On March 29, Crawley LGBT Community Interest Company (CIC) opened the doors to its brand new LGBTQ+ community safe space, The Pod, for the very first time. The space, in Tilgate Park, will serve as the organisation’s new office and community base, providing a dedicated hub for Crawley’s LGBTQ+ community.
The newly acquired space will enable the CIC to expand its reach and impact through project-based initiatives, events, and outreach programmes.
The transformation of the hut into a vibrant and welcoming community space was made possible through the generous support of local businesses and volunteers. Crawley Carpet Warehouse, Howdens and Mayo Wynne Baxter have provided essential materials and labour, including flooring, kitchen facilities, and painting services, breathing new life into the building.
Crawley LGBT was founded in 2019 by a group of passionate individuals who initially set out to organise Crawley’s first Pride event. While the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily disrupted those plans, the group’s commitment to the LGBTQ+ community remained steadfast. In 2020, they established the CIC and set their sights on securing a dedicated space to serve the community’s needs. Through tireless efforts and unwavering dedication, the dream of a community hub has now become a reality.
Julie McAuley-Walker, Co-Director of Crawley LGBT CIC, expressed her enthusiasm for the new space, stating: “Our new dedicated workspace will enhance our team’s efficiency and significantly benefit the local LGBTQ+ community and its allies. It will achieve this by fostering connections, directing individuals to appropriate support services, and offering opportunities for involvement in various projects and activities”
According to Crawley LGBT, the new community hub “represents a significant milestone for Crawley LGBT CIC and the LGBTQ+ community in Crawley”. With a dedicated space and team for connection, support, and empowerment, the organisation is poised to make a lasting positive impact on the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals in the town and surrounding areas.
