“Despite some adversities during its infancy such as buy-in and negative social media posts from the local community questioning why such an event was needed and “why is there no ‘straight’ pride”, the founder continued to pursue the event which over time has developed to grow an army of local people from all backgrounds of society in making the event a success by volunteering their time and services with the event being completely not-for-profit.  From attending each year it is clear to see the growth, development and increasing popularity, so much so that the venue relocated three years ago to accommodate larger visitor numbers and has successfully managed to attract bigger, named acts, performers and sponsors.”

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=chesterfield+pride

https://www.derbyshiretimes.co.uk/whats-on/arts-and-entertainment/chesterfield-pride-2022-when-is-it-where-does-it-start-who-is-performing-here-is-everything-else-you-need-to-know-3768614

https://www.derbyshiretimes.co.uk/news/people/star-studded-chesterfield-pride-organiser-is-proud-of-the-way-businesses-and-community-have-helped-event-become-one-of-the-biggest-in-the-country-3771895

https://www.derbyshiretimes.co.uk/news/people/chesterfield-pride-attracts-record-turnout-of-5000-supporters-3782145

“The small group of people who came together to create Prestwich pride held the first ever pride event in Prestwich, raised over £3500 for George house trust and supported a large amount of small businesses in the process! An amazing achievement and they are already on their way to be supported in an even bigger event next year, not to mention events happening in between. Deserved winners of this award, if this is the success of their first event then I’m so excited for their future!”

https://instagram.com/prestwichpride?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

https://www.burytimes.co.uk/news/20671490.prestwich-celebrates-first-pride-event/

https://www.canal-st.co.uk/news/prestwich-pride

“Being one of the trustees and Vice Chair of Salford Pride, I get to see the hard work and dedication that all the team put into putting on the annual Pink Picnic. Whilst keeping true to the values of what pride means and why it’s needed. Also keeping the event free for all is one and family focussed are the main challenges they successfully face whilst keep loyal to the origins of the Pink Picnic.”

“Salford pride provides amazing opportunities for local lgbtq+ artists to perform on stage. It is now one of Salfords biggest annual events.

Every year attendance grows and now it is recognised as one of the biggest prides in Greater Manchester.

The Pink Picnic deserves to win because of the community vibe the event has and no matter how much it grows, the vibe still remains community focused and open to all. They also deserve to win as a sign of recognition to the people who give their free time to make this happen.”

https://salfordpride.org.uk/

https://twitter.com/salfordprideuk?s=21&t=5krrzkRKQ5X4R3XjYM_lYg

https://m.facebook.com/100064495430676/

Trans pride has grown to an event showcasing the communities it serves and dies so while being run by the communities it serves

This was the return of an in person pride for the first time since 2019 and was a massive show of solidarity and support that trans people are here to be heard and not political inching bags.”

“Trans pride had the biggest turn out ever this year! With attitudes towards trans people so negative at the moment, it’s so important we are visible!”

https://www.pinknews.co.uk/2022/07/16/trans-pride-brighton-gra-sport-conversion-therapy/

https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/trans-pride-returns-today-route-080216174.html

The main stage was joined by trans allies from across Surrey, including the likes of Avril Clark from Trans Radio UK and Hazel Dean, the patron of Pride in Surrey. It served as a clear reminder that they stood proudly alongside their trans siblings, a message more important than ever.

There was no pride this year that felt more welcoming to LGBTQ+ people from all walks of life, and this is the heart of what pride is all about.”

“”This is a fabulous grassroots Pride that has only been going 3 years. They connect with all the local organisations and move around the Surrey area (which is huge) making it accessible for all Surrey residents.

This year their Pride was the biggest yet and was in Camberley. As always it was a totally fabulous event.”

https://www.prideinsurrey.org/

It’s not a celebration for one year, UKBP spotlights key people in the community, works with brands and provides support for the community.”

https://www.metroweekly.com/2022/08/uk-black-pride-breaks-attendance-records/

https://www.gaytimes.co.uk/life/uk-black-pride-2022-celebration-makes-history-as-largest-in-the-world/

Joel has volunteered with a myriad of nonprofits including UK Black Pride, Crisis UK, National Student Pride, Safe Passage International (as a young leader), Albert Kennedy Trust, Sickle Cell Aid Foundation, Mordi Ibe Foundation, and was invited to speak on topical and intersectional issues affecting young LGBT persons with a focus on rising homelessness and Banning Conversion Therapy amongst other issues in the just concluded labour and Conservative party conferences in Birmingham and Liverpool.

