Publish date: 29 June 2026
Throughout Pride Month this year, members of our LGBTQ+ Staff Network have shared their thoughts on why Pride remains important to them today.
Celebrated every June, Pride Month is an opportunity to recognise, celebrate and support lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning and other LGBTQ+ people and communities. It is a time to celebrate identity, visibility and progress, whilst also acknowledging the challenges and inequalities that many LGBTQ+ people continue to face every day.
June was originally chosen for Pride Month to mark the anniversary of the Stonewall uprising in New York in June 1969. The events at the Stonewall Inn became a pivotal moment in the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement and inspired Pride events around the world.
While society has made significant progress in recent decades, many people feel that Pride remains as important as ever. For some, Pride is about visibility and representation. For others, it is about community, acceptance and the ability to live authentically and safely as themselves.
James (he/him), Organisational Effectiveness Practitioner
“Pride is important to me because… seeing people like me thriving in our community makes me feel proud to be my authentic self"
Catherine (she/her), Trainee Clinical Psychologist
“Pride is important to me because… of the ongoing discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ people, and the impact it has on our lives. There is safety, representation, support, solidarity, and joy when we join in community with one another"
Olly (he/him), Nurse Practitioner
“Pride is important to me because… it enables us to celebrate who we are as individuals - not just of the queer community, but all demographics and individuals to celebrate being oyu"
Anna (she/her), Highly Specialist Speech and Language Therapist
“Pride is important to me because… I want to live in a world that is safe and welcoming for everyone, whoever they choose to love."
Thank you to everyone who shared their experiences and reflections with us this Pride Month. You can read more reflections on the LGBTQ+ Staff Network YourSpace Page.
The Network is open to all LGBTQ+ colleagues, as well as allies who want to help create an inclusive, supportive and welcoming workplace for everyone. The network provides opportunities to connect with colleagues, share experiences, celebrate diversity and support inclusion across our organisation.
To find out more about the network, including how to join or get involved, please see YourSpace.
