The LGBTQ+ population in Brent - 2021 Census topic report

This briefing summarises census data about sexual orientation and gender identity in Brent. All figures relate to the adult population aged 16 and over.

Update: Data quality - census gender identity statistics

Since this report was drafted, significant data quality concerns have been raised about the census data on gender identity. In November 2023, ONS released a report on the quality of gender identity data which raised some questions about how accurate the data might be. This report acknowledged that some areas (like Brent) had a higher rate of trans responses than might have been expected. ONS concluded that some respondents may not have interpreted the question as intended, especially in areas where residents had lower proficiency levels in English. A further review of gender identity statistics was published in September 2024 by the Office for Statistics Regulation. This formally stated that census gender identity statistics no longer hold the accredited official statistics designation and are now reclassified as official statistics in development.

These quality issues should be considered when interpreting the gender identity data enclosed in this briefing.

Accessing 2021 census data

2021 census data can found on the NOMIS website - the official website for census and labour market statistics produced by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). NOMIS also provides access to statistics from previous censuses.

The ONS has produced an interactive mapping tool which allows exploration of 2021 census data by gender identity and sexual orientation across local authority and small areas (MSOAs).

Accessibility

The briefing below is provided here in PDF format and efforts have been made to ensure that the report is accessible to users of assistive technologies. However, if you cannot access the material and require it in a different format, please contact the open data team to discuss your requirements. Data tables used to create the charts and tables in the report have been made available below in spreadsheet format, along with a series of additional data tables.