LGBT HERO's project engaged 12,219 underrepresented Londoners overall, 61% of whom were LGBTQ+ Londoners.
- Respondents to the participants' survey reported that their understanding of who their elected representatives are and what they do, as well as how to contact them increased by 78% and 88% respectively.
- 79% reported that they were more likely to vote at the next opportunity.
Through LGBT HERO’s outreach in community spaces, they talked with thousands of LGBTQ+ people with dynamic conversations that helped them understand their rights and really engage with the democratic process.
“It was good to learn about how to contact my local MP/find out who they are, and how to find out what petitions are going on both in and out of my local area.” - Attendee at outreach event
“This session was AMAZING, I have learned so much even though I thought I already knew most of it (I didn’t). I'm so excited to share everything I have learned with as many people as possible. Thank you so much for coming to speak to us Sam!!” - Attendee at outreach event
They also provided workshops aimed at increasing democratic participation for trans Londoners, which featured a detailed presentation on the different ways that trans voters can engage. Workshop attendees reflected on how valuable the learning was and signposted to their updated LGBTQ+ Democracy Hub.
"It was good to have space to talk about this, and useful to consider the things I can do beyond putting a cross in a box. I always thought that contacting my MP or writing letters was a bit of a waste of time, but this has highlighted that it can be an important part of our activism." - Attendee at trans workshop
“I wish I had learned more about this at school, it wasn’t talked about at all. I feel like I understand it more now, although I don’t feel very inspired by the political choices currently on offer!” - Attendee at trans workshop
“Thank you for an interesting presentation and discussion. Lots to take back to the team. It is getting increasingly difficult to engage our young people in this, because they think what is the point and sometimes it is hard to disagree. Every time it feels like we have some politicians on our side, the rug gets pulled out again.” - Attendee at trans workshop