Rainbow Laces Day

Celebrate Rainbow Laces Day on 8 October  

Everyone should feel free to move, play and participate. Yet for the LGBTQ+ community there are still barriers which make it harder for people to get involved and enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits movement brings.  

Taking place right before World Mental Health Day, Rainbow Laces Day is a day of action, bringing people together to create sporting and movement spaces where LGBTQ+ people know they belong.  

This Rainbow Laces Day, we're asking everyone to take one action for LGBTQ+ inclusion. 

Whether you're an individual, a workplace, a sports club or team, one small action can make a big difference. 

Why not try a new sport or activity, organise a wellbeing walk for your colleagues, host a beginner friendly session at your club or simply wear your Rainbow Laces and start a conversation? 

LGBTQ+ people are disproportionately affected by poor mental health 

A recent YouGov survey found that 76% of people identifying as members of the LGBTQ+ community have experienced, or were currently experiencing, mental ill-health, compared to 44% of ‘all’ respondents. 

At the same time, three times as many LGBTQ+ people still face discrimination whilst exercising. 

No one should have to choose between being themselves and taking part in sport or movement. This Rainbow Laces Day we want the LGBTQ+ community to know they can move with pride, feel they belong, and experience the positive impact that sport and movement can have on their mental wellbeing. 

How to get involved