Welcome
Our History
Equity Partnership, officially constituted as a new organisation in 2005, has its roots deeply embedded in the lesbian and gay activism that has thrived in Bradford for decades. The journey to establish this charity required immense effort from many dedicated individuals over the years.
Promoting Equality, Embracing Diversity since 1998… The History of Equity Partnership
In the 1990s, Bradford witnessed the birth of several key initiatives, such as the Northern Older Lesbian Network, Mesmac, and regular lesbian and gay social evenings at the gay-owned Bavaria pub. Helplines like Bradford Friend and Lesbian Line, set up and run by volunteers, also provided crucial support.
Around 1998, as Bradford Council was developing its 20:20 Vision for the future, it became clear that the LGB community needed to be included in these plans. Activists had various places to connect with other LGB people and began meeting in Bradford Central Library—a safe and anonymous venue for LGB individuals at the time.
With some financial support from Bradford Council to cover room hire, volunteers took the lead in developing ideas and ensuring LGB representation in the 20:20 Vision.
Recognising the need for greater support, the group applied for and received funding from Comic Relief and Bradford’s Neighbourhood Renewal Fund. In 1999, they established the Bradford LGB Network, hired a worker, and rented an office at the Bradford Resource Centre. Occasional fun events at St Peters House on Saturdays provided a platform for LGB people to meet, discuss community needs, and enjoy themselves.
These gatherings generated significant momentum. The community expressed a strong desire for ‘A Room of Our Own’ and an Action Plan to address issues and combat discrimination.
Although there was debate about whether managing a centre would detract from networking and campaigning efforts, research affirmed the need for an LGB Centre. Consequently, in 2004, the Equity Centre Steering Group was formed with volunteers. Concurrently, the Network developed an LGB Action Plan, which was integrated into the Bradford Partnership of public organisations across the district.
To assist the Steering Group, Bradford Council seconded a temporary part-time worker to help find premises and build a constituted organisation. As the LGB Network’s funding was nearing its end, it merged with the Steering Group in 2005 to form the new Equity Partnership. This new entity aimed to combine the establishment of a community centre with ongoing community development work to support, network, and advocate for the community.
After many false starts, suitable premises were finally secured, and short-term funding for a part-time LGB Health Worker was obtained from the NHS. Additionally, some council funding helped run the community centre. In 2006, the team expanded with the addition of a Community Development Worker, funded by the council. That year, Equity Partnership celebrated with a grand launch and its first AGM, participated openly in the Lord Mayor’s Parade, and hosted the inaugural Bradford Pride event in Peel Park, despite the pouring rain and the necessity of rainbow umbrellas!
In 2007, thanks to the relentless efforts of the Management Committee volunteers, Equity Partnership secured a five-year grant from the Big Lottery, along with other funding. For the first time, the community enjoyed relative financial security.
The success and longevity of Equity Partnership can be attributed to its solid foundation and continual evolution. The individuals involved in its establishment brought a wide range of skills, knowledge, and experience, all deeply committed to developing the LGB (and now TQIA+) communities.
The journey was never dull—often challenging, but frequently fun. Community development remained central to its mission. Volunteers have contributed countless ideas, energy, and hard work, and continue to do so today. There’s nowhere else quite like it in the country, and we are all immensely proud of what Equity Partnership has achieved.
