Brighton Pride 2023: LGBTQ+ Support Charities in East Sussex
Happy Pride Month everybody!
Brighton is one of the gayest cities in the UK, with a 2014 estimate of 11-15% of the population identifying as LGBTQ+.
The history of LGBTQ+ culture in Brighton dates back to the early 1900s, as garrisons of soldiers from all over the country gathered in the city, meeting like minded members of the community for potentially the first time in their lives. By the 1930’s, there were gay and lesbian pubs being established, allowing a thriving LGBTQ+ culture to develop after the Second World War.
Despite the abundance of love and acceptance in Brighton, there are still plenty of people of all ages and backgrounds who are unsafe to be themselves.
In celebration of Pride Month, we wanted to highlight some incredible Brighton based LGBTQ+ charities that deserve support, as well as create a list of resources for anyone who needs to talk.
5 Charities for People Struggling with Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation in Brighton and Hove that Deserve Support this Pride.
ALL SORTS YOUTH PROJECT
All Sorts is a charity aimed at connecting LGBTQ+ youth.
They run support groups for ages ranging from 5 all the way through to 25 years old, as well as support groups for families of LGBTQ+ youth.
Whether you’re struggling with gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other LGBTQ+ related issues, All Sorts will be happy to help.
NAVIGATE BRIGHTON
Navigate works with Trans, Nonbinary, and Intersex people in Brighton.
They regularly run meetups, have forums where you can talk to people like you, as well as support resources designed to help you navigate your transition.
They even have a “binder library” where you can purchase pre-loved binders, making them more accessible to those who are closeted or on low income!
THE LGBT SWITCHBOARD: Disability Project
The LGBT Switchboard is an all-round fantastic service for LGBTQ+ people in Brighton and Hove, but their Disability Project is what we’re featuring today.
They organise and run social activities from disabled and neurodivergent people in LGBTQ+ communities, helping connect people with similar life experiences.
You can connect with them via their website, on Facebook, or even via Zoom calls if you need to talk!
THE VILLAGE METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH
Many members of the LGBTQ+ community have been ostracized from their religious communities, but if religion is an important part of your life, there are places in Brighton you can still worship openly.
The Metropolitan Community Church in Brighton is a Christian church who believe that everyone, regardless of gender, sexuality, race, abilities, beliefs, situation or any other factor, should have full and equal access to a loving God.
If you’ve felt excluded from your religious community in the past, the Metropolitan Community Church has a home for you!
RAINBOW FAMILIES
Rainbow Families is an informal social group for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents and their children in Brighton & Hove, Sussex and surrounding areas.
Whether you already have children or are expecting, Rainbow Families provides a safe space for children and families to connect with other members of the LGBTQ+ community.
They regularly organise and run events, so if you want to meet other LGBTQ+ families, this is the charity for you!
