Building a stronger LGBTQ+ sector in Bristol

This Pride Month, we’re celebrating the power of partnership in strengthening communities — and the vital role of local infrastructure in making it happen.

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In Bristol, Voscur, a NAVCA member and LIQA (Local Infrastructure Quality Accreditation) holder, has been working with partners to build a more connected, resilient LGBTQ+ voluntary sector.

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Responding to a fragmented landscape

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In 2022, consultation with local organisations highlighted a clear challenge: despite a wide range of LGBTQ+ activity in Bristol, there was no central coordination, limited collaboration, and significant underfunding, particularly for smaller, community-led groups.

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At the same time, inequalities were growing. LGBTQ+ people faced rising hate crime, low reporting rates, and worsening health outcomes, especially in mental health.

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Voscur’s response was to convene the LGBTQ+ Partnership, bringing together organisations and community groups to build a shared voice and stronger support system.

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Creating the conditions for collaboration

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Since launching, the partnership has focused on connection, capacity building and influence. A diverse steering group, with a majority of LGBTQ+-led organisations, has shaped its direction, supported by an inclusion fund to ensure smaller groups can participate.

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Through open events, training and peer learning, the partnership has created space for organisations to connect, share knowledge and collaborate. It has also strengthened the sector’s voice, developing an LGBTQ+ Manifesto and opening doors to influence local decision-making, from health systems to tackling hate crime.

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A positive impact for organisations and communities

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The results are already significant. The partnership has engaged 79 organisations, including around two-thirds of LGBTQ+-led groups in Bristol, and supported community organisations with funding, training and one-to-one support.

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Importantly, funding is beginning to shift. In 2024, 87% of funding for LGBTQ+ projects in Bristol went to LGBTQ+-led organisations - a notable increase since the partnership began.

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Stronger connections are also emerging across the system. New relationships with health partners, local authorities and police are creating opportunities for more responsive, inclusive services that are shaped by the communities they serve. For many involved, the collaborative working also led to increased confidence, stronger relationships, and a growing sense of shared purpose.

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Looking ahead

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With continued funding secured, the next phase will see the partnership move towards becoming community-led, ensuring long-term sustainability and ownership.

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This work is a powerful example of how local infrastructure, backed by quality standards like LIQA, can bring people together, strengthen voices, and create lasting change. We’re proud of Voscur and looking forward to seeing what they achieve next.