In 2022 Joel was attacked by a homophobic Jamaican house mate and became homeless (he got support from Safe passage Intl and was later housed by his lecturer for over a month), this did not stop Joel from volunteering at UK Black pride, Comic Relief, AKT and National Student Pride and more!.

Joel’s story has been featured by Stonewall UK amongst others

Joel is still in unstable Accommodation but continues to give himself off whenever and wherever possible.”

https://twitter.com/MiF_Nigeria/status/1566471086639816710?s=20&t=hz4NRBxo8TsLEqjnhOzg3A

https://metro.co.uk/2022/06/06/asylum-seekers-in-the-uk-how-lgbtq-refugees-prove-their-sexuality-16744541/?ico=more_text_links

“”As Managing Director of Pride in Surrey, Charlie has been the driving force that makes pride possible for the LGBTQ+ community in Surrey. His dedication and commitment to the community is unmatched, criticising sacrificing his time and energy to ensure the local LGBTQ+ have places to feel space, as well as have a voice. Charlie chooses to do this all for no credit, frequently promoting the work of others in the organisation rather than expecting praise for his own.

The Pride Hub, Woking’s own LGBTQ+ safe space and pride shop were Charlie’s vision, and he did whatever it took to ensure it was a success. Since its launch, countless LGBTQ+ people, young and old, have had a space to feel safe and seen.

Nobody is more deserving of this year’s award than Charlie, and his service to the LGBTQ+ community should be recognised.”

https://instagram.com/prideinsurrey?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

https://instagram.com/hubpride?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

https://instagram.com/pride__charlie?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

https://www.getsurrey.co.uk/news/surrey-news/pride-surrey-explains-removed-rainbow-20947361

https://www.getsurrey.co.uk/news/surrey-news/pride-surrey-opens-pop-up-19457060.amp

https://www.facebook.com/PrideInSurrey

“This person deserves to be a winner not only because he founded Eastleigh Pride but because he has tirelessly given up his free time to organise amazing pride events near enough on his own.”

“Michele is part of the Crawley pride team, organising the volunteers on the lead up to the event, during and after. She goes above and beyond getting to know every volunteer and become their friends, making sure they are happy, enjoying themselves, being their authentic selfs and making amazing memories. It’s more than just a “pride weekend” for Michele she is always on the end of the phone for anyone that needs her. She gets stuck in helping with everything she can all through the year. She is an incredible ally & deserves recognition!”

When presented with the specific challenges of creating a cohesive functional group online, the network has thrived and continued to grow.  As our largest hospital site is a Children’s Hospital, we have been told that there is no place to raise awareness of our LGBTQ+ lives to children.  We have challenged this, and will continue to do so.

During February 2022 the network launched a hospital wide photographic portraiture project to raise the profile and intersectional nature of own staff LGBTQ+ community.  These portraits were proudly displayed in our hospitals along with linked information to a person’s profession and their own inspirational stories.  The hope of the project being not only to raise visibility but to provide ‘I can’ role models to our visiting children, families and young people.

In addition to the portraits project, several staff members bravely filmed their personal stories.  This initiative was staff driven and gave people an opportunity to share their lived experience.  Staff were brave and vulnerable but this really connected with colleagues in our organisation.  The project went a long way to start the conversations we were hoping for. We are immensely proud of this.

The network has sought links with our patient experience team to help identify areas of knowledge lacking in the Trust that have prompted concerns or complaints.  With the aim of providing a better experience for our colleagues and patients, we have delivered several training packages including the Trusts first ever LGBTQ+ History Month conference.  One example of a theme arising was the treatment and understanding of Trans patients in our services.  In response to this we identified an external source of staff training and also challenged the Trust in terms of Trans specific policy.  We are now collaborating with the Trust to devise such a policy.  We have helped to identify the health inequalities which exist for LGBTQ+ patients and specifically Trans patients within the organisation and are challenging this to make real change.  We now have a voice at senior meetings and are holding leaders to account and are challenging for better inclusive recruitment and support for LGBTQ+ staff and patients.

