This year URPotential were delighted to accompany 20 young people from their LGBT+ support groups that run across Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre in the Blackpool Pride Parade. The sun was shining and spirits were high, the atmosphere was electric and the young people were very excited. Each one had made their own banner to walk with and show their pride, for some young people this was their very first pride event.

In addition to the parade some young people volunteered on the URPotential stall at the main event, and encouraged others to join in the fun. On the stall they raised £30 pounds to go towards desperately needed resources. The young people invited Pride goers to write positive messages to the world or draw a picture on the ground with chalk, and encouraged people to dance.

The young people had this to say about the event;

It was a fun and accepting event and I felt safe there

There was no homophobic behaviour and every one was really accepting-I’ve made some good memories

I was really nervous at first as it was my first time at Pride, but URPotential helped me get over that and have a great time with my friends from the group

If you are 11-13, 14-17 or 18-25 living in Blackpool, Fylde or Wyre and identify as LGBT+ and would like to join a support group or seek 1 to 1 support  then please contact Louise Harrison or Nina Beavers on 01253 344398 for more information.