The Pride Pod, a new safe space for Crawley's LGBT+ Community

Crawley LGBT CIC Secures New Community Hub in Tilgate Park

Crawley LGBT CIC is thrilled to announce that it has obtained a lease from Crawley Borough Council for one of the huts in Tilgate Park. This space will serve as the organisation's new office and community base, providing a dedicated hub for Crawley's LGBT+ community.

The newly acquired space will enable the Community Interest Company to expand its reach and impact through project-based initiatives, events, and outreach programs. The company will officially launch their inclusive space on March 29th, 2025, with an open-door-launch event welcoming all members of the community.

The transformation of the hut into a vibrant and welcoming community space has been made possible through the generous support of local businesses and volunteers. Crawley Carpet Warehouse, Howdens, and Mayo Wynne Baxter have provided essential materials and labor, including flooring, kitchen facilities, and painting services, breathing new life into the building.

Crawley LGBT was founded in 2019 by a group of passionate individuals who initially set out to organise Crawley's first Pride event. While the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily disrupted those plans, the group's commitment to the LGBTQ+ community remained steadfast. In 2020, they established the Community Interest Company (CIC) and set their sights on securing a dedicated space to serve the community's needs. Through tireless efforts and unwavering dedication, the dream of a community hub has now become a reality.

Julie McAuley-Walker, Co-Director of Crawley LGBT CIC, expressed her enthusiasm for the new space, stating, "Our new dedicated workspace will enhance our team's efficiency and significantly benefit the local LGBT+ community and its allies. It will achieve this by fostering connections, directing individuals to appropriate support services, and offering opportunities for involvement in various projects and activities”

The new community hub represents a significant milestone for Crawley LGBT CIC and the LGBT+ community in Crawley. With a dedicated space and team for connection, support, and empowerment, the organisation is poised to make a lasting positive impact on the lives of LGBT+ individuals in the town and surrounding areas.

For further information on how you can support the team's effort and reach, please contact: Pride@crawleylgbt.com