Starting university is thrilling, nerve-wracking, and for LGBTQIA+ students, a chance to build a whole new sense of belonging in a supportive and open environment.
No student needs to show up with everything figured out. Maybe your identity is solid and in your stride. Maybe you’re still trying to figure yourself out. Either way, university is a place to explore, connect, and grow – especially in Canterbury’s vibrant LGBTQIA+ scene.
🏳️🌈 Get involved with on‑campus communities
You don’t need a LinkedIn profile full of internships at age 19. What you do need is proof that you’ve shown The University of Kent hosts dedicated support through societies like the LGBTQ+ Society, plus groups for medics (Medway LGBTQ+), Queer BIPOC, and more. They host weekly socials, from quiz nights to board games to drag events – all designed for community, not just parades. Find out more here.
Kent LGBTQ+ Society runs alcohol‑free game nights, drag socials, quizzes and picnics weekly – low‑pressure and low‑key, just what you need to feel like you belong.
You can DM the @ukclgbtq Instagram to join the LGBTQ+ Society WhatsApp – it’s a low-key way to start if showing up in person feels like a lot.
And if you do get involved, don’t forget – our social spaces are yours to use for events, meet-ups, or whatever brings your community together.
💬 Find belonging beyond the socials
Community isn’t only built in student societies. It happens in shared kitchens, lecture halls, and group chats. If you’re moving into student accommodation like Palamon Court, Rhodaus Court or Currus Court, look out for resident WhatsApp groups or flat chats that include queer voices early on. These casual spaces can be just as powerful.
And if you’re heading into your 1st year at university, check out the BeYou Project – they run term-time meet-ups in Canterbury that are social, safe, and judgement-free. Just as it should be!
🛡️ Everyday inclusion, not just Pride month
Kent’s Union runs trans & non-binary friendly gym hours, personal pronoun maps, support networks, and historical awareness events — meaning inclusion isn’t just one month out of twelve. You can read more here.
At Neo, we believe inclusivity should feel natural every day in our flats and common spaces. We also recognise that real change isn’t just visible at the surface – it’s structural.
And it’s not just about June either. At Canterbury Christ Church University, last years LGBTQ+ History Month saw a packed calendar of events – from talks and workshops to film nights and showcases celebrating queer stories and championing student support throughout the year.
Practical tips:
- Make space for others. If someone’s name or pronouns change, use them – no fuss, no spotlight.
- DM the @ukclgbtq Instagram to join Kent’s LGBTQ+ Society WhatsApp – it’s a low-key way to start.
- Grab a Uni‑Kent pride lanyard and show your colours – the easiest first step toward belonging.
You belong here. Promise.
Whether you’re out and loud, navigating quietly, or waiting for the right moment – we welcome you. With on-campus societies, Pride’s energy, community gigs, and genuinely safe spaces, you’re entering a city, university and phase of your life, that’s ready to support you – every month of the year.
So What Now?
We’re building an inclusive community for LGBTQIA+ students across Neo Canterbury – from friend-finder socials to low-key events throughout the year.
📩 Want in? Drop your email here to join the list.
We’ll share what’s coming up at Palamon Court, Rhodaus Court, and Currus Court – and ways you can find your people when you get here.
Your email stays private. No awkwardness. No pressure. Just real connection as and when you want it.
See you in September! Come as you are – your people are waiting 😊
