Forward is a Stockport-based organisation, aimed at improving the wellbeing of the local LGBTQ+ community.  

Through sports events, walks, games nights and more, Forward seeks to create a safe space where local members of the LGBTQ+ community can relax, be themselves, and feel supported. 

Stockport Nub News spoke to Tina Carnally, Forward's founder and director.  

Summarising neatly what Forward is about, Tina says: "People are looking for a space to be themselves which they may not have at home."

"Things are far worse than people imagine", she continues. "Any issues in the public domain, our community feels ten times over."

This, Tina argues, is why having a safe space is so important. Whenever people may feel uncomfortable, they can come to Forward for respite and support. 

This support can take a number of forms. For one, Forward has cultivated a community of local LGBTQ+ members who can offer help when someone needs it. 

For instance, Tina describes the Forward WhatsApp community - currently at around 45 members - where mutual advice and discussion is available; whether one seeks some like-minded people to chat to, or more serious help, Forward aims to build a community where both options are available.

"Mostly it's general chat, including lots of pictures of pets! Still, every now and then, someone will say 'I'm struggling', and it will be met with a flood of supportive responses."

On the other hand, support can take a more passive form in the numerous wellbeing activities which Forward hosts.  

Forward has recently begun hosting games nights at Edgeley Park. Founder Tina Carnally is pictured third from the left in the front row (Image - @forward_stockport on Instagram)

Walking, litter picks, badminton, tennis, games nights, pub socials - all of these activities become places where struggling LGBTQ+ members can feel among friends.

Currently, Forward is close to finding a physical space to make hosting activities easier in future. Tina outlines hopes that the space could host counselling, a café, artwork, a queer library, sessions, games nights, yoga, and more. 

The organisation already has the support of Stockport County FC; the club has worked with Forward in the Football v Homophobia campaign, and has generally been very supportive, Tina says. 

Nonetheless, she emphasises that the wider approach of ending discrimination will take a long time and 'a complete cultural shift'.  

Any readers who identify as LGBTQ+ and feel in need of support or simply a friendly ear are encouraged to join the Forward community. A helpline is available from Monday to Friday 9am-5pm. The WhatsApp group is also available to join, as are the myriad of activities which Forward hosts.  

You can also find Forward on social media: Instagram | Facebook | Website

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