44 schools and Youthreach centres across Ireland have been recognised for their work on LGBTQ+ inclusion and wellbeing. Each institution completed an 18-month programme with Belong To and was presented with LGBTQ+ Quality Mark accreditation at a ceremony on Friday, March 14.

Over 350 staff and students from 17 counties attended the event. It was hosted at the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire and presented by social media star and TV personality James Kavanagh.

Speaking about the awards, CEO of Belong To Moninne Griffith said: “Homophobia, biphobia and transphobia remain a significant challenge for LGBTQ+ students. The School Climate Survey 2022 conducted by Columbia University has shown that in Ireland, compared to the general youth population, LGBTQ+ students are four times more likely to suffer verbal harassment and five times more likely to be physically harassed. It’s no surprise then that 76% of LGBTQ+ second-level students feel unsafe at school. 

“It is in this context that we say how proud we are at Belong To to have been working with this brilliant cohort of schools and Youthreach centres from all across the country to make positive change and create safe spaces. Every principal, coordinator, teacher and staff member has shown a huge level of commitment to fostering a truly inclusive environment in their school and to supporting all students in their care.

“I want to congratulate all for the actions that they have taken throughout the process and hope that they feel extremely proud to stand with the students and young people from their school or centre today, knowing what a huge impact their work has had and will continue to have on the lives of so many.”

The LGBTQ+ Quality Mark programme was developed by Belong To in 2022 in order to improve the lives and experiences of queer students. It draws on national and international best practice to create an environment where young people feel welcome and safe regardless of their identity.

Applications to take part in the LGBTQ+ Quality Mark initiative for the 2025/26 academic year are now open to schools and Youthreach centres. Full details are available on the Belong To website.