GM LGBTQIA+ Community Network Newsletter
Tuesday, 3rd June 2025Read the weekly newsletter from Canal St Manchester:
https://canal-st.co.uk/?na=v&nk=13316-ff801782ef&id=126
LGBTQ+ Weekly Bulletin from Manchester Evening News
https://newsletters.e.reachplc.com/fmjBVvI7I4jQh4NAu8hfnn/RjiRkXMfacmIPrkVmqvV/HB6pNJ4nU6Z5aa_m_9_3/yn7HXkM7cf1tiasfyFoL/bU6r-COD_VVvGyxFPAs7/PIbWck1wUEjLjiBAn4lM/ccl_/dsJW.php?ID=0F3cdOc5
Stonewall: Quarterly Newsletter – Spring 2025
https://mailchi.mp/stonewall/your-quarterly-newsletter-winter-655835?e=78e7d82d93
Liverpool City Region LCR Pride Foundation Newsletter
Registrations Open for March with Pride 2025 – Saturday 26th July
https://mailchi.mp/lcrpride.co.uk/register-to-march-with-pride-2025?e=1da7a15a8b
Consortium: For Stronger LGBT+ Communities
Funding News: https://mailchi.mp/48f1b3694367/funding-news-jun23-10898893?e=4ef77ba796
Sector News: https://mailchi.mp/37309f8e2fbb/apr25-10898669?e=4ef77ba796
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) Asset Recovery Incentivisation Scheme (ARIS)
The GMP ARIS funding scheme, which paused last year, will resume from 9th June 2025. New guidelines have been introduced to streamline the process, ensuring greater accessibility and efficiency.
There will be two application windows per year. The next application window opens on 9 June 2025 and closes on 11 July 2025. If you work for a charity or a nonprofit organisation and would like to make an application or know an organisation that would, please ensure applications are made before the closing date on 11 July 2025.
Please note that all applications must be forwarded to [email protected]
Stockport Pride Parade – Sunday 1st June meeting 11.30am
Setting off 12pm, They will be meeting on the Underbanks in Stockport Town centre, on the pedestrianised area between Robinsons and the bottom of Mealhouse Brow.
The parade will be for walkers, wheelchair users and mobility scooters only. Other vehicles will not be permitted.
All of those on the parade should be dressed appropriately.
Stockport Pride – Sunday 1st June, Stage and Stalls
Stockport’s Historic Market Place 11am to 7pm
Quiet Space and Family Space – Inside Museum noon to 3:45pm The Martyn Hett Stage will be compared by Vegan Queens. BSL interpreters will be on stage throughout the day.
11:00 DJ Phil “Cee”
12:55 Queen Bayard
13:45 Laura and the Lesbians
14:35 Bad Heritage
15:25 Ailsa McPhee – The Daily Dance
16:15 Sister Mary
17:05 Gay Gordons Manchester
17:55 Nathaniel J Hall
18:20 Nørskov
Official Opening Speech by Jay Crawford from Sparkle. Speakers from the local LGBTQ+ community throughout the day,
You can also find lists of performers and stall holders, as well as a map of the parade route, and more, on their website at https://www.stockportpride.co.uk/
Didsbury Pride Fundraising Bingo and Disco
Sat 7th June 2025 7:00 PM – Midnight
Join Didsbury Pride for a fun and fabulous evening of BINGO and DISCO.
Hosted by Michael Pollard and guest D.J.
Doors open from 7pm, with eyes down at 8pm. Lots of fun prizes to be won!
Disco from 9pm playing all your fave PRIDE tracks, so start ironing your glad rags you beautiful people!
Advance tickets via link below for entrance and one free drink £10.00
LOCATION
St James & Emmanuel Parish Centre, M20 6TR
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/stjamesandemmanuel
Imperial War Museum North: LGBTQ+ Trail – Audience test event with Free Lunch
IWM are developing a new trail, Refracted Histories: Exploring LGBTQ+ stories in times of conflict. This offer will be launched in 2025 to coincide with the 25th anniversary of the Lifting of the LGBT Ban in the armed forces.
