You can demonstrate your support for the LGBTQ+ community during Pride Month and show there is no pride in domestic abuse by joining Sandwell’s ‘Pride Picnic in the Park’ at Dartmouth Park on 11 June.

Bring a blanket, soft drinks and snacks for the event, which includes a ‘Walk with Pride. The walk will depart from Dartmouth Park at 11am and take in parts of Sandwell Valley. The Pride Picnic in the Park at Dartmouth Park (from 11am-3pm) will include family-friendly entertainment, live music, and LGBTQ+ information stands.

LGTBQ+ individuals may face more complex issues arising from emotional and psychological abuse, which can have an effect, whether or not the individuals report it and seek help. These reasons include fear of coming out or exposure of their sexuality or gender history.

Cultural and community acceptance varies from place to place for those individuals who identify as LGBTQ+, ranging from wide-spread acceptance to open discrimination, and abusers sometimes use the threat of exposure to control a victim.

There are many individuals who have not yet come out to friends, family, or at their workplace, and for someone who is in a domestic abuse relationship, they will often do all that they can to hide their situation in order to avoid it.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse and need support you can contact Black Country Women's Aid which provides a range of services and support to women and men experiencing domestic abuse from all communities, ethnicities and backgrounds. Councillor Danny Millard, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for communities, said:

“Domestic abuse can affect anyone. We believe that everyone should have the right to live without fear. Sandwell Council works with a range of partners throughout the year to help those experiencing domestic abuse.

“If domestic abuse is happening to you, it’s important that that you tell someone – you don’t have to wait for an emergency to find help.”

Visit shinealightfestival.co.uk/west-bromwich for more information.