June is Pride Month, a time to honour the history, achievements and ongoing struggles of LGBTQ+ communities. While parades and celebrations are important, Pride is also a call to action—a reminder that lasting change comes from everyday acts of solidarity and support.
One meaningful way to be an ally is through volunteering. Across the North East and beyond, charities and community groups work year-round to support LGBTQ+ people, and many rely on volunteers to help make their work possible. Whether you can give a few hours each week or just now and then, your time can make a real difference.
Why Volunteering Matters
Volunteering is more than giving time—it’s about building inclusive communities where everyone feels safe, valued, and supported. It’s a chance to stand alongside LGBTQ+ people, learn from their experiences, and support organisations that are creating safer, more equitable spaces for everyone.
Organisations You Can Support
- Pride Action North
A leading LGBTQIA+ charity offering youth support, mental health services and inclusive community events across the North. Volunteers can get involved in event planning, youth programmes and admin support. Get Involved – Pride Action North.
- akt (The Albert Kennedy Trust)
Supports LGBTQ+ young people aged 16–25 who are facing homelessness or unsafe living conditions. Volunteers can help with mentoring, fundraising and office support. Get Involved – AKT.
- Curious Arts
Champions LGBTQIA+ arts and culture in the North East. Volunteers are needed for event support, marketing and community outreach. Get Involved – Curious Arts.
- Sister Shack
A grassroots platform celebrating queer Black and Brown voices. Volunteers can help with event logistics, promotion and content creation. Get Involved – Sister Shack.
- Northern Pride (Newcastle)
Organises the annual Newcastle Pride festival and promotes LGBTQ+ inclusion through events and education. Volunteers support event delivery, stewarding and outreach. They also have need for volunteers throughout the year in Social Media and Content Creation. Get Involved | Northern Pride
- Be: North
A peer-led support organisation for trans and non-binary people in the North East. Volunteers can assist with peer support, events and admin.
Be: Trans Support & Community
- Rainbow Home
Supports LGBTQ+ people who are seeking asylum or have refugee status in the North East. Get Involved – Rainbow Home
- Micro Rainbow
A UK charity providing safe housing, fellowship, job readiness, and social inclusion to LGBTQI refugees and asylum seekers. Get Involved – Micro Rainbow
National and Online Opportunities
If you’re looking for ways to support LGBTQ+ communities from outside the region or remotely, these national organisations also welcome volunteers:
- Switchboard LGBT+ Helpline – Offers listening and support services. Volunteer | Switchboard
- Just Like Us –If you’re LGBT+, age 18-25 and living in the UK, you can volunteer on our Ambassador Programme. If you’re over 25 and LGBT+, you could support a young person through career mentoring. Volunteer – Just Like Us
- Stonewall – Campaigns for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion, with some remote roles available. Find out more.
How to Be an Ally Beyond Pride Month
- Listen and learn: Educate yourself about LGBTQ+ experiences and histories.
- Speak up: Challenge discrimination and support inclusive policies.
- Create safe spaces: Foster environments where everyone feels welcome.
- Support LGBTQ+ businesses and artists: Economic support is a powerful form of allyship.
- Volunteer or donate: Your time, skills, or resources can help sustain vital services.
Final Thoughts
Pride Month is a celebration—but it’s also a reminder that inclusion, equality, and justice require ongoing effort. By volunteering and being an active ally, you can help build a North East where everyone has the freedom to be themselves.