Each object in the trail demonstrates the courage and resilience of key historical figures and lesser-known heroes from the LGBTQ+ community. Just as light refracts through water to form a rainbow, the trail reveals captivating new narratives that live within IWMs collection. These powerful and inspiring stories celebrate those who stood strong in the face of adversity and honour the remarkable contributions of the LGBTQ+ community.
They would like to invite you test out the self-led activity and give them some feedback to help shape the offer.
Saturday 7th June 2025 – IWM North
11.00: Arrive and test out the trail around the museum
12.00: Lunch and feedback session in the Liebskind Learning Room
13.00: Depart
If you would like to book a place at the test event, please email [email protected] (Oli Jones, Producer, IWM) with your name and any dietary requirements. Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis.
Bury Pride – Saturday 7th June 2025, they’d love to have you involved this year.
If you’re interested in taking part whether through a stall, joining the parade, or supporting in any other way, just let them know, and they’ll make sure to send over all the relevant details.
George House Trust celebrates its 40th anniversary.
During the year, they will be sharing stories celebrating the incredible work of George House Trust and the amazing people who have worked tirelessly to help them towards their mission of a world where HIV holds no one back.
Over the year they will be keeping you informed on events and news and letting you know how you can be involved and show your support for people living with HIV. There are lots of ways to get involved and a great way to start is by visiting their exhibition.
ACTING UP! 40 Years of HIV Activism
They are thrilled to share ACTING UP! 40 Years of HIV Activism, their exciting new exhibition at Manchester Central Library that celebrates Greater Manchester’s history of HIV activism.
The exhibition is free and open to the public, it contains rare archival materials, personal testimonies, and film and offers an in-depth look at the efforts of individuals and organisations that have shaped the region’s HIV activist history. It spans 40 years of George House Trust and HIV activism, starting with the creation of AIDSline in 1985.
Don’t miss out! Visit the exhibition at the Manchester Central Library, until December 2025.
It is through your support, hard work and dedication that George House Trust has been recognised for the difference it makes to people living with HIV. They couldn’t do this without you, so thank you for helping them to make sure HIV holds no one back.
Find out more about the exhibition:
https://ght.org.uk/hiv-activism/history
Out In The City – Celebrating its 20th Anniversary.
From a small lunch club formed in 2005 meeting in Taurus Bar on Canal Street (and supported by Age UK Manchester) they are now a self-organised group celebrating our 20th anniversary.
They are holding a 20th Anniversary Party on Thursday, 19 June from 2.00pm to 4.00pm at Cross Street Chapel, 29 Cross Street, Manchester M2 1NL.
They will Celebrate Ageing and Challenge Ageism with great entertainment from Jennifer, Mindy, Pauline and the boys from Wolf. Buffet and raffle. RSVP for catering purposes.
Tony Openshaw [email protected]
LGBTQ+ Manchester Walking Tour
Meeting at the Monument to Vimto on Sackville Street, M1 3BU
(just near the railway bridge (Look for the giant bottle!)
Its £10pp (Card or cash – Pay at the end of the tour)
To Book – Contact Josh either via email: [email protected] / or EventBrite
Confirmed dates:
June (All 3pm-5pm): 7th, 8th
July (All 3pm-5pm): 19th, 26th
Special ‘Pride as a PROTEST!’ LGBT+ tours:
August (3pm-5pm): 16th, 17th
August (6pm-8pm): 19th, 20th
So, what is an LGBTQ+ Tour of Manchester….
You get to discover the history of Manchester’s Gay Village on a fun, informative walking tour.
Explore iconic landmarks, hidden street art, and legendary pubs, while learning about Manchester’s LGBT+ heroes and trailblazers—from Victorian drag balls through to RuPaul stars.
Led by Josh, an MA graduate of Manchester’s LGBT+ history, the tour is perfect for visitors and locals alike as well as a great way to meet like-minded people whilst celebrating our city’s Queer culture.
