Sense of Safety and School Climate Among LGBTQ+ Adolescents in Flanders: Results from the 2021–2022 Flemish School Climate Survey

This study aimed to explore LGBTQ+ adolescents' sense of safety, inclusivity and LGBTQ±friendliness at schools in Flanders. Through an online survey during the school year 2021-2022, quantitative data was collected from 783 high school students identifying as LGBTQ+. The results revealed a high prevalence of hate speech, harassment, and discrimination. Friendly and inclusive LGBTQ+ climate indicators, along with supportive school staff, were associated with a heightened sense of safety, a reduction of school absence, and an improved mental and school well-being. These findings emphasize the importance of continuing efforts to foster safer school environments and outline directions for additional research.