Pride Month: Celebrating LGBTQIA+ Communities Across Essex
11th June 2026
Essex Community Foundation (ECF) is proud to support LGBTQIA+ groups across Essex and celebrate the important work they do to bring people together, provide support and create more inclusive, connected communities.
This Pride Month, we’re shining a light on just some of the organisations we have supported and the work they do every day across Essex.
Supporting Pride and Visibility in Basildon
Basildon Pride was established in 2018 to bring people together and create greater visibility and support for the local LGBTQIA+ community. What began as a march through the town centre carrying the message “Love Conquers Hate” has grown into an organisation that promotes equality and diversity across Basildon, creating a place where people can connect, feel represented and celebrate who they are.
Through events, conversations and community activities, Basildon Pride provides a platform for LGBTQIA+ people, friends, families and allies to come together. Alongside the celebration, it creates opportunities for conversations around topics affecting LGBTQIA+ communities and provides spaces where people can access support and build connections.
The organisation helps increase understanding, challenge discrimination and strengthen connections across the borough.
Giving Young People a Voice in Colchester and Tendring
The OutHouse is a registered charity based in Colchester that supports the LGBTQIA+ community through a range of services including one-to-one support, counselling, group activities, social events, advocacy and awareness training.
Through its youth forum across Colchester and Tendring, young LGBTQIA+ people have a platform to share their experiences, discuss issues that matter to them and contribute their ideas.
Through regular meetings, activities and opportunities to learn from others, the forum supports young people to build confidence, have their voices heard and play an active role in shaping more inclusive communities.
Creating Opportunities to Connect in Thurrock
Thurrock LGBTQ+ Network works to promote equality and diversity across Thurrock and the surrounding area by bringing people together, raising awareness and challenging discrimination affecting the LGBTQIA+ community.
Through events and activities held throughout the year, including its annual celebration, film screenings, music nights and social gatherings, the network creates opportunities for LGBTQIA+ people, friends, families and allies to connect, share experiences and take part in community life. The organisation also works with local groups and partners to increase understanding, build connections and create more inclusive communities.
Continuing our Support
Thank you to all of the organisations supporting LGBTQIA+ communities across Essex. Your vital work helps people feel seen, supported and connected, and we are proud to continue supporting you.
If your organisation supports the LGBTQIA+ community and needs funding to continue your work, we welcome applications.