For info on future tours, see: https://www.freemanchesterwalkingtours.com/lgbtmanchesterwalkingtour
Todmorden Queer Variety Cabaret, Sat 7 Jun 2025, 8:00pm, Tod Community College.
The LGBTQ+ and allies’ community of the Calderdale Valley invite you to enjoy a cornucopia of diverse acts, including: comedy, drag, music, spoken-word and more. There’ll be a licensed bar and the venue is fully accessible for all. Come dressed in your best cabaret style outfits and be prepared for some Camp delights !!!.
This event is suitable for over 18s only. Tickets £8 advance (concessions £6) from TicketSource https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/cabaretintod/t-jzaxzvo or £10 on the door (no concessions).
The Gay Gordons Manchester will be putting the slap on, clacking their heels and presenting their very own drag cabaret show. It will be hosted by the fabulous Joshua Neary at Centre Stage MCR on the 26th of June from 9.00pm to raise money for the LGBTQ foundation.
Save The Date, put it in your diary, and enjoy a great night and raise money for a brilliant charity in the process.
https://www.gay-gordons-manchester.co.uk/
George House Trust: Drag Ball 2025
The George House Trust Drag Ball is back for 2025 sponsored by the amazing team at BedHead
This year they’re celebrating a special milestone – the 40th Anniversary of George House Trust!
They are thrilled to invite you to our annual Drag Ball extravaganza, at the stunning Diecast on the 2nd October!
Prepare to be dazzled by an extraordinary lineup of Manchester’s top drag performers and queer artists, all in celebration of four decades of activism, support, and progress.
All proceeds from The Drag Ball will help them continue to create a world where HIV holds no one back.
Tables are first come, first served and will sell out fast, so make sure to buy yours now so you don’t miss their prestigious event.
GET YOUR EARLY BIRD TICKETS NOW: https://crm.ght.org.uk/civicrm/event/info?reset=1&id=3001
For more information, or for corporate packages and tables please contact [email protected]
The Alternative: Manchester’s first LGBTQ+ run wellbeing studio – a safe and welcoming space for women and queer people to prioritise their health, healing and growth. They put mental wellbeing front and centre, with the knowledge that your fitness journey isn’t happening in a vacuum.
On a mission to help people feel at home in their bodies, they offer Personal Training, Small Group Training, Sports Massage, Injury Rehabilitation and Classes. They are also one of the only places in the UK to deliver a Menstrual Coaching service, which supports people with functional hormone health and their cycles.
If you’re looking for a fresh approach, relaxed environment and trainers who ‘get it’ – you’ve found the right place https://www.thealternativemcr.com/
FORWARD CIC – Improving the wellbeing of Stockport’s LGBTQIA+ community. Follow on social media
https://www.facebook.com/ForwardLGBT
https://www.instagram.com/forward_stockport/
Your Manchester: Studio Hire
Whether you’re a theatre company or dance school looking for rehearsal space, a video podcaster looking for a filming space, or other artist and creative, our space can be adapted to suit your needs.
Located 5 minutes walk from Manchester Piccadilly Train Station, we’re centrally located with parking right outside the door.
The studio is 427 sq ft, with lots of natural light if that’s what you need. They’ve also got 360 degree blackout curtains for creating a totally blank space.
The studio is fully accessible, with a lift available for loads ins. You’d have access to a shared kitchen, toilets and shower.
Rates start from £30 p/hour and you can hire their studio for an hour, a full day, or even block bookings for recurring classes/rehearsals.
For more details and see images: https://yourmcr.com/studio-hire
The Rainbow Lottery is the UK’s first weekly lottery that raises money for the LGBTQ+ community. Their hope is to make a difference to our over 100 good causes across the country, so they can carry on their vital work – which helps us all.