The core of our work is to support our staff and in turn create a better experience for our families, children and young people.  We have learnt that having a collaborative approach to problem solving works best to encourage change, and also to work with our wider staff networks who are also likely to be encountering similar problems and barriers!  The network works tirelessly, mostly in a voluntary capacity.  We would like people to know that Pride is more than just joining us to wave a flag in a parade.

Thanks for your consideration.”

https://youtu.be/vWrgs5wnncE

I hope you get time to view.”

https://careers.justeattakeaway.com/global/en/blogarticle/pride-is-empowering-others-to-be-their-true-selves

Most recently, the network advocated for, help draft and communicate the introduction of a new Transgender policy for Bruntwood, the network helped support our People team in ensuring that the language was inclusive and advocated successfully for the inclusion of 20 days paid affirmation leave for colleague who are transitioning – an employee benefit that is rarely seen in the UK.

The LGBTQIA++ Network have also supported Bruntwood in becoming accredited by Manchester Pride’s All Equals Charter, and have been really engaged in supporting Bruntwood take forward the actions and recommendations of the All Equals Charter.  Not only has the network provided a great space for our LGBTQIA++ colleagues to come together, but they have instigated real positive change for all of our colleagues at Bruntwood.”

https://bruntwood.co.uk/blog/bruntwood-accredited-for-their-commitment-to-equality-diversity-and-inclusion/

https://twitter.com/BruntwoodWorks/status/1541692954066030593

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/bruntwood_library-literature-reading-activity-6957366841857961985-6Lde?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/bruntwood_lgbthistorymonth-colleagues-equality-activity-6901468929575710720-nPxk?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/bruntwood_lgbthistorymonth-colleagues-equality-activity-6901468929575710720-nPxk?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/bruntwood_transawarenessweek-nonbinary-inclusion-activity-6998257223898439680-uO78?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop

https://www.instagram.com/bruntwood/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/bruntwood

The club is, in my experience, welcoming and provides a good range of activities.”

“For nearly 50 years the Club has been run by volunteers   throughout the U.K. giving a very low cost membership for a huge range of walking and other activities such as ski-ing ,open to LGBTQ plus and and their friends. This unique club deserves national recognition.”

“This club gave me a new lease of life as I approached my late 40s.  I remember my first hike around the Devil’s Kitchen, Twll Du, in Welsh and, out of breath, over-weight and, increasingly, becoming more isolated, I embarked on a new journey.  10 years later, I am due to start my Mountain Leader training and have now climbed most of Britain’s mountains, the Spanish Picos, the Himalayas, the Serra de Tramantuna range in Mallorca. I’ve cycled the length and breadth of the Outer Hebrides.  I’ve wild camped in the most remote regions in Iceland and about to go on my annual Wintwr trip to the high Arctic. This is all due to one thing and one thing only – GOC.

GOC is a club open to anyone in the LGBT+ community and their friends, family and allies.  The membership costs a few pounds and doesn’t care who you are or what your experience is, you are made to feel very welcome and will develop friendships for life.

It’s demographic is now an ageing one and deserves to receive publicity and attract a whole new crop of adventurers.  The charity is run by volunteers.  It’s approach to getting out there is get out there and the rest we’ll figure out as we go along.  Regardless of age, dis/ability, class, race, gender, there’s a space for you.”

https://www.goc.org.uk/reports/twelve-of-us-gathered-for-the-first-womens-social-in-zoom/

https://instagram.com/gayoutdoorclub?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

https://www.facebook.com/188217311228408/posts/pfbid0byxNLQ3LovsNYFxJzyj9nEHrBuiLEXtaNUcQVTYa6112HPgoGEJghwZZr2ioCDxCl/

– had player (Roz) and coach (Jay) represent the club about their championing inclusion in sports teams on Vulcans podcast (Ep 39)

– worked closely with Leicester LGBT centre to promote and learn how we can improve as a club

– supported and attended Leicester Pride with their own stall on Market Street

– were part of international campaign #YouCanPlay

– pioneers in the league as the first club to challenge the policy around the inclusion of non binary players”

“We started in Sept 21 and the achievements and milestones have been non stop since day one.

