Setting up an LGB Centre for Bradford - The story so far...

The idea of setting up a community centre for lesbian, gay and bi people has always been popular with LGB community groups in Bradford.
Many LGB people have found themselves excluded from their local community centres and there have been many difficulties in finding the sort of support that community groups need to run effectively.

When Bradford LGB Network first started working with LGB groups in 1999 we found that most had nowhere suitable to meet, little access to office facilities like a photocopier or phone line and very few funds to improve this situation.

Importantly, LGB communities felt they needed a physical space where they would feel a sense of 'ownership' - somewhere that was run by and for the community and that positively welcomed LGB projects.


LGBnet initially brought people together to discuss the idea of 'a room of our own' in September 2001. As well as LGB community members we invited allies from 'mainstream' organisations that support community development.
From this event we fundraised for an LGB resource room project and last year employed a consultant to research what LGB community groups would need from such a project.
After the research was done it was clear that many people wanted facilities that were more extensive than a resource room - and the idea of an LGB community resources centre was begun.


Today the Centre Project is a partnership between LGBnet, Yorkshire mesmac and a steering group of LGB community people [some from LGB groups, some involved as individuals]
The project also has support from Bradford Council, Neighbourhood Renewal Community Cohesion unit, West Yorkshire police and Bradford Hate Crimes Alliance amongst others.


Setting up a project of this scale requires the involvement and commitment of many people and it takes time to develop - However the project is already looking at prospective premises and has raised funds to employ a Centre co-ordinator/ development worker.

This would not be possible without the involvement of LGB people willing to volunteer with the project - and the community steering group is open to new members!


If you want to volunteer with the project or you are just interested and want a chat contact Rachel at LGBnet [01274 733858] or Andy at mesmac [01274 395815]

We also need the involvement of other community organisations who can contribute their workers time, information, contacts or expertise.

To get regular information about the project join the LGBnet mailing list - send your name and postal address to:
admin@lgbnet@clara.co.uk
with 'please add to mailing list' as the subject header.
For information about the Centre Project steering group email:
bradford@mesmac.co.uk
explaining what information you need.

The steering group meets on the second Tuesday each month [6.30-8.30] in central Bradford