Stafford’s first ever Pride festival has received support from the region’s leading housing association.
Through its Community Fund, Homes Plus sponsored the County Town’s Pride event in Victoria Park on Saturday, 10th August.
The festival serves as a platform for the LGBTQ+ community to come together and celebrate.
Homes Plus talked to attendees about the services it offers, any housing related queries and discussed careers in housing at their stand inside Victoria Park.
Homes Plus Executive Director of Housing and Care, Les Clarke, explained: “I’m proud to be part of an organisation that engages with and supports the LGBTQ+ community and I’m delighted that we were able to take part in the first ever Stafford Pride. It is a great opportunity to support our colleagues and customers in the LGBTQ+ community.
“At Homes Plus we celebrate diversity and strive to create a workforce and service where everyone feels free to be who they are, helping us to better engage with the diverse communities we serve.”
The event saw a parade work its way through the streets of Stafford, before finishing with performances from the runner-up of BBC Three’s Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK, Michael Marouli, The Players, Sonic Boom, and Beyonce Fierce.
The sponsorship by Homes Plus will directly support the activities and outreach efforts of Stafford Pride, ensuring the continued success and positive impact of the festival.
Jack Taylor-Walker, Chairman of Stafford Pride, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Homes Plus on board as our Sponsor of Stafford Pride 2024.
“As a local organisation it is paramount to support the local community wherever possible and Homes Plus are truly doing this with their support.
“Creating Stafford’s first-ever Pride event is key to bringing the LGBTQ+ community together across Stafford and the wider areas.
“With the support of Homes Plus we can reach more people in the community than we first planned.”
Earlier this year Homes Plus signed up to the HouseProud Pledge, a scheme designed to make sure LGBTQ+ residents can enjoy their homes without fear of discrimination.
Les Clarke added: “We are committed to addressing the unique challenges faced by our LGBTQ+ residents and shaping our services so we can better support our customers and colleagues.”
The My Community Fund, delivered in partnership with Jewson, supports grass-roots organisations in Staffordshire and Shropshire. Local charities and voluntary groups can apply for grants online at: www.homesplus.co.uk/help-and-advice/the-my-community-fund/
Further information about Stafford Pride can be found here.
Caption for picture LAN2420_Pride:
Homes Plus colleagues at Stafford Pride 2024.
