A powerful new project supporting LGBTQIA+ people in Gateshead has brought people together through storytelling, thanks to funding from the Community Cohesion and Resilience Programme (CCRP).
The project, titled Stories of Strength, was delivered in partnership between Pride Action North and the PLUS group, offering LGBTQIA+ people a safe, inclusive space to share personal experiences, build community connections, and develop resilience through creative storytelling.
Held in Gateshead, the project featured peer-led support sessions and storytelling workshops. Participants explored themes of identity, wellbeing, and mental health, using storytelling to build confidence and reduce isolation. The sessions were designed to create trust, empathy, and cohesion among a diverse group of participants, those who are often underrepresented in community engagement.
The project directly suppoted two of CCRP’s core aims: bringing communities together in areas facing extremism and division, and raising awareness of the lived experiences of marginalised communities.
“Everyone is talking about queer kids right now, but is anyone actually listening? Stories of Strength gave LGBTQIA+ people in Gateshead the space to speak and be heard.”
A standout output from the project is the creation of a digital storytelling booklet and zine, developed with the support of North East based creative Amy Langdown. These resources showcase the voices of participants and are now being shared with stakeholders to promote better understanding of LGBTQIA+ inclusion.
Visit the digital resource hub and access the zine at linktr.ee/storiesofstrength
Funded by Gateshead Council through the Integrated Security Fund (ISF), the CCRP enables voluntary and community organisations to reduce division and strengthen cohesion in at-risk areas.
Through storytelling, Stories of Strength has brought people together, amplified LGBTQIA+ voices, and shown the power of listening in building a more connected, compassionate Gateshead.
Pride Action North, the leading LGBTQIA+ charity in North East England has secured a significant grant of £58,000 from Global’s Make Some Noise. This crucial funding, covering the period from 2025 to 2027, will extend the charity’s successful Link Worker support, directly addressing social isolation and improving mental health and wellbeing among LGBTQIA+ people of all ages.
With this grant, Pride Action North is strengthening capacity to provide tailored, trauma-informed one-to-one support that will especially benefit those in rural and underserved areas, who often face barriers to accessing critical services.
Angela Brudenell, Pride Action North’s Charity Manager said “We’re absolutely delighted to be an official charity of Global’s Make Some Noise for the next two years. We’re determined to ensure that all LGBTQIA+ people receive the support they need, the way they need it and where they need it. This funding will ensure we can increase the capacity of our Link Workers to help even more LGBTQIA+ people across our communities”
Tina, a Link Worker at Pride Action North, embodies our mission. Tina is a qualified youth worker and is deeply passionate about empowering young people and giving them the opportunities they need to thrive. As an LGBTQIA+ ally, Tina understands their needs and keeps us grounded in community and youth work principles, ensuring we deliver the best support to all our beneficiaries.
The success of Pride Action North’s work is exemplified through stories of the people we support and who they are supported by and with this funding we will bring to life the stories of those we support and who they are supported by.
Global’s Make Some Noise raises funds and awareness for small charities nationwide. This support will help Pride Action North continue its vital role in advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights, challenging stigma, and promoting mental wellness and social inclusion throughout the region.
To find out more about our work and to access support from Pride Action North explore www.prideactionnorth.org.uk and follow us across social media @PrideActionNorth.
Pride Action North (PAN) are set to host their second Progression Ball and Awards 2025, sponsored by Newcastle Building Society on Friday 7th February 2025 which marks the beginning of LGBT+ History Month in recognition of the work being carried out by organisations and individuals to make the North East a more inclusive, diverse and accepting place for all.
Following the roaring success of the 2024 evening, Pride Action Northare proud to deliver this event jointly with ReportOUT, a leading global human rights charity, dedicated to protecting the rights of sexual and gender minorities in the UK and worldwide.
Together, both organisations are committed to creating a safer, more inclusive communities locally and globally for LGBTQIA+ people. Through grassroots projects, education and collaboration with other organisations we work to address community needs and amplify the voices and experiences if individuals.
