We opened the doors to our new Foyle LGBTQIA+ Centre on the City Walls!
It’s something we’ve been working towards for a while, and it comes at a time when the need for support and space in the North West has been steadily growing.
Why this space matters
Over the past few years, more people have been accessing Rainbow services in the Foyle area, particularly through Rainbow Youth, but across all of our work.
Our previous space had reached its limit. It was clear we needed something that could properly support what’s already happening, and what’s still to come.
This new centre gives us that.
What’s here now
The centre brings a range of services together in one place, including sexual health support, counselling, peer support, cancer support, youth services, and wider community programmes.
Just as important as the services is the environment itself.
The aim was to create somewhere people feel comfortable coming into, somewhere open, accessible, and genuinely welcoming, without barriers.
Hearing from people using it
Since opening, it’s been encouraging to hear how people are experiencing the space.
Young people have talked about how it feels more open and easier to be in, particularly for those with sensory needs. Others have mentioned the difference having more room makes, being able to move between spaces, see what’s happening, and take part in more activities.
Those small things add up to a very different experience.
A full circle moment
There’s also something significant about opening this centre in Foyle.
This is where The Rainbow Project began. Now upgrading with a new space reflects how much has changed, not just in the organisation, but in the scale of need and the visibility of LGBTQIA+ communities across the region.
Looking ahead
The new centre includes a number of flexible spaces that can be used in different ways, from support groups and youth work to events, exhibitions, and community gatherings.
To find out more about the centre and venue hire contact us at: studio@rainbow-project.org