Raising awareness in North Northants of LGBT+ History month

01 February 2023

February is LGBT+ History month and North Northamptonshire Council (NNC) are promoting and raising awareness of the support available for members of the LGBT+ community.

LGBT+ History month is a national event that was set up to highlight struggles the LGBT+ community have faced over the years. It also highlights the achievements and the work that still needs to be done to ensure true equality.

The month is about education, reflection and working together to spread kindness.
NNC are committed to ensuring everyone has access to safe and thriving places, which can only happen when everyone feels safe to be themselves. With this in mind, NNC were one of the first members, and biggest supporters, of the North Northants LGBT+ Forum at its inception in December 2021.

The Forum is made up of community groups, private and statutory organisation, charities and members of the public including allies of the LGBTQ+ community. It is designed to discuss where the gaps are in services for the LGBT+ community within North Northamptonshire and work out how these can be resolved.

Anyone wishing to be part of the forum can sign up to the mailing list on the LGBT+ Forum website. By doing this, you’ll be made aware of what is being worked on and can offer your own advice and support.

Current areas being looked at by the Forum include a lack of support for LGBT+ people over the age of 20, gaps in support within the care market and across GP surgeries.

LGBT+ History Month is the perfect opportunity for us to remind residents across North Northamptonshire of the support available to them.

But it’s not just about one month a year, there is support available all year round through the LGBT+ Forum and organisations. We are proud that North Northamptonshire is an inclusive area and we strive to continue the work being done by the LGBT+ Forum.Cllr Helen Harrison, the council’s Executive Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing

North Northamptonshire Council is constantly working to ensure everyone has a better, brighter future. As a local authority, it’s important that we set an example that is front and centre when it comes to supporting communities, so they feel safe and valued.Cllr Jason Smithers, Leaders of the Council

The forum is still relatively new and most members take on the work in a voluntary capacity outside of their day-to-day occupation. Members welcome any new ideas and support.

More information about the LGBT+ Forum can be found on their dedicated website.