Pride events across Calderdale and Kirklees have provided an important opportunity to raise awareness of LEVEL and talk openly about LGBTQ+ relationships, domestic abuse and the support available.
Being visible at Pride matters. Domestic abuse can affect anyone, but LGBTQ+ people may face additional barriers when recognising abuse, talking about their experiences or seeking support. Pride events allow us to bring information directly into LGBTQ+ spaces, start conversations and make it clear that inclusive support is available.
Across the Pride season, the LEVEL team and wider partners spoke to many people about the programme. The response was extremely positive, with real interest in the support LEVEL provides and its wider work to promote healthier and safer relationships.
It was also a genuine team effort. Staff, volunteers and partners worked together to share information, answer questions and create a welcoming presence. The positive atmosphere at each event helped people engage with what can sometimes feel like a difficult subject.
Each Pride had its own character. Happy Valley Pride in Hebden Bridge celebrated its tenth anniversary with a packed week of events, while Holmfirth’s second Pride built on the success of its first and felt bigger, bolder and even more ambitious. Batley Pride had a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, while Huddersfield combined music, performance and community with a powerful reminder of the town’s LGBTQ+ history, marking 45 years since one of the first Pride events outside London. Together, they showed the strength, diversity and growing confidence of Pride across Calderdale and Kirklees.
Malcolm Struthers, LEVEL Communications Lead, said:
“It has been fantastic to see LEVEL represented so positively at Pride events across Calderdale and Kirklees. Visibility is incredibly important. It helps people understand that domestic abuse can affect LGBTQ+ relationships and, crucially, that specialist support is available. We had some really valuable conversations, and the warmth and interest shown towards the programme demonstrated why being part of these events matters.”
LEVEL was proud to take its place alongside the wider range of health and wellbeing initiatives brought together through Well Proud. From mental health, smoking and substance use to cancer awareness, HIV prevention and domestic abuse, Well Proud helps make LGBTQ+ health and wellbeing support more visible, connected and accessible.
Pride is about celebration, community and visibility, but it can also provide a valuable space to share information and connect people with support. We were delighted to be part of such positive events and to see so many people engaging with LEVEL and the wider Well Proud programme.
Find out more about Well Proud at www.thebrunswickcentre.org.uk/wellproud.
