LGBT+ History Month is now truly underway and one Bedford charity is looking to make a difference for those in the local LGBTQ+ community.
This year’s LGBT+ History Month, which in the UK is in February each year, is honing in on the effect of LGBTQ+ communities in healthcare throughout history and today.
Local charity, Q:alliance, provides support, information and representation to LGBTQ+ youth communities in Bedford and to both young people and adults in Milton Keynes.
Funded by the Harpur Trust, Q:alliance runs a weekly youth group for 13-19-year-olds, and provides outreach activities to several schools across Bedford Borough.
The weekly session plays a role in the charity’s ongoing commitment to offer a safe and supportive space for young people who are a part of the LGBT+ community in Bedford.
With its aim of building a sense of belonging and empowerment for Bedford’s LGBTQ+ population, Q:alliance offers a multitude of activities and resources.
Most crucially, they say they want to give people the chance to have discussions with others in a similar position to them, creating an open environment that allows for connections to be built and diversity to be celebrated.
“We believe that providing a dedicated space for LGBTQ+ young people in Bedford is essential to promote understanding, resilience and encourage young people’s engagement with the wider community,” said Jennifer Hill, Q:alliance chief executive officer.
“We also wish to increase the variety and value of the support young people can access.
“As we celebrate LGBT+ History Month, we are excited to welcome a new Youth Support Worker who will contribute to the growth and well-being of our local LGBTQ+ youth community.” She added.
Recently, ‘youth representatives’ of the organisation were asked about their feelings on the charity and how their experiences have been so far.
One said, “I feel like I have an outlet to safely express myself, and can have meaningful discussions with other LGBTQ+ people”.
The charity says it hopes to become an important fixture in the Bedford LGBTQ+ community, supportive of individuals of all ages through its various programmes and initiatives to promote understanding, acceptance, and equity.
To find out more about Q:alliance and their work in Bedford Borough, head to their website*.
*Please note: The Q:alliance website is currently being refreshed and should be live from 17 February onwards.
