At EEM, we’re always looking at ways to support our members beyond procurement – whether that’s sharing good practice, highlighting useful initiatives, or helping you stay connected to what’s happening across the sector.
One area that’s getting more attention (and rightly so) is LGBTQ+ inclusion in social housing – and a key initiative behind that is the LGBTQ+ Housing Pledge.
Developed by HouseProud and delivered in partnership with Stonewall Housing, the Pledge gives housing providers a clear, practical way to strengthen how they support LGBTQ+ residents.
So, what actually is it?
The LGBTQ+ Housing Pledge is a voluntary scheme that social housing providers can sign up to.
It’s designed to help organisations move from good intentions to something more structured – embedding inclusion into everyday practice, not just one-off activity.
It was created following sector research (including the No Place Like Home? study), which highlighted that many LGBTQ+ residents still don’t feel fully safe or able to be themselves in their homes.
Why does it matter?
For most people, home should be a safe, comfortable place. But that’s not always the case.
Research behind the Pledge found that:
- Some residents don’t feel safe in their neighbourhoods
- People may hide parts of their identity at home
- There’s sometimes a lack of confidence in how issues are handled
So this is about more than policy – it’s about real day-to-day experiences.
What does signing up involve?
The Pledge is built around two levels:
Pledge Pioneer – focusing on core actions like:
- Involving LGBTQ+ residents in decision-making
- Increasing visibility and awareness
- Providing relevant training
Pledge Plus – going further by:
- Working directly with residents to shape improvements
- Committing resource to deliver change
- Demonstrating clear progress and outcomes
It’s flexible, but structured – giving organisations a way to build on what they’re already doing.
Why are organisations getting involved?
Many housing providers are already doing elements of this – the Pledge helps bring it together.
It can support organisations to:
- Better understand and engage with residents
- Build trust and stronger relationships
- Show a clear, evidenced commitment to inclusion
Want to find out more?
On 9th June 2026, Stonewall Housing delivered an informative webinar especially for EEM members to explain more about the Housing Pledge.
Please watch the below, or feel free to contact Jack Mason, LGBTQ+ Housing Pledge Project Co‑ordinator, Stonewall Housing on jack@stonewallhousing.org if you have any questions.
