Hidden Figures is a major national report published by LGBT Foundation in May 2020, presenting findings from the largest study at the time into how the COVID-19 pandemic affected LGBT communities in the United Kingdom.
Drawing on responses from an online survey of 555 LGBT people, alongside existing evidence on LGBT health inequalities and LGBT Foundation’s service user data, the report highlights how the pandemic both exposed and intensified pre-existing inequalities. While the pandemic affected the whole population, the findings demonstrate that LGBT people experienced distinct and disproportionate impacts across health, wellbeing, safety and access to services.
Key findings
The research found that the pandemic had significant effects on LGBT people’s mental health, living situations and access to care:
- 42% of respondents wanted to access mental health support, rising to 66% among Black, Asian and minority ethnic LGBT people
- 30% were living alone, increasing to 40% among LGBT people aged 50 and over
- 25% wanted support to reduce isolation, such as befriending services
- 18% were concerned the pandemic could lead to substance or alcohol misuse, or trigger relapse
- 8% did not feel safe in their current living environment, often due to LGBTphobic family members or housemates
- 16% were unable to access healthcare for non-COVID-related issues
- 34% had a medical appointment cancelled
- 23% were unable to access medication, or were worried they might not be able to
The report also highlights particular impacts on trans and non-binary people, including severe disruption to gender identity services, delays to transition-related care, and concerns about access to hormone medication.
Implications
The findings underline the importance of recognising LGBT communities in emergency planning and recovery. The report emphasises the need for:
- Inclusive and culturally competent healthcare and support services
- Targeted mental health, domestic abuse and substance misuse support
- LGBT-specific services that people feel safe accessing
- Action to address structural inequalities that place LGBT people at greater risk during crises
Hidden Figures provides critical insight for health and care systems seeking to reduce inequalities and ensure that LGBT people are not overlooked in future public health emergencies.
Read the full Hidden Figures report