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National conference #SaferToBeMe brings hope to LGBTQ+ youth in uncertain times
Educators, community leaders, youth workers and charities from across the UK attended a sold-out major national conference in Gateshead on Friday 6 November organised by ReportOUT and OUT North East.
The #SaferToBeMe2026 conference explored challenges facing LGBTQ+ youth today such as changing legislation and education policies and focused on practical solutions to creating safe spaces and effective support. It was held at the ONE Centre in Pelaw, Gateshead, the region’s only LGBTQ+ community centre.
The major conference saw keynotes from a variety of speakers including:
Sue Sanders, CEO of Schools OUT and a leading LGBTQ+ education campaigner.
Laïla El-Métoui, founder of Pride in Education and an advocate for inclusive education.
Kate Osborne MP, Member of Parliament for Jarrow and Gateshead East and a long standing advocate for LGBTQ+ equality.
Colin Scott, former secondary school head teacher, bringing experience of education and supporting young people.
The one-day event featured a packed schedule of keynote speeches, interactive workshops, panel interviews and a dance performance from Gateshead College students.
Sue Sanders, CEO of Schools OUT, said: “I attended Safer To Be Me because I wanted to work with people who are passionate about the safety and the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, and I was not disappointed.
“The incredible work that is being done collectively by organisers ReportOUT, OUT North East and everyone who was in attendance, is astonishing.
“My key takeaway from the conference was the sheer joy of witnessing young people being involved in such an event, and seeing the talent, passion and eagerness to learn across generations was wonderful.”
Drew Dalton, CEO of ReportOUT, said: “The Safer To Be Me conference was designed to bring together expertise and lived experience to help create a safer and brighter future for our youth. We’re so proud to have hosted this event and to have provided a safe platform for positive and practical discussions.
“Young LGBTQ+ people have been at the forefront of this event. We’ve worked alongside Gateshead College and are very thankful to their students who spoke at panel events and helped with catering, media support and their fantastic dance team who provided a performance for delegates.
“The conference was sold out which demonstrates the appetite for learning and collaboration, and this provides hope at a time when it’s needed most.”
Peter Darrant, CEO of OUT North East, said: “Organising Safer To Be Me has been an incredible opportunity to create a space of learning, with young people at its heart. The conference has highlighted the importance and effectiveness of working in collaboration with organisations such as ReportOUT and others across the UK.
“We’re facing rising prejudice and ever-changing political landscapes. No one organisation can tackle these challenges by themselves, but by working together, sharing knowledge, experiences and skills, we can absolutely create meaningful change and pave the way for future generations.”
For more information on the conferecne and the programme and topics visit: www.reportout.org/safertobeme2026