We have nearly 50 members with a huge percentage being from the LGBTQiA+ community. We work extremely closely with our local LGBT centre to promote and also learn about how we can improve our clubs for the community.

We have had players feel so much that they can be their authentic selves that they have felt comfortable to change their pronouns. We are the only club in our league to celebrate welcoming all women and non binary players.

We have also fought for equality in our league to allow non binary players to play in official league games which is now undergoing a policy review.

Our coaching team has undergone additional Coaches UK course to understand our members needs more.

We do our bit for the community by providing free sessions to junior community groups and schools with out Dinky Diamonds youth Programme. We also support our local hub when they have special events such as Easter providing Easter treats and activities for disadvantaged families in the surrounding areas of our playing diamond.

We are extremely proud to have been part of Leicester pride on one of the market stalls and being able to support something we are so very passionate about with our local community.

I can’t think of a club more deserving than the Leicester diamonds for all they do the community they have built as a club is something all clubs should be looking to achieve and I am so proud I get to say I’m part of it.”

“The Leicester Diamonds is the only all women (including trans women) and non-binary baseball club in Leicester. Inclusion is at the core of the club, providing LGBTQ+ people an opportunity to play sport whilst being able to be their authentic self. Since starting in September 2021, the club has grown significantly with over 48 members, most being from the LGBTQ+ community. It’s more than a sports club, it’s also a supportive network with members running socials as well, supporting their physical and mental health. You only have to read the quotes from players on their website to see the impact the club has had on so many LGBTQ+ people within one of the most deprived areas in the UK.”

www.instagram.com/leicesterdiamonds

Without the Manchester Villiage Spartans influence on my life I wouldn’t have become the person I am today….I was announced Winner of the Excellence in Diverty Award as Employee of the Year in 2016 and Winner of the Global Equality and Diversity Awards in 2016 with the Lord Noon Award….Many ex and current  Spartans players have become positive role models not just for LGBTQ but for all of Diversity #proudtobeaspartans x”

“The Spartans help open sports to a whole plethora of LGBT+ people who had been out off sport at school, with dedicated new player training sessions to both touch and union rugby. The Spartans have vocally supported our trans community and have trans players, championing trans rights and campaigning against discriminatory rule changes made by rugby’s governing body this year…clearly representing this in the Spartans pride parade this year.”

https://villagespartans.co.uk/

https://www.instagram.com/villagespartans/?hl=en

“”With over 1000 members It brings guys from all backgrounds and ages across the UK together for adventure.

This includes small walks to full weekends away with climbing, cycling, rafting, running and much much more.

There is a real community spirit and the geographical scale of the club means you can meet likeminded people from across the UK. The partnerships with other key LGBT / ally charities is fantastic too (e.g North Face) and gives good visibility to the community.”

https://www.outdoorlads.com/

“”Because they are a fully inclusive LGBTQ+ team giving the chance for everyone to be able to play and enjoy football. They’ve allowed me as a transgender male to play football again and be a part of a team who accepts me for who I am.

They go above and beyond, to allow people to play football with organising matches as well as breaking records with playing the first fully transgender team. This team deserve the recognition of going above and beyond, to change the pathway for LGBTQ+ in football and fighting for our acceptance in sport and everyday life.”

https://www.facebook.com/Trukunitedfc/

https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/transgender-truk-united-dulwich-hamlet-women/bltcdd6d7d4ecbb1547

https://sportsmedialgbt.com/truk-united-fc-set-to-push-trans-inclusive-football-forwards-in-charity-cup-match

https://metro.co.uk/2022/03/31/how-peter-crouch-is-helping-make-history-on-trans-day-of-visibility-16380100/

https://www.kentonline.co.uk/gravesend/news/team-sport-is-for-trans-women-265245/

https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/5050/trans-football-mental-health-community/

“”The Werkroom (Stoke on Trent) is an amazing venue, staff & owners.  They have embraced the need not only for a club but also entertainment in the city.  Up & coming drag artist are given a platform to grow .

Every customer gets the welcoming sense of being a friend from the moment of entering the venue.”

