in the parade and host a stall. This gave us the chance to talk with people, share our work, and connect with others who care about inclusion.

This year was especially meaningful as one of the people we support through our Ready, Willing and Able programme was commissioned to create artwork for the parade.

We were honoured to carry our banner and share sticker designs created by this talented artist. It was a proud moment that showed the creativity, skill and contribution of people with learning disabilities and autism.

Opportunities like this matter. They show what is possible when barriers are removed and people are supported to share their talents.

How we support LGBTQAI+ colleagues and people we support

Equity, diversity, and inclusion are not about ticking the box or following a trend – they are about truly believing in the power of inclusion and ensuring that every person, regardless of their background or identity, feels valued and respected using evidence and listening to lived experience helps us understand these barriers and remove them.

At SeeAbility, we are committed to fostering a sense of belonging, inclusion, and equity for all. Our inclusion networks, wellbeing coach team, and Leadership Academy have all been instrumental in ensuring that our colleagues and the people we support feel seen, valued, and respected.

We actively support LGBTQAI+ colleagues and the people we support through:

• Amplifying LGBTQAI+ voices – sharing stories of activists and social change, especially those from the disability community.
   
• Ensuring LGBTQAI+ people with disabilities feel included – breaking down barriers and making sure everyone has a space to belong.
   
• Providing inclusive leadership training – all our managers are trained in inclusive leadership to support diverse teams.
   
• Our Ready, Willing, and Able employment programme – supporting people with learning disabilities to secure meaningful employment. 86% of people with learning disabilities who are not currently employed want a job. Continued commitment from employers is essential to ensuring more people can contribute to the economy and create an equal society.
   
• Celebrating diversity through our EDB (Equity, Diversity, and Belonging) strategy – Read more about our commitment to inclusion.

LGBTQAI+ History Month and Pride remind us that progress comes from visibility, evidence and people working together. SeeAbility will keep listening, learning and supporting a fairer future. It is about building a world where everyone can live, love, thrive and belong every day.