For more info: www.rainbowlottery.co.uk To start supporting causes in OUR community purchase your ticket here:
https://www.rainbowlottery.co.uk/referral/1754044334/1961609853
Jobs / Board Member Opportunities / Volunteering:
HOME Mcr – Head of Artist Development.
https://homemcr.org/pQEwVcd/head-of-artist-development
Withington Pride: Sports Day Producer – Volunteer Role
Looking for a collective, charity or individual to produce the annual Sports Day!
Throwing it back to the Gay & Lesbian Olympics, held on Canal St as part of MCR’s 1st Pride in 1985, the sports day is a key part of Withington Pride. Offering a family-friendly sober event.
You’ll need experience running sports or community events & managing volunteers.
Voluntary role, roughly 2 days of work.
You’ll be supported by the Withy Pride team, who’ll manage licensing, PLI, volunteer recruitment & promotion.
Contact [email protected]
https://www.instagram.com/p/DJ4ZQE5sHne/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
https://www.withingtonpride.com/
Instagram: @withingtonpride
Facebook: @withingtonpride
Forever Manchester,
Is searching for a new Chair to help shape the future of their incredible work.
They fund and support grassroots community activity across Greater Manchester – projects that bring people together, make neighbourhoods stronger and celebrate the pride, passion and spirit that define this city region.
As Chair, you’ll bring strategic leadership, energy and passion to a movement that directly inspires thousands of people every year. You’ll work alongside a dedicated Board, and talented Team and passionate volunteers to help Forever Manchester continue to thrive.
If you believe in the power of local people to change their own communities and you want to be part of something brilliant they’d love to hear from you.
Click the links below to find out more about the role and how to apply.
Save The Date: Dates announced for GM & Northwest Pride Events for 2025
| Bury | Saturday 7th June | ||||
| Chorlton | Saturday 13th September | ||||
| Didsbury | Saturday 30th August | ||||
| Happy Valley Pride Levenshulme | Saturday 26th July
Friday 8th – Sunday 10th August |
||||
| Manchester Pride | August Bank Holiday Weekend | ||||
| Oldham | 26th July | ||||
| Prestwich | 9th August – weekend | ||||
| Ramsbottom | T.B.C | ||||
| Rochdale | Sunday 22nd June | ||||
| Salford Pink Picnic | Saturday 21st June (Updated) | ||||
| Sparkle | Friday 27th – Sunday 29th June | ||||
| Stockport | Sunday 1st June | ||||
| Tameside | T.B.C | ||||
| Trafford | Tuesday 13th – Sunday 18th May | ||||
| Trans Pride | Saturday 2nd August | ||||
| Weaste Pride | Saturday 12th July | ||||
| Whalley Range | Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th May | ||||
| Wigan | Saturday 16th August | ||||
| Withington | Saturday 20th September (Prov) | ||||
| Pride in Nature with RHS Bridgewater | Sunday 7th September | ||||
Canal St Card.
Operated by Canal St Media, the card already has 1300+ holders and over 130 places to enjoy unique benefits and discounts at predominantly LGBTQ businesses and committed allies.
The current list is https://canal-st.co.uk/canal-st-card-offers-and-venues/
Every year George House Trust receives 5 donations directly from Card sales demonstrating that everyone can all benefit at the same time as providing modest, but grateful contributions towards the work George House Trust carries out.
Apart from the website information, they update via
@canalstreetmedia and @canalstcard on Instagram
@canalstvipcard Facebook
@canalstmancs Twitter/X
Join the growing list of card holders via https://app.passcreator.com/en/passlandingpage/showpaymentpage?passLandingpage%5B__identity%5D=115023a2-9a01-49ec-8d69-ec4ce6fec181
If you feel that you no longer wish to receive these emails, PLEASE let me know, I would hate to think I am bombarding you with information that you don’t require and it is just blocking up your inbox. (I won’t be offended).
Remember, if you have events or information you wish to share across Greater Manchester then feel free to send that over to me to be included, I send this email out to over 2000 contacts which in turn gets sent out through their networks: [email protected]