A fresh LGBTQ+ news roundup brings together stubborn challenges and signs of progress, from Northern Ireland’s rarely used scheme for clearing historic gay convictions to concerns about bullying in Irish schools. Meanwhile, basketball star Gabby Williams has spoken about death threats after backing trans athletes, and Clapham’s Two Brewers has reopened with a refurbished stage and nightclub.
Essential Takeaways
- Historic convictions: Northern Ireland’s disregard scheme has received three applications since 2018, with none approved so far.
- School safety: Belong To’s research found that 48% of Irish secondary pupils think a gay, lesbian or bisexual classmate would face bullying if they came out; the figure is 52% for a transgender classmate.
- A player speaks out: Basketball star Gabby Williams has described receiving death threats after supporting trans athletes.
- A venue gets a refresh: Clapham’s Two Brewers has reopened after a six-figure refurbishment, with a redesigned cabaret stage and a dedicated nightclub space.
Northern Ireland’s conviction scheme has seen few applications
A scheme intended to address historic convictions for consensual same-sex activity has received just three applications in eight years, with none approved. That strikingly low number raises a practical question: how many people know the route exists, and how difficult is it to revisit an old conviction?
According to NI Digest, the scheme covers certain offences that have since been abolished, including gross indecency. Applications can only succeed where the conduct was consensual and would not be a criminal offence today. The Department of Justice is reviewing the scheme, with possible changes expected to be considered after the next Assembly elections.
For anyone who thinks they may qualify, the Government’s application guidance explains the process. But paperwork is only part of the story: revisiting a conviction can be emotionally difficult, as Northern Ireland charity the Rainbow Project has acknowledged.### Sources by paragraph:
Irish students see a risk of bullying, especially for trans classmates
The school findings are troublingly direct: 48% of secondary students in Ireland believe a gay, lesbian or bisexual classmate would be bullied if they came out. For a transgender classmate, the proportion rises to 52%, according to research published by youth charity Belong To.
There is a more hopeful note, though it doesn't erase the concern. The share of students who think their school offers a safe, supportive environment for LGBTQ+ pupils rose from 72% in 2023 to 76% in 2025. Belong To’s Stand Up Awareness Week campaign, themed “You Belong Here”, aims to encourage understanding and inclusion in schools.### Sources by paragraph:
Gabby Williams says threats won't silence her support for trans athletes
Professional basketball player Gabby Williams has spoken about receiving death threats after publicly supporting transgender athletes. The Golden State Valkyries forward said the backlash created security concerns, a sobering reminder of the personal cost that can come with taking a public stand.
Williams said she intends to keep advocating for transgender rights, while also praising the support she received from her team's fans. As PinkNews reported, she has argued that athletes can use their platforms to challenge discrimination and amplify people who may struggle to be heard.### Sources by paragraph:
Two Brewers reopens with a brighter Clapham look
After a six-figure refurbishment, the Two Brewers has reopened with a redesigned cabaret stage, improved seating, upgraded lighting and a dedicated nightclub space. Even the exterior has changed, swapping its previous black look for a bold red frontage.
The Clapham venue has been part of London's LGBTQ+ scene since 1981, so the renovation is more than a fresh coat of paint. Attitude reported that the bar reopened on 14 October after a temporary closure, with Stonegate Group describing the investment as a commitment to the venue and its community. In a nightlife landscape facing real pressures, seeing an established LGBTQ+ space invest in its next chapter feels like welcome news.### Sources by paragraph:
From school corridors to the dance floor, safety, visibility and welcoming spaces still matter.### Sources by paragraph:
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