Celebrating National Coming Out Day: Be proud, be you

National Coming Out Day took place over the weekend, and we want to say this loud and clear: we’re proud to welcome every student at UoB as their full, authentic self.

Coming out is a deeply personal journey – there’s no single right time or way to do it. Whether you’ve come out, are thinking about it, or are simply exploring your identity, you deserve to feel safe and supported on campus.

If you’d like to talk to someone, meet others in the LGBTQ+ community, or just find a space where you can truly be yourself, there are people and places here for you.

LGBTQ+ Wellbeing Drop-In

Run by Birmingham LGBT, these drop-in sessions offer a safe and confidential space to chat with a specialist who understands LGBTQ+ wellbeing. No booking is needed, just come along.

• Next session: 20 October, 12–4pm (last drop-in at 3:30pm)
• Location: The Wellbeing Lodge (by North Gate)

You can also contact the Birmingham LGBT Centre directly for help improving your wellbeing and a safe space to discuss any issues you have.

The Guild LGBTQ+ Association

Run by students, for students, the LGBTQ+ Association is a great way to connect, make friends, and find support on campus. They organise socials, discussion spaces, and community events to help you feel seen and supported at UoB.

You can also join their Discord server or follow them on social media to stay up to date with events and conversations.

LGBTQ+ Mentoring Scheme

If you’d like longer-term, one-to-one support as you navigate your identity and career, consider applying for UoB’s LGBTQ+ Mentoring Scheme.
This programme, run through the Careers Network, matches LGBTQ+ students with mentors who can share their experiences of being out in professional settings, offer guidance on building networks, and support you in shaping a more confident, authentic career path.

Applications open in early December 2025, and the mentoring relationships run for six months starting mid-February. If you’d like to express your interest now (or get notified when applications open), you can complete the Expression of Interest form.

Need to talk to someone soon?

If you need someone to talk to quickly, whether about coming out, identity, or anything else, you can call trained professionals on the UBHeard helpline. There is also a range of wellbeing services available to all students such as Pause drop-ins and therapeutic support. Explore our Time to Talk? pages.

Remember: you belong here, you’re valued, you’re seen, and we’re proud to have you as part of the University of Birmingham community exactly as you are.