“It has become a great fun and ultimately safe place for the LGBTQ+ to experience nightlife in Stoke-on-Trent. Other venues in the area including a “Lgbt friendly” venue not far from The Werkroom, have been blasted on social media the past year for how unsafe they are. At The Werkroom there’s been no such issue at all.”

https://www.facebook.com/TheWerkroomHanley

“Arch is constantly catering to their customers and making changes to grow and become more attractive. It is constantly investing in its self and giving back to its customers. It is such a welcoming safe place for the locals and because there’s something going on every night it’s nice to know there is somewhere social and chill that you can go and be with your community”

“A venue that opened during the pandemic and persevered to give the community what it needs despite everything that was thrown at them. This venue has flourished and evolved with the ever changing scene, from its start as a restaurant to the venue it is now with events every night and a dedicated stage for performers. It is definitely a for the community by the community venue.”

https://www.archclapham.co.uk/

They are also very interactive with their customers, letting them get involved with themes.”

“Filthy gorgeous is a staple drag event in Manchester, home to some incredible performers who week in week out turn out the party and engage the audience for hours. The audience love it, people travel in from miles to go. It’s the best weekday drag night in Manchester and deserves recognition for its hard work. Different themes every week from princesses, Shrek and fairytales to chav week, samba and 90s.”

“”Filthy Gorgeous is a long running LGBTQ+ club night predominantly aimed at students that has given our community a safe space to be who we are without any discrimination. Since starting, over 6 years ago, every week a lot of work goes into the night with different performances from the Haus of Filth (the regular drag queen hosts of the night) and also regularly getting guest drag performers to host, sometimes giving queens their first chance to perform and help boost their recognition. The Haus of Filth is a diverse house of queens that has changed throughout the years. They are a collection of cis drag queens, females drag queens, queens of colour and, non-binary queens and a trans queen, highlighting that and celebration that there is no single box we must fit into and shouldn’t be held back by stereotypes.

As a club night, they encourage everyone who arrives to dress and present however they like, creating a comfortable space where people aren’t looked at in a judgemental way.

Filthy Gorgeous started as a night for students and young people of the LGBTQ+ community to meet and make like-minded friends as sometime for young people, especially those who have just arrived in a new city to Manchester, it can be intimidating and hard to make new friends similar to you, but Filthy Gorgeous has tried to give people that space and it is why it has grown massive in popularity and have had a few of the same faces coming for years.

It’s a weekly night that people genuinely love and look forward to every week.”

https://www.instagram.com/filthygorgeousmcr/

https://www.fatsoma.com/e/oq67o5pv/filthy-gorgeous-01-03-22-fairy-tale

“This is the friendliest Gay bar I have ever seen, I recently here in oldham from India and was exploring for LGBT spaces neabry when I stumbled accross this bar, the owner is super friendly and made sure that I didnt feel alone or lonely and made many new friends here. This place is like a family to me, where I can meet people, talk, drink and enjoy the shows.”

“Terri Fox and David Morgan have transformed this pub into a beautiful, warming , welcoming, safe and friendly atmosphere.. They hosted and organised Oldham Pride with amazing performances from a variety of entertainment including the very talented Miss Terri Fox herself.. Aldo through the year raising money for charitable events. They also put on fantastic shows the last one being Halloween and are now in full swing rehearsals for their Christmas shows . They fully deserve this award for all they do and have achieved.❤️🏳️‍🌈 ❤️🏳️‍🌈”

https://www.theoldhamtimes.co.uk/news/18606417.pub-week-gay-bar-place-party/

https://everyoneiswelcome.co.uk/event/oldham-pride-2022

“”The Flying Handbag’s motto is ‘Open to All, Closed to Prejudice’ and their zero-tolerance policy has led them to become a safe haven for the community. What makes them stand out from any other venues, is that they are unique; they are as much a social club as they are a late-night venue. Whether it’s a hen party, or members of the LGTBQ+ looking for a safe space to work, they are there for their customers, no matter what the hour. By optimising their food offering, it’s no surprise that they have established themselves as the No.1 night time venue in Blackpool on TripAdvisor. They regularly review their headline acts, drag queen performances, karaoke evenings and popular quiz nights; ensuring that both local and national artists are supported.

As a business, they always seem to focus on giving back to the community, which is why they regularly fundraise for PRIDE, International Aids Day, HORIZON – a local sexual health charity – and they now support STAR – a mental health charity based in Blackpool. Since the Daniel Thwaites takeover, they have also been able to form strong partnerships with the local licensing and police authorities. The Lancashire Police have used The Flying Handbag as an exemplar venue within Blackpool and to continue being a safe space for their visitors, they’ve already implemented their recommendations in the fight against drink spiking.

