Derbyshire LGBT+ Secures National Lottery Heritage Fund Grant to Deliver Two Landmark History Projects

Derbyshire LGBT+ is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a grant of £226,396 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to undertake two projects which will document and preserve overlooked aspects of the county's LGBT+ history.

The first project, entitled "Our Stories: Discovering our hidden LGBT+ history”, will focus on uncovering the hidden histories of LGBT+ individuals across Derbyshire. Through the collection of oral histories, archival research, and community engagement, the project will ensure that the contributions, challenges, and lived experiences of LGBT + people are acknowledged and safeguarded for future generations.

The second initiative, "Our Stories: Discover our hidden HIV history", will investigate and record the impact of HIV on local communities. This project aims to illuminate the social, cultural, and medical history of HIV in the county, capturing the resilience of those affected, remembering those who succumbed to the disease.

The histories of LGBT+ individuals and the history of HIV in Derbyshire exist in small amounts, and without this funding from the Heritage Lottery, the stories would remain unheard. Both projects will form an important part of Derbyshire's heritage, providing new insights and narratives which have historically been underrepresented.

To formally introduce these initiatives, Derbyshire LGBT+ will host two launch events in Derby and Chesterfield. The Derby event will take place on 21 October at 2pm - 6pm.

These events will outline the scope of the projects, introduce key partners and participants, and invite members of the public to become involved in preserving these important histories. The project team are keen to hear from anyone who may be interested in volunteering or from individuals who have a story to tell.  They want to hear from people who currently live or previously lived, worked or studied in Derby.  They especially want to hear from people with HIV, their families and healthcare professionals who can recount what it was like for them and how things might have changed. 

Ian Robson, Chief Executive from Derbyshire LGBT+ said:

“We are thrilled to have received this support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, these projects will ensure that stories which have too often remained untold will finally be recognised as part of Derbyshire's collective heritage. By preserving these voices, we hope to foster greater understanding, inclusivity, and respect for the diverse communities that shape our county.”

For more information, visit the Derbyshire LGBT+ website