Last week we were proud to attend the Well Proud conference, delivered by The Brunswick Centre and partners, bringing together over 100 professionals, practitioners and community organisations from across Calderdale and Kirklees.
The focus of the day was clear: improving health and wellbeing outcomes for LGBTQ+ people by designing services that genuinely reflect our lives, experiences and needs.
LGBTQ+ people continue to face distinct health inequalities. Discrimination, stigma and barriers to accessing services still shape how – and whether – people seek support. Too often, services are built around a “one size fits all” model, leaving many unsure where to turn or reluctant to engage at all.
The Well Proud campaign recognises that inclusive services don’t happen by accident. They require intention, partnership and a willingness to listen to lived experience.
For us at Out Together, this message strongly resonates. Whether we are delivering digital inclusion hubs, community events or developing safe online spaces, our aim is the same: to create environments where LGBTQ+ people feel seen, respected and supported.
A day of practical insight and lived experience
The conference explored a wide range of issues that shape LGBTQ+ health and wellbeing, including:
- HIV prevention and testing
- Smoking cessation
- Drugs, alcohol and chemsex
- Safer relationships and outreach
- Pride, connection and community
- Creative responses to stigma and inequality
There were powerful presentations from projects including Queer as Smoke, LEVEL, DRAG, Queer Bits and local Pride organisations. What stood out was the emphasis on practical action – not just identifying problems, but sharing models that are already making a difference.
The day was expertly hosted by Ginger Johnson, winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and Celebrity MasterChef, who brought warmth, humour and sharp insight to the room.
We were also moved by a special performance from theatre maker, filmmaker and HIV activist Nathaniel Hall, whose work continues to challenge stigma and centre lived experience in conversations about health and equality.
Building stronger, more inclusive services
One of the most encouraging aspects of the conference was the collaboration in the room. Health professionals, social care leads, community organisers and LGBTQ+ groups were not working in silos – they were learning from each other.
That cross-sector approach is essential. Health inequalities cannot be solved by clinical services alone. Community organisations, peer networks and safe social spaces all play a critical role in prevention, early intervention and long-term wellbeing.
At Out Together, we believe inclusive support means:
- Creating safe, moderated digital and physical spaces
- Championing allyship within and beyond the LGBTQ+ community
- Ensuring access to trusted information and services
- Listening to lived experience and acting on it
The conversations at Well Proud reinforced that this work must continue, and that it must be locally rooted.
From conversation to action
Conferences are important for reflection and connection – but the real impact comes afterwards. The challenge now is turning shared learning into sustained change across Calderdale and Kirklees.
We are grateful to The Brunswick Centre and all partners for creating space for honest discussion, practical learning and community connection.
Stronger, more inclusive services are possible. They are built through collaboration, accountability and a shared commitment to equity.
Out Together will continue to play our part in that work.