Thurrock LGBTQ+ Community Network

Today we are in Essex to learn more about the Thurrock LGBTQ+ Community Network in what has been a fantastically busy Summer for them, our Head of Communications Luke Upton sat down with Jon, one of its organisers, to find about more about story, work and goals.  

Luke Upton (LU): Hello Jon, thanks for the time today, what’s been going on this Summer for the Thurrock LGBTQ+ Community Network so far?

Jon (J): Hi Luke, thanks for asking. It's been a brilliant summer for the Thurrock LGBTQ+ Community Network. We ran a Drag Bingo for Pride in June at the Thameside Theatre in Grays. It turned out to be one of our most popular events so far and taking liberties with the Bingo Lingo, we had a "Full House '' as we had "Turn the Screw '' people there (that's 62 to you and me). It was an evening of song, competitions, dancing and laughter. In addition to this event, we held our first private shopping event in partnership with Haven Hospice Charity Shop in Thurrock, which provided a safe and secure place for all LGBTQ+ people to shop. It was a friendly, joyous night, and we plan to hold another one. 

Here's what Emma, the manager of the Haven Hospice Charity shop, had to say about the event: “As the manager of the Gray's Havens Hospice shop, I was honoured to be able to host a shopping event for Thurrock LGBTQ community. The event was a first for Havens and it was lovely to meet new people and customers who could shop and socialise at the same time. It was admirable that new members felt safe enough to come along and I want to reassure visitors to the shop that we are an inclusive and safe environment”.

And at the end of July for all Dancing Queens and Kings, step into summer, as we'll be screening the movie Mamma Mia at the Thameside Theatre, where dressing up, singing and dancing will be encouraged, and prizes will be given to the best dressed. We're also looking to plan monthly events to the end of the year, more films, more Bingo, and a spooky one for Halloween. All details will be shared via social media, on the Thameside website, and via our monthly newsletter. 

LU: Phew, busy times! So, when did the Network start?

J: We originally started in 2018 and were slowly building our membership, engaging with local LGBTQ+ people, and finding out what kind of events they'd like to see and what they wanted from the Network. Then like everyone, COVID struck in 2020. So, David, Claire, Charlotte and myself reignited the group in May 2022, and we're pleased with what we have achieved.

LU: Glad to hear it, and what are some of the changes you’ve seen since the relaunch?

J: We've seen some fascinating developments! Our plan was always to make the local LGBTQ+ scene a vibrant and welcoming one, to increase the visibility of LGBTQ+ people within the community, and at each event we have run, we have seen the number of attendees grow. Although, what's important to us, is not just more numbers but to reach that lonely person, who may be feeling isolated and vulnerable, and to give them the support and confidence to know they are not alone. And it's truly incredible when someone takes that brave step and can make friends and share their experiences. And to help support everyone, we have been working closely with Thurrock & Brentwood Mind (the mental health charity), they are at each of our events to offer advice and support on the services they provide. We're always working to connect with other organisations within Thurrock, and at our last event, Terrence Higgins Trust, the UK's leading HIV and Sexual Health Charity, were there to inform people about the services they offer.

LU: There’s lots of exciting stuff going on, but what are some of the challenges you face in 2023?

J: Many people will say that it's not a problem to be gay anymore, that LGBTQ+ people are seen in mainstream media, film, TV etc. and that homophobia is a thing of the past. Unfortunately, as we have seen from the latest Hate Crime figures in Thurrock, there is a drop in Homophobic hate crime by 3.7% but a considerable rise in Transphobic hate crimes of 150.00%; sadly, LGBTQ+ people do not feel safe in Thurrock, which is why the Thameside complex is essential to the LGBTQ+ community. It is a safe space where LGBTQ+ people can feel confident that they will not be exposed to discrimination, criticism, harassment, or other emotional or physical harm.

Currently, in Thurrock, there is very little support for LGBTQ+ residents, leaving many feeling isolated and lonely and, in some cases, concerned for their safety. Apart from the Thameside complex, there is nowhere for LGBTQ+ people to meet within Thurrock, nor anywhere they can meet with friends and allies. The Thameside offers the opportunity for the local LGBTQ+ community to come together to learn from, teach, and have an impact on other LGBTQ+ people with whom they might not have otherwise interacted. The Thameside gives Thurrock's LGBTQ+ community a space to be people without having to explain, define, excuse, or justify.

The Thameside is a place for play, relaxation, venting, and discussion with like-minded individuals. Unfortunately, the future of the Thameside Complex hangs in the balance as Thurrock Council decides its fate. And currently, this is the only safe space for LGBTQ+ people in Thurrock. Without it would be a considerable challenge to find a replacement safe space.

LU: Thank you for your honesty in sharing this. You recently received a Magic Little Grant from Localgiving and the People’s Postcode Lottery, how important was this, and for what did you use it?

J: This was hugely important to us. Reaching people to inform and engage with them about our events is crucial, and utilizing social media advertising is essential with limited funds. With the Magic Little Grant from Localgiving and the People's Postcode Lottery, we created events, boosted the number of people we reached, and targeted our advertising to reach LGBTQ+ people. With this, we were able to grow our audience. In addition to this we can reach those people who might never have considered attending an LGBTQ+ event in Thurrock. Thank you!

LU: Brilliant, so if anyone wants to get involved, or learn more, where’s the best place to find you?

J: You can find us on social media, or email us on thurrocklgbtqnetwork@gmail.com we're a friendly little group and always looking for volunteers, so drop us a line if you want to get involved or receive our monthly newsletter. 

LU: Great, and before we go, is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?

J: Our long-term aims are to increase our network, make more places in Thurrock LGBTQ+ friendly, and continue to offer support for members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families, friends, and allies. And finally, we might be a small group, but we have big plans, next year we plan to host Thurrock's first Pride.

LU: Good stuff, we look forward to working more with you and seeing you grow and thrive! 

*** If you are interested in fundraising with Localgiving, click here to find out more ***