THE organisers of Worcestershire Pride have called for the wider community's help as the event is desperate for funding after having to cancel last year due to Covid-19.

Pride month is celebrated every June to recognize the struggles and achievements of the LGBT+ community throughout history around the world.

From the decriminalisation of homosexuality in 1967, to the same-sex couples marriage act of 2013, Pride has long been vital in paving the way for progression – recognising the need for equal rights for people of all genders and sexual orientations.

Pride Month is a celebration of Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay and Transgender diversity in the city, recognising the acceptance of same-sex marriages and legal protections for gay couples and families.

So supporting the event this year is one of the ways people can become an ally to the community.

Mathew Skilbeck, chairman, said: “Worcestershire Pride is in full process of organising this year’s event and believe now more than ever we need a festival to bring things back to normality. Pride month is well underway now and it’s a shame most festivals are postponing or cancelling again due to various issues.”

He added: “At Worcestershire Pride, we are seeing these effects, we provide a ‘free to attend Pride’ which means we can only operate if we get funding from sponsorship or donations and fundraisers. It’s great to see so many companies showing support during pride month by changing their company logos to the pride colours.”

The group are actively seeking support for funding. They posted on Facebook: “We need YOU!! As Worcestershire Pride is a strictly not-for-profit event, we rely on donations, volunteers and good old fashioned kindness to make Pride happen.”

Other suggestions to show support for the community is by displaying your preferred pronouns on social media and educating yourself on the issues faced by the LGBT+ community.