08:27, 22 June 2026
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
For Pride month it is important that we highlight a range of issues that LGBTQIA+ people face, especially the lesser known ones. In 2026, homosexuality is still criminalised in 65 countries, in addition to 13 countries that explicitly persecute those that are transgender.
Due to these laws in other countries some LGBT people flee to the UK to achieve safety. Micro Rainbow, a charity in the UK that supports LGBTQI asylum seekers, released a touching film that explores the impact of safe housing.
With over 2000 people claiming asylum annually in the UK based on their sexuality or gender identity, it is of the most importance that they are offered safe residence.
Micro Rainbow’s mission is to eradicate the homelessness of people feeling persecution when they arrive in the UK and their film ‘Who’s There?’ follows Alex, a gay Malawian man who sought asylum in the UK to escape severe anti-LGBTQI laws at home. After facing continued safety fears in initial accommodation, he moved into a Micro Rainbow safe house. There, he met Gabe, a confident and openly LGBTQI resident whose warm, inclusive welcome helped Alex overcome a lifetime of hiding and begin his healing journey.
In a statement, Sebastian Rocca, Micro Rainbow founder and CEO said: “Alex’s story is one of courage, hope, and self-discovery. In “Who’s there?”, we see just how vital safe spaces are for LGBTQI asylum seekers. A place to sleep is important, but what we offer is more than a bed – it’s the chance to be yourself without fear.”
The release of this film also coincides with the charity’s 30th safe house, resulting in Micro Rainbow’s safe house capacity being more than 40,000 bed-nights each year.
The film was made with support and guidance from The Media Trust and funding from the Santander Foundation. It was also a finalist in the 2026 Smiley Charity Film Awards.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Micro Rainbow. This charity steps in to eradicate homelessness for LGBTQI asylum seekers arriving in the UK after fleeing severe persecution. By opening safe houses and providing peer support, they create secure environments where refugees can heal and live authentically. Learn more here.
Rainbow Railroad. This is a US-based charity that acts as a vital lifeline by helping LGBTQI+ individuals escape state-sanctioned violence and immediate danger worldwide. Through emergency relocation and crisis response, they guide displaced people across borders to countries where they can live freely. Discover their work here.
ORAM (Organization for Refuge, Asylum & Migration). This international nonprofit operates globally to protect exceptionally vulnerable LGBTQI+ asylum seekers from continued abuse within refugee transit systems. By providing direct economic empowerment and legal aid, they help refugees rebuild sustainable, safe futures in their new host countries. Find out more here.
