LGBT+ History Month 2026: Improving Healthcare Together

LGBT+ History Month is a time to celebrate progress and notice where change is still needed. One important area is healthcare as many LGBT+ people still face judgement, misunderstanding, or unequal treatment when seeking support.

Why this matters

Research shows that LGBT+ people often experience poorer health outcomes. Some report hearing anti-LGBT remarks or feeling dismissed. These experiences can damage confidence and stop people from asking for help again.

From recent engagement in Southend and nearby areas, we listened as people described healthcare as mixed and sometimes confusing. There is a clear need for better advice, joined-up services between GPs and specialists, and support when care arrangements or medications change.

Moving forward

In 2025, the NHS launched its first ever national review to tackle health inequalities experienced by LGBT+ people in the UK. This review looks at barriers in access, experience and outcomes across many services, including mental health, cancer screening and primary care, with the final report and recommendations for Government due early 2026

Sharing your experience with Healthwatch Southend, positive or negative, helps shape fairer healthcare for the whole community. We can anonymously raise issues affecting people to commissioners of healthcare services.

You can contact us on 01702 416320 or email info@healthwatchsouthend.co.uk

Support in Southend

Transpire is a transgender support network with volunteers organising inclusive events, offering peer support and advocating for positive change.

Transpire

NHS support page for people who are LGBQ+ and need help for mental health, includes guidance and some helpful links

NHS LGBTQ+

Southend Pride hold several inclusive events throughout the year to help support LGBT+ people of all ages, find out more by visiting their Facebook page

Southend Pride