When Chester Pride first started planning our community space at the Rainbow Tea Rooms, we wanted to create somewhere that felt welcoming and supportive, not just for the LGBTQ+ community but for the wider community in Chester too.
Through our charity work, we were regularly approached by people experiencing anxiety, depression and social isolation. We wanted the café to be somewhere people could come for a chat, feel listened to and, most importantly, feel connected to their community.
Over the past few years, with the help of our wonderful Chester Pride volunteers and staff and funding by The National Lottery Community Fund, we’ve been able to develop a range of workshops that give people the opportunity to get creative, learn something new and spend time with others.
While we already offered fundraising events, social groups and evening activities, we recognised that there was a gap. Many people experiencing loneliness and social isolation have more free time during the traditional working week, when others may be at work or busy with their usual routines. We wanted to offer something during these hours too, giving people a reason to get out of the house, meet others and feel part of something.
Our workshops have helped bridge that gap. They’re free to attend, led by local artists and enthusiasts, and offer something for everyone. From crochet and bookbinding to seasonal and festive crafts, there’s always something new to get involved in. You don’t need to be particularly creative or have any experience, just come along and give it a go.
Our community space is about so much more than the activities themselves. It’s about building relationships, creating connections and giving people a place where they feel welcome. It’s also a way for Chester Pride to be more than just a one day event, allowing us to support and connect with our community throughout the year.
After all, we are a charity by the community and for the community, and that’s something we will always stand by.
Fancy joining us?
If you’d like to come along to one of our workshops, you can find out more about upcoming activities in the events section of our website. We’d love to see you there!
