Round three of Greater Manchester LGBTQ+ Community Fund open to applications

Round three of the Greater Manchester LGBTQ+ Community Fund from the LGBT Foundation and George House Trust is now open to applications.

The fund gives financial support to groups, organisations, charities and projects in Greater Manchester that address the needs and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer and other non-binary or gender-conforming identities) communities, promote equality and social change, and raise awareness of HIV.

Delivered by George House Trust and LGBT Foundation and supported by Homobloc, round three offers grants of up to £1,000 to groups with innovative ideas that make a positive impact on the lives of people in Greater Manchester.

The fund can support a wide range of projects including empowering community events, uplifting awareness campaigns, arts and culture work, mental wellbeing support services, sports and leisure activities, and more.

Dr Paul Martin OBE, CEO of LGBT Foundation, said: “We are thrilled to be working with our good friends at George House Trust and Homobloc to bring back the Greater Manchester LGBTQ+ Community Fund.

“Round three builds upon the success of initiative to date, which has supported inspiring organisations such as Salford Pride, Proud 2b Parents, Rainbow Noir and Dibby Theatre to create a range of support programmes and community-led events that celebrate education, diversity, and inclusion.

“It is incredibly important to spotlight the voices and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals; I encourage groups and individuals with innovative ideas to seize this opportunity and help create a place where queer people can flourish and people living with HIV can live stigma-free and confident lives.”

Darren Knight, chief executive of George House Trust, said: "We are delighted to be partnering with LGBT Foundation for round three of the Greater Manchester LGBTQ+ Community Fund.

“This initiative allows us to support projects that not only address the needs of the LGBTQ+ community but also raise awareness of and educate people about HIV.

“It's a fantastic opportunity to drive positive change and promote inclusivity and equality for all. It shows the power of partnerships and the importance of uplifting each other to make a huge difference to communities across Greater Manchester."

Collectively, LGBT Foundation and George House Trust have played significant roles in promoting the health and well-being of queer people across the UK, while providing crucial support, essential services, and assistance to those living with and affected by HIV.

The application process for round three is open until 11.59pm on Sunday 17 September 2023.

Interested applicants can find more information, including eligibility criteria, application guidelines, and deadlines, on the LGBT Foundation website at lgbt.foundation/community-fund

Proposals will be reviewed by a panel of experts, including representatives from the public sector, local authorities, the Village Licensed Business Association (VLBA), community representatives, George House Trust Trustees, and LGBT Foundation Trustees.