Finding a place to live should never come with fear, judgement, or uncertainty. Yet for many LGBTQIA+ people across Scotland, particularly in Edinburgh, the reality of renting is still shaped by experiences of discrimination, discomfort, or simply being misunderstood. At 1LET we’re working to change that—because everyone deserves to feel safe and seen in their own home.
The Reality Behind the Rainbow
Despite the progress made in recent years, many LGBTQIA+ renters continue to face challenges in the private housing sector. For some, it’s the hesitancy in declaring their relationship status to a letting agent.
For others, especially trans and non-binary individuals, it can mean navigating awkward or invasive questions during viewings and applications.
"I’ve had landlords who made me feel like I had to ‘disclose’ that I was gay—as if it was a condition to be approved," shared one renter from Leith. "It made me think twice about where I could live safely."
These aren’t isolated incidents. According to research by LGBT Youth Scotland, young LGBTQIA+ people are at an increased risk of housing insecurity, often due to family rejection, limited financial support, and mental health struggles. Many individuals report feeling unsafe or unsupported in the rental system, with few knowing where to turn for help.
Our Approach: Inclusivity in Action
At 1LET, we don’t just put a rainbow in our window during Pride month—we back it up with real, meaningful action. We believe in creating an inclusive lettings experience that uplifts LGBTQIA+ renters and actively works to remove the barriers they often face.
One way we do this is through LGBTQIA+ sensitivity training for all our staff. This ensures that every interaction, at every stage of the lettings process, is respectful, informed, and inclusive. We also take care to use inclusive language in our listings and communications, avoiding assumptions or stereotypes and reflecting the true diversity of our community.
We carefully vet landlords to ensure they share our values of equality and fairness. Our commitment doesn’t end there—we also provide discreet support for tenants who may be facing discrimination or need help navigating sensitive housing issues. Every tenant deserves to feel safe and respected, and we are here to help make that a reality.
Privacy and respect are central to our communication practices. We offer flexible ID processes and honour name preferences, which is especially important for trans and non-binary tenants.
"We want our renters to know: you don’t have to reveal your sexuality to your letting agent to be treated with dignity—respect is our default," says Zefron Cochrane, Lettings Negotiator at 1LET.
Shining a Light: LGBT Youth Scotland
We’re proud to champion the work of LGBT Youth Scotland, a leading national charity supporting LGBTQIA+ young people through advice, support services, and policy advocacy. Their work in housing is vital—providing emergency accommodation referrals, helping young people understand their rights as tenants, and lobbying for safer, more equitable housing policies in Scotland.
"Far too many LGBTQIA+ youth are forced into unsafe or temporary housing situations," says Dr. Mhairi Crawford, CEO of LGBT Youth Scotland. "Support from organisations across all sectors—including lettings—is essential in ensuring young people not only have a roof over their heads, but a place they can call home."
We regularly signpost clients and tenants to LGBT Youth Scotland resources and are exploring opportunities to work more closely with their outreach and education programmes.
A Home for Everyone
We believe Edinburgh’s rental market should be a place where everyone—regardless of who they are or who they love—can find somewhere they truly feel at home. Whether you're moving in with a partner, transitioning and seeking respectful support, or simply looking for a landlord who sees and values you as a whole person—we’re here to help.
" This isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about building trust and belonging,” says Ken Bell, Director at 1LET. “Everyone deserves to open their front door and feel safe, respected, and truly at home.”
🏡 Looking for a letting agency that sees you for who you are?
Get in touch with us today to browse inclusive listings, speak with our friendly team, or learn more about how we’re supporting Edinburgh’s LGBTQIA+ community—365 days a year, not just during Pride Month.