The event will be held at the Grand Hotel Gosforth Park and include a night of entertainment, a three-course meal, auction, performances, raffles, games galore and hear inspirational stories from a range of LGBTQIA+ people as well as human rights advocates dedicated to advancing inclusivity and making the world a more welcoming place.
To make the night even more enjoyable, the theme is Pride Prom – offering guests the chance to freely express themselves, especially since so many LGBTQIA+ people may not have felt comfortable attending prom or had the opportunity to experience it because of their gender or sexual orientation.
Darren Irvine-Duffy, Pride Action North Chair, said: “We are extremely excited to launch the second annual Progression Ball and Awards which celebrates the amazing achievements of LGBTQIA+ people and communities across the North.”
“The Progression Ball is a testament to how far we’ve come as a charity, and we’re pulling out all the stops to make it an unforgettable event for everyone.
It’s the perfect chance to bring LGBTQIA+ communities closer together and embody our slogan ‘together we are stronger.’”
“This year, we are thrilled to partner with ReportOUT, a leading charity established in 2019, dedicated to protecting the human rights of sexual and gender minorities in the UK and globally.
ReportOUT is committed to advancing the lives of sexual and gender minorities through fearless advocacy, combining international development principles with human rights frameworks. Aligned with Agenda 2030’s pledge to leave no one behind, they ensure these communities are central to their mission.
ReportOUT’s work includes eliminating human rights infringements, conducting research, raising awareness, educating the public, monitoring abuses, engaging in international advocacy, and advising governments.
This partnership reflects our shared vision of empowering sexual and gender minorities and driving meaningful change.”
Drew Dalton, Chair of ReportOUT, said: “In light of the global shift to the right, with populist leaders taking control and the rollback of EDI and LGBTQ+ rights across some parts of the word, it has never been more important to uplift those who are fighting to make the world fairer. Being partners in this event and being the only LGBTQ+ human rights organisation outside of London, we get to celebrate some truly inspirational local people and their work to advance LGBTQ+ rights as a member of the community, or as an ally.”
The evening will also include an awards ceremony to recognise the amazing achievements in promoting and supporting local and global communities as well as individual achievements in the following categories;
- Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Newcastle Building Society;
- Youth Achievement Award, sponsored by Newcastle College;
- Third Sector Award, sponsored by Ability Consultants;
- Ally Award, sponsored by Square One Law and the;
- Business Award, sponsored by Northumbrian Water.
Darren said: “We have firsthand experience of the incredible work being done to support LGBTQIA+ communities across the North East. We’re excited to share these inspiring stories with a broader audience and to celebrate those who go above and beyond to ensure everyone feels accepted for who they truly are.”
“Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is central to our Purpose at the Society. As an inclusive organisation, we’re committed to creating a ‘Place to Be You’ for our colleagues, members, and in our approach to local communities. We’re proud to be involved in this year’s Northern Pride March and support the Newcastle Frontrunners LGBT 5K race through sponsorship and volunteering
“We stand in solidarity with our colleagues and members who identify as LGBTQ+ to remember the important history of Pride and continue to fight for inclusion and acceptance for all.”
Ledine Mitchelson, from Ability Consultants, said, “At Ability Consultants, we strongly believe in the transformative impact of diversity and inclusion. We are thrilled to support this event once again, as it aligns with our values and contributes to building a more equitable world for everyone.
“It is a privilege to be part of this occasion and to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community on their journey toward equality and acceptance. Together, we can create a future where diversity is celebrated, and every individual is valued for who they truly are.”
To find out more information, visit: www.prideactionnorth.org.uk/awards
Pride Action North, the leading LGBTQIA+ charity in the North East, is preparing for a leadership evolution as part of its ongoing commitment to empower LGBTQIA+ communities to thrive. Darren Irvine-Duffy, a founding member and Chair of the Board of Trustees since 2020, will step down in Spring 2025, marking the culmination of a remarkable tenure that has transformed the organisation.
As a founding member of Pride Action North, Darren has been instrumental in shaping the charity’s identity, mission, and impact. His leadership since 2020 has guided the organisation through significant milestones, including the transition from Northumberland Pride to Pride Action North, a rebranding that expanded the charity’s scope to better serve LGBTQIA+ people across the North.