The success that they have achieved is a testament to their efforts and love for the community.”

“”The Flying Handbag has been established for 28 years in Blackpool and is known throughout the UK. With consistency of a dedicated team and entertainers, the best experience that a customer wants is achieved. This is adapted as times change whilst remaining to provided something different for every age bracket.

Currently number 1 on Trip advisor for nightlife in Blackpool, The Flying Handbag also was awarded The travellers choice award for the past two years following a half a million pound refurbishment to refresh the Venue in 2020.

A safe space for all is provided with a dedicated security team who also provide an exceptional greeting on arrival to the venue making everyone feel at ease from the moment they come to the door.

Food is on offer from the diner with Sunday Lunches being very popular and the introduction of daily specials.

The Venue and staff make everyone feel comfortable and able to enjoy their time here, there is something for everyone.

Supporting charity’s, events are held on a regular basis. The most recent one being for Macmillan Cancer Support where over £1000 was raised.

The Flying Handbag has, and always will be a wonderful place for the LGBTQ+ Community to spend time with friends and to meet new friends along the way.”

https://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwj1gYWv9pT7AhWKbcAKHZiuBHIQFnoFCIgBEAE&url=httpswww.tripadvisor.co.ukAttraction_Review-g186332-d3224751-Reviews-Flying_Handbag-Blackpool_Lancashire_England.html&usg=AOvVaw2Y5H92U3Ur3_Hvs2eIOOyw

2 years award winner of venue of the year at the Proud Scotland Awards. They have been recognised for their warm welcome and friendly team and deserve to have even more people know about this great venue.”

“”I have moved to the City and as a single Gay Man, since my very 1st visit all the staff and regulars are so very welcoming. They have fantastic events throughout each week which allows everyone to engage from Bingo, to Deal or No Deal Games to karaoke which am now confident in myself and within the venue to participate in everything. They are so friendly and family orientated and deserve this award.

They are the best”

“Planet Bar is Edinburgh’s longest running gay bar, and a champion of the LGBTQ+ community in Edinburgh. They provide entertainment, and have a particular focus on promoting drag queens at all stages of their careers, and are sponsors of the Hot Scots, Scotland’s LGBT football team. All of their staff work hard to create a welcoming, safe environment for all members of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as allies, and both promote and actively raise money for Waverley Care, the HIV and Hepatitis C charity in Scotland, aiding its aims by also promoting and de-stigmatising regular sexual health screening. Planet is a wonderful venue, a home from home and community centre for many, not just a bar, and the hard work of the landlord and staff makes the bar well-deserving of being the Venue of the Year.”

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02yYdV3qHWavQPzg8euCZGLLJQ3wXf6B7CtnvLQKGB2iCr1o1GGzVavYD7noskWiDYl&id=100063638572611

https://planetbaredinburgh.co.uk/

“In 2022 there’s still only Vanilla on Saturday nights and SWAGGA events all year round holding space for LGBT+ Black people and people of colour. Our music run in a safe space played by people who look like us. Stacy brings great energy to every event, and makes massive effort to make LGBT+ Black people and people of colour feel like they do actually have a home in the village.”

“Dj Stacey Bee has developed this much needed safe space and unbeatable vibe, which has gone from Strength to strength and created such a beautiful community.. it’s my go to black lgbtq event, hands down”

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CXeYx2bIeG6/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

https://www.instagram.com/p/CSpbzX2j5pu/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

https://www.facebook.com/swaggamanchester

“Despite the challenges of Covid, the first ever FemmeFest was able to launch, and was fantastic. The setting, in the Derbyshire countryside, is perfect for this intimate festival, providing a safe and beautiful location. The first year had a few issues due to external contractors failing to provide elements of the infrastructure they had promised but the organisers worked through this, coming up with their own solutions and taking lessons learnt through to the following year’s festival. The music line-up, the atmosphere and the camping facilities have been great for the first two festivals and the artists booked for the 2023 FemmeFest are amazing. The organisers communicate regularly via an open Facebook Group but also have a Private Group, which those attending can join and provides a safe platform for individuals to engage and feel part of a community before, during and after the festival. There have been frequent on-line polls asking what artists and activities people would like to see and the responses have been taken on-board, as can be evidenced by the line-ups that have been booked. Many of the artists are, themselves, part of the LGBTQI+ community. A wonderful team of volunteers, again from within our community, help the festival to run smoothly, including providing security. I had never been to a festival prior to my first FemmeFest, and would not look to go to a mainstream festival, but will be returning to FemmeFest for my third year in 2023 as I love it, and can’t wait to return. There’s a simple reason why it’s a sell-out for next year already – because it’s FANTASTIC.”

