The group was founded in February 2024.
Pride Month brings a celebration of identity, unity, belonging and love. While Pride began as a fight for equality and visibility for the LGBTQIA+ community, it has grown into something wider: a reminder that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and free to be themselves. Pride is for all cultures, all sexualities, all genders, all ages and all who believe in equality and acceptance.
That belief sits at the heart of Burton Pride CIC, a grassroots, community-led organisation working to create welcoming spaces for LGBTQIA+ people and allies across Burton-upon-Trent. What began as a simple conversation and a shared vision has grown into a powerful local movement rooted in one message: everyone belongs.
Founded in February 2024, Burton Pride was created not only to host an annual Pride celebration but to build something lasting for the community. Alongside the main event on 27 June 2026, the organisation runs social meet-ups, accessible quieter spaces and year-round activities that help people connect, feel supported and celebrate who they are closer to home.
Powered by a passionate volunteer team, Burton Pride reflects values of inclusion, resilience and compassion. Our work extends beyond events, creating visible reminders of welcome and acceptance throughout the town. One example is the Window of Hope Competition, inviting local businesses to decorate their shop windows in rainbow themes. These displays may seem small, but for many they offer reassurance, visibility and hope.
Accessibility and belonging are central to everything Burton Pride does, with efforts to create neurodiverse-friendly and inclusive spaces for everyone.
In a world where division can feel loud, Burton Pride is helping Burton become a place where love, community and acceptance speak louder. Through visibility, celebration and solidarity, they are proving that when people come together with kindness and pride, everyone can feel seen, supported and proud to be themselves.
To find out more, visit www.burtonpride.co.uk.
Simon Whale is the founder and organiser of Burton Pride.