It's out - and we're even more proud! New research shows Open Table is changing lives across England & Wales
The cover of the report Open Table Network: Research and Case for Support 2026 by Dot to Dot Training & Consultancy.
FIVE YEARS after our first independent research into the impact of Open Table, we're delighted to publish our new Research & Case for Support 2026.
The research, carried out independently by Dot to Dot Training & Consultancy, paints a powerful picture of a growing network that continues to transform lives through welcome, belonging and inclusive Christian community.
Since our first research in 2021, Open Table has grown from 18 to 37 communities across England and Wales - an increase of 106% - while continuing to support LGBTQIA+ people and allies to flourish in faith and community.
Most importantly, the research confirms what so many people have told us over the years: Open Table communities make a real and lasting difference.
What the research found
The report highlights five key areas where Open Table is having significant impact for our community members:
“Just my deepest and sincerest thank you to Open Table for offering a haven in my storm.”
94% said being part of an Open Table community has improved their wellbeing.
84% said Open Table has significantly reduced their feelings of isolation.
73% said being part of an Open Table community makes them feel safe.
83% (and 95% of leaders) said volunteers play a significant role in creating safer, more welcoming communities.
The research also found that many LGBTQIA+ Christians continue to face barriers in mainstream churches, meaning affirming spaces like Open Table remain both necessary and deeply valued.
What people said
Alongside the statistics, the report is filled with moving stories from members and leaders about the difference Open Table has made to their lives.
One member said:
‘I had stopped attending church before I came to Open Table. Now I've reconnected with my faith again.’
Another reflected:
‘My mental health is better and I am less suicidal.’
And at the end of the report:
‘Just my deepest and sincerest thank you to Open Table, for offering a haven in my storm.’
Building on the 2021 research
Our first research report, published in 2021, showed that Open Table communities were improving wellbeing and reducing isolation during and beyond the pandemic. This new research demonstrates that those findings were not a one-off.
Instead, they have been strengthened by the experiences of a new generation of members and leaders, while the network itself has more than doubled in size. Members and leaders consistently describe Open Table as a place of welcome, belonging and safety, where people can bring together their faith, sexuality and gender identity without fear.
The report also identifies important priorities for the future, including:
supporting more local communities,
strengthening leadership,
reaching younger and more diverse LGBTQIA+ Christians, and
helping more churches become places of genuine welcome.
Looking ahead
The report comes at a time when many LGBTQIA+ people continue to experience exclusion within church life, while the funding environment for both LGBTQIA+ and faith-based charities has become increasingly challenging.
Against that backdrop, the findings provide compelling evidence that Open Table is meeting a continuing need and changing lives across England and Wales.
We're incredibly grateful to everyone who shared their experiences through surveys, interviews and focus groups, and to Dot to Dot Training & Consultancy for carrying out this important piece of work.