https://outnewsglobal.com/festivals-are-back-lets-take-a-look-at-femme-fest-2021/

Having a venue like this on a strip where it’s the only one of its kind also helps to normalise the very idea of LGBT bars which takes us one step closer to true equality.”

“”The house of Bridgets is Burys first LGBT+ venue, open 7 nights a week providing a safe space for members of the LGBT+ community and its allies.

With Drag performances every night and regular events for the community to engage with this is a must visit part of Bury.

The venues staff work tirelessly to make sure its a safe and welcoming environment for anyone that visits. Challenging discrimination in any form it may take.

The House of Bridget’s played an active role in the local pride events throughout the year. At Bury Pride they partnered with the local youth service and an lgbt+ youth organisation to provide a bespoke youth space, so that lgbt+ young people could celebrate without having to be around adults drinking.

They have hosted the lgbt+ youth group at various points so they can access a specific lgbt+ space.”

“”The House of Bridget (or Bridget’s as it’s most commonly known!) is a small but mighty LGBTQI+ bar based in the centre of Bury.

Being the only queen venue in Bury, it strives to offer something to everyone in the community, hosting Queens from across the North West seven nights a week.

The staff also help to organise and take part in tonnes of charity and community events, such as Bury Pride (which they ran the stage and outside bars for as well as been the after party venue), Youth Clubs for The Proud Trust, and the East Lancs Rainbow Train.

The staff are friendly and accommodating, the Drag Queens are fierce and welcoming, and the regulars make the place worth coming back to every weekend. The owner, Tom, is a 25 year old gay entrepreneur with other venues in the area, and he’s put his heart into making Bridget’s the queer space that others like himself would have deserved growing up.”

www.facebook.com/thehouseofbridget

“They are a female lesbian couple owned bar brand new in the freedom quarter of Leeds . They are providing a great venue and atmosphere to all who venture in

They deserve the nomination”

“Very welcoming with no judgement. Goes above and beyond for every customer, makes sure customers are safe and feel safe. Fabulous caring staff! Amazingly talented drag queens! All round fabulous venue!”

https://www.instagram.com/bridgeinnleeds/

It was the second lockdown, sadly just before lockdown we lost Duane Spencer (a longstanding member of the community) to suicide. I began reminiscing and wanted to share pictures of old nights out on the scene.  When I say “”old”” I mean the early naughties – when many of us still took disposable or digital cameras out with us!  This quickly got people talking and reconnecting, and today has a following of 2031 members.  The Facebook group now serves as more of a Nottingham LGBTQ+ community hub where people can ask questions and find out what’s going on locally for LGBTQ+ people and our allies.

We planned a reunion at NG-ONE, our former LGBT+ venue. The reunion night was a massive success, and with the offer of a free venue and acts we managed to make £6k. We knew we wanted to put this money back into the Nottingham/Nottinghamshire community, but with few places to donate to, and us wanting to actually see the funds impact, we decided to set up our own Charity – The Duane Spencer Trust (operating as The Spencer Trust.) In less than a year, on 25th November 2021, we received confirmation of our charity status.

During our first year we have given funds to The Wolfpack Project – a local service that provides activities to promote positive mental health among people aged 16-35. We have also given funds to The Friends of Marion for “”A Second Chance for a Last Dance”” a queer prom.

We continue to raise funds through our own fundraising activities. 0ur upcoming fundraising events include a Christmas Caberet on 16th December 2022, and a Queer Outdoor Christmas Market on 17th December 2022. We have received corporate sponsorship from leading skincare brand, The Inkey List, and recieved funds from Nottingham Pride and various Challenge Events.