Reflecting on his time as Chair, Darren said:
“Being part of Pride Action North from its very beginning and serving as Chair since 2020 has been one of the most fulfilling opportunities of my life. I am incredibly proud of how far we’ve come, particularly in becoming the leading LGBTQIA+ charity in the region. I know Stephen, Drew, and the rest of the board will continue this incredible work, ensuring that every LGBTQIA+ person in across the North has the opportunity to thrive.”
From 1 May 2025, Stephen Corpe will take on the role of Chair of the Board of Trustees. Stephen brings a wealth of expertise in governance and strategic leadership and will be joined by Drew Dalton, who assumed the position of Deputy Chair on 5 December 2024. Drew, a prominent advocate and global leader within LGBTQIA+ spaces, will bring strong insight and energy to the charity’s strategic goals.
Together, Stephen and Drew will lead the board in continuing to deliver Pride Action North’s ambitious Three-Year Strategy: 2024–2027, which ensures LGBTQIA+ people across the North are supported to thrive in inclusive, supportive, and empowering environments.
Pride Action North’s Three-Year Strategy: 2024–2027 outlines a roadmap for continued growth, innovation, and advocacy. The strategy emphasises:
- Expanding support for marginalised LGBTQIA+ groups.
- Educating the public and raising awareness about the challenges LGBTQIA+ people face.
- Strengthening partnerships to deliver innovative, collaborative solutions.
- Providing inclusive spaces that foster connection, celebration, and empowerment.
As the organisation’s leadership evolves, Pride Action North remains steadfast in its mission to support LGBTQIA+ people to thrive, reinforcing its role as a driving force for inclusion and equity across the North.
For more information about Pride Action North’s mission, programmes, and ways to get involved, visit www.prideactionnorth.org.uk.
Pride Action North and ReportOUT are thrilled to announce the opening of nominations for the highly anticipated 2025 Progression Ball and Awards, proudly sponsored by Newcastle Building Society.
The 2025 event will take place on Friday, February 7, 2025, at the stunning Grand Hotel Gosforth Park during LGBT+ History Month. With the theme “Pride Prom,” this year’s celebration promises an unforgettable evening of entertainment, recognition, and celebration of the progress made within LGBTQIA+ communities across the North East and beyond.
The night will feature a three-course meal, a lively auction, raffles, and games, alongside captivating performances and inspirational stories from LGBTQIA+ people and our allies. The evening will run from 7:00 pm to midnight and is set to bring together allies, advocates, and changemakers for a shared mission: creating a more inclusive world for all.
Celebrate Outstanding Achievements
The Progression Ball and Awards will shine a spotlight on the incredible individuals, organisations, and businesses making a positive difference in and for LGBTQIA+ communities. This year, we invite nominations for the following categories:
- Lifetime Achievement Award (Sponsored by Newcastle Building Society)
- Business Award
- Third Sector Award (Sponsored by Newcastle College)
- Youth Achievement Award
- Ally Award (Sponsored by SQUARE ONE)
Submit Your Nominations Today
Do you know someone who deserves recognition for their work in championing equality, equity, inclusivity, and diversity? Nominations are open now! Visit our website to nominate an inspiring individual, organisation, or business.
Each nomination requires a brief statement (max 300 words) explaining the nominee’s contributions, along with supporting materials, such as articles or videos, to showcase their impact. Please note: self-nominations for individuals are not accepted.
Book Your Table
Tickets for the event are now available! Celebrate in style with friends or colleagues by booking a table for 10 at just £780.
Join Us in Making History
This event is a testament to our ongoing commitment to fostering inclusive and safer communities locally and globally. By celebrating achievements and raising funds, we aim to continue addressing community needs, amplifying voices, and building a brighter future for all.
Limited sponsorship opportunities remain, for more information, contact Ledine at ledine@prideactionnorth.org.uk.
Together, let’s make the 2025 Progression Ball and Awards an unforgettable celebration of progress, resilience, and pride.
