A new LGBTQ+ safe space has opened in Liverpool ahead of Eurovision.
Pride House Liverpool - a community safe space featuring cafe, bar, exhibitions, and community stalls - has been officially opened by Martin Green, managing director of Eurovision, and BBC commentator Rylan Clark.
Located in the RIBA North, National Architecture Centre at Mann Island, just a stone's throw away from the EuroVillage at Pier Head, it offers a calmer space where all are welcome.
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Open from 9am to 5pm every day from today, Tuesday, May 2, until the Eurovision final, Saturday, May 13, the space, which is delivered by LCR Pride Foundation, features pop-up stalls from local traders, support services and agencies working to keep visitors and locals alike safe during the contest.
Andi Herring, CEO and co-founder of LCR Pride Foundation, said: “All the time when we talk to communities about feeling safe and supported, they tell us having places they can identify with and see people like themselves in is so important.
“With thousands more LGBT+ people due to arrive in the city over the next days and weeks, this is further needed and plays a vital role in ensuring everyone can have a safe and enjoyable visit to our great city region.”
A full programme of events will run through the 11 days, with workshops, social and peer support groups and exhibitions, including ‘Tales of Yester-Queer’ - an archive of photographs and albums representing the LGBT+ clubbing scene in the 1980s and 90s.
The RIBA North centre is ‘You’re Safe Here’ accredited, meaning that staff have undergone training to support people needing help. In addition, support services such as Merseyside Police, Stop Hate UK, Sahir House, and others will be in the space to signpost and offer services to attendees.
Read more about LGBTQ+ events happening for Eurovision here.
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