Swindon & Wiltshire Pride has been named as ‘Community Group of the Year’ at the Wiltshire Life Awards, aimed at championing “tales of creative endeavor, bravery and community spirit.”
2023’s Pride celebration saw over 6500 people come together for a day of joy and love in Queens Park as part of the 15th anniversary celebrations.
Trustee Denise Dymond accepted the award, and in her speech thanked the sponsors, allies and the volunteers. “We’re grateful for Wiltshire for embracing diversity and enabling us to continue our mission to support equality within the community. We would be nothing without our community. It’s not just a charity, it’s a family.”
The ethos of the charity includes to “promote equality and diversity” and “eliminate discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation or gender identity”. The volunteer-led group regularly attend events throughout the year promoting diversity, and work includes the production of a free LGBTQIA+ support guide seen in schools, libraries and within the local community and the running of a weekly community Pride Hub in Regent Circus.
Speaking about the award, Swindon & Wiltshire Pride chairperson Paul Stewart, said "We are truly humbled to be recognised for the hard work Swindon & Wiltshire Pride do. Being nominated alongside community groups that are the true Pride of Wiltshire is very special. We dedicate this award to all those working to make their community a better place, there’s a unique and powerful bond when you come together and make real change happen.”
The ceremony took place on Friday night in Devizes and other winners included the Salisbury Community Hub for Ukraine, who were joint winners of the ‘Community Group of the Year’ alongside Swindon & Wiltshire Pride.