Ashington Pride Picnic, held on Saturday, September 7th 2024, at Hirst Park, was a huge success, uniting the community in a celebration of diversity and inclusivity. Building on the success of last year’s event, the Ashington Town Council worked alongside Pride Action North and Northumberland Communities Together to offer a day of family-friendly activities and entertainment.
A spokesperson for Pride Action North said, “Pride is crucial vehicle to bring LGBTQIA+ people together to celebrate community and have the opportunity to meet, learn and take part in activities that matter to them. We’re proud to have partnered with Ashington Town Council to bring pride alive for Ashington and look forward to making sure all LGBTQIA+ people have the support they need to thrive”
The event kicked off with an official opening by Ashington Civic Head Cllr Caroline Ball, who welcomed the first performers from Gladwin’s Ballet and Stage School, setting the stage for an energetic and exciting day.
Throughout the event, attendees were treated to a variety of performances. Highlights included routines from Gladwin’s Ballet and Stage Schools, performances from MX drag Winner 2025 Bella B Campbell, Velvet Snatch, Gloria Love, and a soulful performances by The Future is Queer singer Michael T Olgivlie. BREAK.NE’s brought along interactive breakdancing workshops, a big hit with children and young people, adding a fresh and dynamic element to the day. Thanks to Graeme from Ashington Panto Group for providing expert PA services,
In addition to the entertainment, a wide variety of of organisations offered information and creative activities. Groups like Mortal Fools, Curious Arts, Northumberland Wildlife Trust, Pride Action North, YMCA Northumberland, Full Circle Food Project (who also provided delicious free cupcakes), Unison, GMB, Escape Family Support, Northumberland Domestic Advice Service, Northumberland Community Safety Team, Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, and Northumberland Community Bank were all in attendance, enriching the event with their resources and activities enjoyed by local families.
Koast Radio kept the atmosphere alive with live broadcasts throughout the day. Families enjoyed complimentary refreshments such as tea, coffee, cupcakes, and candy floss, while a variety of stalls offered items for browsing, with a standout display of model trucks capturing many visitors’ attention.
The event’s success was due to the hard work of many, including Ashington Town Council’s Mark and Ryan, Pride Action North’s Angela and August along with Northumberland County Council staff, who managed setup and clean-up. Photographers Haydn and Roy captured the day’s highlights, preserving LGBTQIA+ culture and impact.
One attendee shared, “Really grateful to the organisers of this fantastic and important event. It’s been full of joy, colour, and smiles, just like the LGBT community! Really thoughtfully organised, it was great to see so many community organisations involved, showing how welcoming and inclusive our town is. Absolutely loved today—thank you to everyone involved! Can’t wait for next year!”
The Ashington Pride Picnic was more than just a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community; it demonstrated the town’s dedication to inclusivity and diversity and Pride Action North’s commitment to partnership working and resource sharing. As the event grows each year, it continues to exemplify Ashington’s welcoming spirit and the strength of community collaboration.
Pride Action North was proud to be part of this event, thanks to funding received from the Northumberland Inclusive Economy Community Partnership (NIECP), where Northumberland County Council is the Lead Accountable Body. Our project, Roaming Roots, is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with the North East Combined Authority as the Lead Authority.
This weekend, Newcastle will be full of colour, joy, and unity as Pride in the City, delivered by Northern Pride, takes over with the powerful theme “Unapologetically Visible.” This is more than just a festival; it is a testament to the resilience the LGBTQIA+ community in the North East and beyond.
Pride in the City offers a space where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can feel seen, heard, and celebrated. It’s a vibrant affirmation of the city’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, showcasing that Newcastle is a place where everyone can be unapologetically visible.
Pride events serve as powerful platforms for LGBTQIA+ people. They raise awareness about the ongoing struggles faced by our community, including discrimination, inequality, and violence. By marching through Newcastle and participating in various activities, you advocate for a world where everyone is treated with respect and dignity, something which many in our community and in particular Trans and Non-Binary people have not had.
Darren Irvine-Duffy, Chair at Pride Action North, took us back to February 2017 when an article appeared in the Northumberland Gazette, titled Facebook group set up for county’s LGBT community’ which was a the cornerstone in the development to Northumberland Pride now Pride Action North.
