Volunteers step in to save Pride in Luton as new community interest company

Pride in Luton announced in March that it would be winding down, citing “a challenging year” and adding the trustees “no longer have the organisational capacity required to sustain the charity in a way that delivers the governance, stability and impact our community deserves.”

But now it will return as a Community Interest Company (CIC) to continue serving the LGBTQ+ community in Luton, with people encouraged to have their say on what they would like to see from Pride in Luton.

​Former trustee of the charity, Natalie Ryan, is back as the chair of the CIC, helped by deputy chairs Michael Nanton-Knight and Hayley Richards, who are looking to bring a new perspective to the organisation.

Natalie, a counsellor for Sexual Assault and Abuse Support Service in Milton Keynes, said: “[The charity] just got too big too quickly, and it didn’t have the support underneath it; it collapsed in on itself. When the decision was made, my heart broke.”

Becoming a CIC means the organisation will rely on its private sponsors and on community input about what they want to see.

Natalie explained: “This is more collaborative with the community.”

While the Pride in Luton festival won’t be held this Pride Month, organisers are determined to mark the occasion in a scaled-back celebration.

Hayley Richards said: “Pride in Luton will deliver meaningful, accessible events throughout the year, including taking part in the carnival, their annual vigil, picnic in the park, and Sunday socials, as well as a collaboration with The Bricklayers Arms on a very special ale, supplied by Vale Brewery in Buckinghamshire.”

The pub will host a celebration on June 6 from 2pm, with guests treated to DJs, karaoke, and a quiz.

Hayley added: “The committee warmly invites anyone who wants to get involved to join the committee town hall, help steer the organisation, or contribute in any capacity."

The big thing for the new committee is to involve everyone and put on events that matter.

Natalie said: “I work in mental health, I understand the importance of connection, belonging, and that’s what was being removed. At the moment, we just need people to come along and help.”

You can visit the website to find out more.