In April 2025, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care commissioned NHS England to undertake an LGBT+ health evidence review. The review aims to:

• better understand LGBT+ healthcare needs
• provide expert insight and recommendations
• build a foundation for future action on health inequalities

The review is led by Dr Michael Brady and launched in July 2025.

It is due to conclude in January 2026 with a final report and recommendations for the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.

Objectives

1. Identifying barriers to accessing healthcare services for LGBT+ people.
2. Exploring experiences of healthcare, notably areas of poorer experience.
3. Understanding the impact of LGBT+ health inequalities on outcomes and patient safety.

Clarifying the specific health needs of LGBT+ people and how they should best be met, especially where there is evidence of poorer outcomes.

The review examines high-need and high-use services including mental health, sexual and reproductive health, HIV, perinatal care, primary care, cancer screening and wellbeing and prevention (for example, smoking, alcohol use and drug use).

It aligns with the 10 Year Health Plan and the Darzi review’s 3 core shifts:

• sickness to prevention
• hospital to community
• analogue to digital

We have been gathering insights through:

• a literature review
• analysis of relevant datasets and surveys
• evidence submissions
• expert advisory group input and advice
• nationwide engagement events

Contact us for further information: england.LGBTEvidenceReview@nhs.net