Thurrock LGBTQ+ Network awarded National Grant

The National Lottery Community Fund has awarded Thurrock’s LGBTQ+ Network with grant funding to further advance the Network’s growth within the Thurrock community.

Thurrock LGBTQ+ Network plans to use the funding to deliver a five-year programme that strengthens LGBTQ+ inclusion, wellbeing, and visibility across Thurrock. As well as hiring their first Project Manager, they plan to:

• Expand monthly socials and Café Pride sessions
• Deliver annual Thurrock Pride
• Launch and grow a youthled Arts Project
• Develop a Community Ambassador programme
• Increase outreach in deprived and rural areas, removing barriers such as travel costs,
• Building long-term sustainability through partnerships, advocacy, and improved monitoring and evaluation

All is aimed at reducing isolation, improving mental health, and ensuring LGBTQ+ people feel safe, supported, and represented across the borough.

The Thurrock LGBTQ+ Network team are thrilled with the news!

Jon Tilley, Founder, Member and Treasurer of Thurrock LGBTQ+ said:

“This funding means more to us than words can express. For many LGBTQ+ people in Thurrock, our spaces aren’t just events, they are safe spaces. As Treasurer, I’ve watched our volunteers pour their hearts into keeping this community alive. To now have the support that allows us to grow, reach isolated people, and build something lasting feels hopeful. This investment tells every LGBTQ+ person in Thurrock that they matter, they are valued, and that they are not alone. This funding doesn’t just strengthen our organisation, it strengthens our whole community.”

The Network has also just been given charity status by the Charity Commission for England & Wales, confirming the organisation’s work is officially recognised as operating exclusively for charitable purposes. For more information about Thurrock LGBTQ+ Network and how you can get involved with volunteering, upcoming events such as Thurrock Pride ‘26, contact [email protected] or sign up to the newsletter https://mailchi.mp/d4c5dd90104c/newsletter