Agenda item

Alison Hodges (VIN) – Pride sub group options

The forum attendees were very positive about the Pride event that took place in the Market Square on Saturday. Aimee has received some great feedback by email and there has been a lot of good press online and on social media about the event. Some were disappointed that there was no parade but a good step in the right direction. Suggestion that it seems to be the right time for Northampton Pride, particularly with University moving to the town.

Promotion:
Not everyone uses social media/Facebook so would be good to have more promotion in the town and elsewhere too. Good promotion from NBC social media and roadside boards, and via the Meet up group. Posters seen in Daventry gender clinic. Poster was not circulated early enough to get out to people.

Some performers received negative comments by young teenagers when leaving the market area. Koola were a brilliant end to day.

We want an event that is inclusive and open to all. Kettering did a pride last year with lots of families. Wellingborough Pride 3^rd August- Glamoris hall.

Suggestion to get in touch with Girl Guides who now support Prides.

Mixed comments about what worked well and future preferences around alcohol, family-friendly event and location. It was felt that the location on the market square meant increased footfall. Unitarian meeting house suggested as a quiet space to go if people need it for any future events in town centre. To be discussed by steering group in future.

Future Pride steering group:

Alison (VIN) spoke to the group about her role at VIN as a development officer, supporting people who want to form community groups, and helping established groups to explore funding options.

Alison suggests an unincorporated association for the LGBTQ Pride steering group. This is a straightforward process where the group meets and individuals decide on committee members, and set rules (constitution) that the group agrees. The group needs to set up a bank account and is then in a position to apply for funding. There is an option to become a registered charity group later, which opens more doors to funding. Small charities do not pay taxes. If the group registered with HMRC gift aid would also be an option.

Would need to set some aims and look at costs. NCF, NBC and small awards for all lottery pot are all options.

LGBTQ Consortium also offers funding for Prides, and was previously discussed as an opportunity the forum would like to explore.

We have had a lot of interest from businesses and organisations that are interested in sponsoring Pride 2020. Aimee will explore further once the steering group is established and begin discussions.

Discussion took place around sustainability and considering the environment when planning future Pride events. The group feel it is important to not allow other organisations (sponsors) to take control, consider ethical side and would want to look at their policies around LGBT. Steering group to make decisions and include this into constitution.

Fundraising in the community is important in the local community to build the energy. Creates energy and interest but makes least money for time/input- the community involvement is what is important.

Utilise people’s skills who are not necessarily able to make meetings.

If anyone is interested in being part of the constituted Pride committee (core group) please contact forums@northampton.gov.uk or aluck@northampton.gov.uk