Darren highlighted the influential role of Lorna Stewart-Hook, stating, “Lorna’s words and activism were the cornerstone of bringing Pride to Northumberland. While there were a few LGBT groups in Northumberland at the time, they were scarce. Lorna recognised the crucial need for a safe space where LGBT people could have meaningful conversations.”
This vision led Lorna to attend Newcastle Pride in July 2017, representing her work at HMP Northumberland and expressing her aspiration for Northumberland to have its own pride event. Northumberland Pride was born on that very day, born out of participation in the Newcastle Pride parade in 2017.
Pride in the City fosters a sense of community and belonging. It brings together individuals from all walks of life to support one another, share their stories, and build connections. The solidarity pride provides is crucial in combating feelings of isolation and marginalisation that many LGBTQIA+ people experience and that Pride Action North staff and volunteers support everyday.
Pride is also a time to reflect on the history of the LGBTQIA+ rights movement and honour those who have fought tirelessly for equality. It celebrates the progress made while acknowledging the work that still needs to be done. This historical context is essential in understanding the significance of Pride events today and whilst pride means something different to everyone, it’s roots are in protest.
Pride Action North are proud to see Pride in the City and charity Northern Pride delivering this weekend’s events across Newcastle. As a fellow LGBTQIA+ non-profit in the heart of the city, we understand the importance of these events and the impact they have on our community.
This weekend also features other exciting Pride events in Newcastle. At One Strawberry Lane, join the Community Jam led by the LGBT+ Northern Social Group and Be Trans Support and Community. There’s also Our Pride Festival led by Sister Shack which offers another fantastic opportunity to celebrate and connect.
Beyond the festival itself, Pride Action North engages in year-round activities that support LGBTQIA+ people across Northumberland and Tyne and Wear. We work tirelessly to support LGBTQIA+ people in the region, providing resources, education, events and support services. Our ongoing work helps create a safer and more accepting environment for all. If you live, work or socialise in Northumberland and Tyne and Wear and need support, you can complete a simple referral form at our website and our staff will be in touch.
Darren emphasised, “The theme of this year’s Newcastle Pride is Unapologetically Visible. To my past and present colleagues at Pride Action North, and to those who have tirelessly worked to bring activism, advocacy, and support services to our community, we are unapologetically visible.”
This weekend, as Newcastle comes alive with the spirit of Pride, be unapologetically visible because #TogetherWeAreStronger.
Pride Action North are thrilled to announce that we have been awarded a £5,000 grant from the The Newcastle Building Society Community Fund at the Community Foundation serving Tyne & Wear and Northumberland to enhance our support services for the LGBTQIA+ community in Northumberland and Tyne and Wear.
This generous grant will enable Pride Action North to provide essential financial support and advocacy to our service users, addressing pressing issues such as benefits entitlements, budgeting, debt management, and food and heat poverty. Our team of dedicated link workers will receive specialised training to deliver this much-needed support directly, empowering LGBTQIA+ people to navigate financial challenges more effectively.
Angela Brudenell, Charity Manager of Pride Action North, expressed her gratitude and excitement about the new initiative:
“We are incredibly grateful to the Community Foundation for their generous support. This grant will make a significant difference in the lives of many LGBTQIA+ people who are facing financial hardship. By providing this additional support and upskilling of our workers, we can ensure that our service users receive the help they need from trusted professionals who understand their unique circumstances. This funding will allow us to create a more holistic support system, helping our community members not only survive but thrive.”
The financial project will run as a pilot for six months, during which Pride Action North aims to provide additional hours in support. Our goal is to improve the financial well-being of our communities, offering a lifeline to those struggling with financial instability.
Pride Action North has a longstanding commitment to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, offering a wide range of services including mental health and wellbeing interventions, support for victims of domestic and sexual violence, and community engagement programmes. This new funding is a crucial addition to our comprehensive support system, ensuring that our community’s needs are met holistically.
For more information about Pride Action North and our services, please visit www.prideactionnorth.org.uk.
