First LGBT centre set to open this weekend in Carlisle

Carlisle’s first LGBT centre is set to open its doors this weekend.

The cafe “Sticky Bits” In Fisher Street will be open to the general public on Saturday – a week ahead of the official opening of the centre.

It will be the city’s first dedicated LGBT information centre, housing a variety of information specialists, including a home for charities offering advice, as well as a base for the police where people can report problems and hate crimes.

An eventual nightclub downstairs is also set to feature.

Pam Eland, from Pride in North Cumbria (PiNC), said: “If you’re in town on Saturday come and say hello.

“There will be some grub and teas and coffees and lots of cake. If anyone wants to come and do some volunteering it will be much appreciated, you will get fed and watered. Come and join in the fun, have a bit of a giggle and a cuppa.”

Ms Eland added: “PiNC feels this was the way forward, following feedback from the LGBT community; as LGBT people need and want a space where they can feel safe and access the services and support they require.

“Currently little support is available to the LGBT community in Cumbria, and creating more support is something we are all working towards.

“Around the county smaller youth and community projects are working hard to promote equality and diversity, to provide support to lesbian, gay men, bisexual and transgender people, as well as challenging homophobia.

“The centre will provide opportunities to bring these groups in Carlisle and North Cumbria under the same roof and to encourage larger national and regional LGBT organisations to bring their services to Cumbria.”

• Dec 31 2024

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