About Redbridge Rainbow Community

For over 17 years we have supported, connected and advocated for LGBTQ+ people who live, wok, study and socialise in the London Borough of Redbridge.

We work with everyone, including LGBTQ+ people, allies and our wider communities, to support and celebrate LGBTQ+ people who live, work, study or socialise in Redbridge. Our diverse and accessible activities and events welcome, connect and support LGBTQ+ people, allies and our wider communities. We aim for LGBTQ+ people to have the freedom to be themselves, to live well and with dignity, and to be happily part of their local communities, whatever their age, background or individual circumstances. We work to eliminate inequalities faced by LGBTQ+ people and bring about change for the better in our local services and communities. We help LGBTQ+ people to overcome their fears and other challenges to speak out and amplify their voices.

We work to build bridges across our communities, foster allyship, collaboration and partnership-working. We foster a shared sense of empathy, equity, compassion, togetherness, and shared history. We focus on celebration, creativity, joy and positivity, but where needed, raise issues with others or provide constructive challenge.

Read our Strategy for 2025 -28.

Our work

We are determined to help LGBTQ+ people in Redbridge to thrive and live freely as themselves. Our activities aim to connect and engage the community, including our regular walks, nature-based activities and social meet-ups. In summer 2025 we held the first ever Redbridge Pride and we hope this can be an annual event. We will also continue to ‘celebrate the rainbow in Redbridge’ through events and activities throughout the year.

‘Lovely opportunity to meet people in the local community.’ Local community member

‘The range of activities was good, and it was great to see more of Redbridge.’ Local community member

‘Being with my people at an event at Ilford Town Hall was very special.’ Redbridge Pride 2025 attendee

Alongside running our own events to connect people, we engage with local groups, businesses and others running local events to ensure they are LGBTQ+ inclusive or encourage them to offer LGBTQ+ specific activities or information.

‘I thought I pretty much knew most things regarding the LGBTQ+ community as I have gay friends. I found really early on that I didn’t. It was very educational.’ Attendee at one of our training sessions for health and care professionals

Our team

Simon Shaw (he/him) is our Chief Executive, supported by a board of trustees, volunteers and freelance delivery partners. Contact Simon.