The Newcastle Building Society Community Fund, at the Community Foundation serving Tyne & Wear and Northumberland, provides grants to local charities across the North East, Cumbria, and North Yorkshire. You can find out more at https://www.newcastle.co.uk/powering-communities/community-grants.
The Community Foundation grows giving and philanthropy, enabling people and businesses to support vital causes across North East England. They combine their knowledge and reach with donors’ generosity to back local charities and community organisations making a lasting difference. Find out more about their work at https://www.communityfoundation.org.uk.
Pride Action North are thrilled to announce that our project, “Supporting Resilient Services for LGBTQIA+ People in Newcastle,” has secured funding from the National Lottery Awards for All England. This support will enhance our services, providing essential specialist support to LGBTQIA+ young people 11-25 in Newcastle and surrounding areas.
Our project will recruit a new LGBTQIA+ Link Worker to reduce waiting times, ensuring timely access to support. We focus on personalised, holistic support that fosters belonging, acceptance, and empowerment. many young people who access our services face multiple challenges, especially those with intersectional identities such as neurodiversity, families on a low income and are facing and mental health and wellbeing issues.
Our holistic approach includes facilitating access to community resources, mental health services, and social support networks. This reduces feelings of isolation and improves mental well-being, empowering young people to face their challenges confidently. Our project builds on other successful programmes, addressing gaps left by reduced support from other organisations and maintaining collaborating with educators, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders at the forefront of our approach in order to create a robust support network around LGBTQIA+ young people in our region.
Darren Irvine-Duffy, Chair of Pride Action North, expressed his gratitude: “We are incredibly thankful to National Lottery players for making this funding possible. Their support is vital in helping us provide the necessary resources and support to LGBTQIA+ young people in our community. This funding marks another significant milestone in Pride Action North’s journey and commitment to deliver rural and urban equity for LGBTQIA+ people across the North.”
For more information about our project and how you can get involved in our work, please visit our website at www.prideactionnorth.org.uk or contact us at support@prideactionnorth.org.uk.
Ashington Town Council and Pride Action North have joined forces to bring a vibrant and inclusive Ashington Pride Picnic to our local communities this summer. Building on the success of last year’s event, this collaboration aims to create an even more memorable experience for LGBTQIA+ people and their families.
Last year’s Pride Picnic was a great success, was diverse and fostered a sense of unity and celebration. Inspired by this, Ashington Town Council and Pride Action North are pooling their resources and expertise to ensure the 2024 picnic has an even greater impact.
The Pride Picnic will take place on September 7, 2024, at Hirst Park, from 10 AM to 2 PM. This event promises to be a day filled with activities for all the family, offering a unique opportunity for LGBTQIA+ people and their families to come together in a safe and welcoming environment.
Angela Brudenell, Pride Action North’s Charity Manager said “After an incredibly positive pride picnic last year we felt it was vital to work with Ashington Town Council to bring our community an event that celebrates local LGBTQIA+ people in the heart of the town.”
Pride Action North are proud to contribute to this event as a result of funding received from the Northumberland Inclusive Economy Community Partnership (NIECP), where Northumberland County Council is the Lead Accountable Body for the funding. Our project, Roaming Roots, is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with the North East Combined Authority as the Lead Authority.
Sharon Parmley, Ashington Town Council’s Communication and Engagement Officer said “”We’re thrilled to partner with Pride Action North for the 2024 Ashington Pride Picnic. This event is a testament to our commitment to diversity and inclusion in our community. Building on last year’s success, we’re creating an even more vibrant and welcoming space for LGBTQIA+ people and their families to celebrate. We invite everyone to join us on September 7th at Hirst Park for a day of unity, fun, and pride.”
Organisers are also calling for volunteers and participants to get involved in making this event a success. Those interested in contributing such as hosting a stall or activity can reach out to Pride Action North at support@prideactionnorth.org.uk or Ashington Town Council at sharon.parmley@ashingtontowncouncil.gov.uk.
Mark your calendars and join the celebration at the Ashington Pride Picnic on 7th September 2024.