We exist to promote strength, resilience and togetherness in our community. To achieve these these aims, we are now looking at what we can do directly, especially as our volunteer team has expanded. The East Midlands Non-binary Association have recently joined The Spencer Trust and we are working towards establishing a group for families of trans individuals, to provide support and advice.

Everyone involved in The Spencer Trust is a  volunteer.  We have a very skilled and passionate team that have been the driving force for our quick success. We are working with The University of Nottingham to provide volunteer opportunities, particularly with LGBT History Month on the horizon.

Winning this award would be recognition for the hard work and sacrifice of all involved, and it will no doubt be a catalyst for continued success in our second year.”

https://www.facebook.com/TheSpencerTrust

Insta: thespencertrust https://www.nottinghampost.com/whats-on/music-nightlife/nottinghams-lgbtq-clubbing-scene

“”Since 2000 Manchester Lesbian & Gay Chorus now Manchester Proud Chorus has tirelessly promoted the LBGTQI+ community fostering involvement from all within our community. Manchester Proud Chorus (MPC) has every year since 2000 continued to promote the work undertake by The George House Trust educating and empowering people to get tested for HIV+ World AIDS day performance have always been at the very heart of what MPC stands for, respect and informing all that U=U

Manchester Proud Chorus formed 22 years ago with six members to get together to sing in a safe place, now with 80+ members they offer the best environment to become part of a network of individuals promoting the benefits of singing to better peoples mental health.

Manchester Proud Chorus exists for its members, championing equal rights and defending our community from hate crimes.”

https://m.facebook.com/McrProudChorus/

https://stollerhall.com/whats-on/manchester-proud-chorus-together-again/

https://mobile.twitter.com/mcrproudchorus

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Yk3kYRzFz0Q

https://m.youtube.com/channel/UC8qp9mWDyrbEui8qdXt2rmA

‘Derbyshire LGBT improves the health & wellbeing of individuals to enable them to achieve their full potential irrespective of their Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity. We provide support & information to individuals regarding sexual orientation and/or gender identity & deliver health promotion & health education services to LGBT people to improve their physical, mental & emotional health’”

“”Derbyshire LGBT+ celebrates its 40th anniversary next year and has been providing life-changing support since their inception. They were set up in response ot the HIV epidemic and have endured financial hardship and harsh political climates to still ensure that the LGBT+ communities of Derbyshire have someone fighting their corner. They have been subjected to some horrendous vandalism in the past couple of years but have never let this diminish their cause. They provide social support groups for all walks of life and, I personally feel that my life has been changed forever because of them. I was in a very dark place before I reached out to them and now I feel full of life and promise.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, they delivered meals and packages to the lonley and isolated at Christmas. They set up protests against the exclusion of Trans folks from the conversion therapy ban which were very well attended. They offer one-to-one support for those most and need and they help LGBT+ asylum seekers through the asylum process so that they can live without shame in a place that accepts them.

This charity deserves to be recoginsed. They make real difference in a county that is often overlooked, and they bring hope to those deemed unimportant and ‘other’ by mainstream society. I implore you to consider them.”

https://mobile.twitter.com/derbyshirelgbt

https://twitter.com/DeafinitelyW/status/1580306778444959751?s=20&t=utWKVmHRyWAkcMEwU1rVaw

https://www.nhs.uk/services/service-directory/derbyshire-lgbt-plus/N10970567

https://www.derbypride.co.uk/

“A newly formed charity, FWP has fought hard to gain recognition and compensation for forgotten service men and women forced out of military service during the ban that existed up to the early 2000’s. At the forefront of demanding (successfully) a formal investigation and enquiry, uniting long-forgotten and ignored service people and continuing to fight for reinstatement of pensions, medals and lost earnings for a dwindling number of lgbtq veterans (myself included).”

“For their incredible work of offering services to people living with HIV and for increasing HIV awareness. Thanks to George House Trust and the support they provide for their service users people living with HIV are able to feel more confident with their diagnosis. George House Trust have had an incredible year which led to them winning the best charity pride float at Manchester Pride, they used the float to showcase their work of smashing HIV stigma and fighting for a world where HIV holds no one back!”

https://instagram.com/georgehousetrust?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

They aim to make the pool of available parents as wide as possible for the many children in care. There’s an ever increasing need for more LGBTQ+ people to explore both adoption and fostering.”