The Dolphin in Poole is delighted to confirm it will host a range of community-focused events throughout June in celebration of Pride Month.
Supported by Space Youth Project, Body Positive and Steps2Wellbeing, sessions will take place in The Dolphin’s community hub, GATHER, throughout Pride month. All sessions are free for the public to attend and focus on signposting, accessing important resources and highlighting the support that is available to LGBTQ+ members of the Dorset community.
John Grinnell, Centre Manager of The Dolphin, said: “The Dolphin prides itself on providing meaningful services to the Poole community and it is key that we support the whole breadth of this diverse town. Events such as Pride are a positive time to focus on all members of the public and it allows The Dolphin to highlight that we are a safe and inclusive space for all visitors.
“We fully support the LGBTQ+ community this Pride Month. Teaming up with Space Youth Project, Body Positive and Steps2Wellbeing in GATHER will provide people with the opportunity to discuss the available services and access vital support in our area.”
The Dolphin will also reflect its support for Pride Month with various decorations throughout the centre including new Pride Hopscotch and Dance Circle installations for locals to enjoy while visiting.
Helen Walsh, from Space Youth Project, said: “It is fantastic to be back in The Dolphin to share information about the support we can offer to the LGBTQ+ community in our area. In recent years we have seen that huge steps have been taken towards the world becoming a more understanding and inclusive environment, but any opportunity to broaden this conversation is essential. It is fantastic that The Dolphin team recognises this and provides us with the opportunity to do this in the heart of Poole.
“This is a brilliant partnership and we want to continue to highlight the welcoming nature of The Dolphin to our service users.”
Samantha Dawson, Manager of Body Positive added: “There can still be a stigma surrounding discussions on sexual health, and this can be even more difficult for members of the LGBTQ+ community. At Body Positive we provide information and support to those living with or affected by HIV.
“Being able to promote this message to a wider audience and give the public a direct access point for signposting is a hugely important element of what we do. We are grateful for the support of The Dolphin team in delivering these sessions.”
A full timetable of the events programme is available to access via Eventbrite https://shorturl.at/hpHSV.
For more information visit dolphinshoppingcentre.co.uk or follow The Dolphin on Facebook and Instagram @thedolphinpoole.