Alarming bullying stats show almost 50% of LGBTQI+ secondary school students have experienced it

Almost 50% of LGBTQI+ secondary school students in Ireland said they have experienced homophobic, biphobic or transphobic bullying.

This is according to the Being LGBTQI+ in Ireland report, which was recently published by Trinity College Dublin in partnership with charity Belong To. It found that 79% of secondary school students have witnessed anti-LGBTQ+ bullying in their school, while 26% reported that they had missed or skipped school to avoid bullying.

Some 32% said they thought about leaving school due to negative treatment related to being LGBTQI+. The report came as Stand Up Awareness Week takes place this week across Ireland as it was officially launched today.

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Belong To is anticipating the highest level of participation by secondary schools, Youthreach centres and youth services yet, as 75% of schools across Ireland took part in the campaign in 2023. The theme of this year’s event is ‘Standing Up in our Communities’.

Under this theme, educators and students are encouraged to consider activities that promote LGBTQ+ inclusion and safety in all spaces, from engaging with local government to cultural and sports groups, to foster more inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ people in all walks of life.

Commenting on the launch of the event today, Education Minister Norma Foley said: “Every child and young person deserves an experience in school that is safe, that is happy and that is inclusive. We know that bullying can rob a child or young person of their happiness and satisfaction, and it can cause significant damage to them.

"Last June, I published the Bí Cineálta procedures for schools. These procedures will provide schools with valuable resources and guidance on supporting students and on preventing and addressing bullying behaviour, including bullying behaviour related to LGBTQI+ issues."

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