Medway Pride CIC, MGSD Centre, 331 High Street Rochester Medway ME1 1DAinfo@medwaypride.uk 01634 408668
Medway Pride 2025 Report
Medway Pride 2025 Festival Report
Celebrating Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement
Introduction
Medway Pride 2025 was a prominent celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community, dedicated to advancing diversity, inclusion, and unity within Medway and its surrounding areas. The festival continues to serve as a vital platform for promoting equality and fostering respect among all members of the community.
Festival Overview
The 2025 festival took place in Rochester, Medway, drawing thousands of participants and visitors from Kent and beyond. The programme featured an extensive array of live music, drag performances, community engagement stalls, food vendors, and educational workshops. The event was open to the public who contributed through a ticket fee to the Medway Pride Fund, reflecting a commitment to support Medway Pride Festival to provide a safe and welcoming space for all individuals.
This years theme, reflected on the history of LGBTQIA+ civil and human rights with the founding of the Pride movement that influenced societal change.
Medway Pride 2025 Festival
The Main Pride Event held at Rochester Castle Gardens took place on Saturday 16th August.
The event commenced with a Pride Parade along Rochester High Street that included 32 parade groups, including representatives from our sponsors, community, organisations and members of the community.
The Parade included entertainment from Bloco Fogo Samba Band and community members in the parade.
Following the parade, which completed its journey within Rochester Castle Gardens, the main festival entertainment commenced with opening speeches from Medway Deputy Mayor Cllr Wayne Spring, Leader of Medway Council Vince Maple and Medway Pride Chair Hilary Cooke.
The stage show followed with 8 hours of entertainment provided by national and local acts.
While the show continued, those attending the event had the opportunity to visit the marketplace that included stands from our sponsor organisations, Medway Council services for young people and theatre events, charities and support organisations as well as food, drink and retail outlets.
Medway Pride 2025 Festival Acts
Programme Highlights
Main Stage Performances: Regional and national musical acts, drag shows, and keynote addresses from activists and community leaders offered engaging entertainment and insightful commentary for attendees.
Community Engagement: Numerous organisations delivered resources on support services, health information, and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ rights. Charities, organisations and local groups provided guidance and facilitated connections among participants.
Family Activities: Family-friendly workshops, interactive sessions, face painting, and storytime events ensured an inclusive environment suitable for individuals of all ages.
Parade: The festival parade traversed Rochester High Street, with participants donning vibrant colours and symbols of Pride in support of diversity and acceptance.
Fringe Events: The Fringe Festival enhanced the celebration with cultural events, art installations, and thought-provoking discussions, reinforcing Medway’s commitment to inclusivity.
Medway Pride 2025 Parade Groups
The parade was formed by organised groups including members of the LGBTQIA+ community, Sponsors and Allies.
Medway Pride CIC
Kreston Reeves
The Ship Inn
Tesco
Leatherman of Kent
Henry Schein One UK Ltd
Apex Predators Roller Derby
Nando’s Restaurant’s – East Kent
Porchlight Be You Project / Metro Charity
Medway Community Healthcare
Medway Liberal Democrats
Forward Trust
Labour Party
Wisdom Hospice
Universities at Medway
GDS Productions
LGBTQ+ Society (Medway Universities)
Oasis Domestic Abuse Service
Medway School of Pharmacy
Medway NHS Foundation Trust
State 4 Restaurants Ltd – McDonald’s
Wisdom Hospice, Medway Community Healthcare
MHS Homes
Rochester Quakers
Co-operative Group
The Queen Charlotte Pub Rochester
Silverhand Estate
SECAM Ambulance Service
Springwood Corner Care Home
Kent Fire & Rescue Service
Moat Housing
Medway Pride 2025 Market Place
The following organisations and businesses formed the Marketplace, providing a mix of community support, creative art workshops, food and drink plus retail outlets.
Medway Pride CIC
North Kent Mind
Club Ausome
Smoqe
Co-operative Group
Street fusion
MHS Homes
The Vegan Habit
Avery Healthcare
The Central Theatre
Medway Libraries
Silverhand Estate
Moat
Scoff n Sip Bar
Kent Cider
Medway Deaf Training Ltd
Universities at Medway
Made with love by Charlotte
Charlton Invicta FC
Lucy Chapman
Labour Party
GDS Productions
Gillingham Safe Haven / Medway Safe Haven
Crystal Corner UK
INTRA Arts
Fostering Recruitment & Assessment Team
Youth Service
Enchanted Jem’s Emporium
Poco Loco
Unravel & Unwind C.I.C.
Medway Sexual Health
Like A Magpie
Kent and Medway Talking Therapies
The Historic Dockyard Chatham
Rail Delivery Group
Shopsaggybaggy
Sonny Fletcher Cowsabungus
Blossom Park Facepainting
Rebel Rose Adornments
Medway Parents and Carers Forum
Medway Liberal Democrats
Sunmoon Creations
BE You Project
Glamourize Events
Medway Voluntary Action
Scoff n Sip Food
Kent Association of Foster Carers
Yankee Doodle donuts
Wisdom Hospice Charity
Crown Prosecution Service
Dwarven Wonders
Kent Police LGBT+ Network
Apex Predators Roller Derby
Kent Police, Medway Community Safety Unit
Crocheted By Liv
Kent Fire & Rescue Service
Gems
Medway Council LGBTQIA+ Forum
Scoff n Sip Ice Cream
Rochester Quakers
NHS SECAM
Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Medway Pride Fringe Festival
In addition to the principal festivities, the Medway Pride Fringe Festival, supported by INTRA Community Trust and their sponsors, complemented the main event with a diverse range of cultural and creative activities scheduled in advance of Pride. These included film screenings, art exhibitions, poetry readings, panel discussions, and pop-up performances across various venues throughout Medway. The Fringe Festival provided a valuable opportunity for local artists and grassroots organisations to showcase their work, thereby enriching the overall festival experience.
Full details of the Fringe Pride Program are shown below on this page
Sponsorship and Support
The success of Medway Pride 2025 was made possible through the generous contributions of sponsors and partners. Local businesses, national organisations, and community foundations provided essential financial and logistical support, enabling the expansion of programming and the implementation of robust safety measures. Sponsor involvement was acknowledged throughout the festival, underscoring their commitment to the values of inclusion and equality. The 2025 festival at Rochester Castle was accessible only via ticketing for which a fee was levied for the first time. The funding raised contributed to the Medway Pride Fund managed by Medway Pride CIC to help cover the cost of producing the festival. These public / private contributions along with volunteer time made it possible for the event to take place during a challenging financial backdrop
Sponsors
Medway Pride Fund Community Donations – Medway Council – UK Shared Prosperity Fun
Universities at Medway – Canterbury Christ Church University, Greenwich University, Kent University
Rochester Riverside Community Fund – The Ship Rochester – Giant Stride Graphics
State 4 Restaurants Ltd T/A McDonald’s – Kent Cider – Poco Loco Bar
MHS Homes – Moat Housing – Co-operative Group Limited – Kreston Reeves
Tesco PLC – Henry Schein One – Silverhand Estate – Avery Healthcare
Nando’s – Genesis Recycling Group – PPL PRS Ltd
Impact and Significance
Medway Pride 2025 and its associated Fringe Festival played a significant role in advancing representation and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community within the region. The festival provided a secure setting for individuals to celebrate their identities, develop connections, and learn about pertinent social issues. The economic impact benefited local businesses, while collaboration with organisations promoted education and awareness.
Feedback and Community Response
Responses from participants and stakeholders were highly positive, commending the festival’s inclusive atmosphere, comprehensive programming, and strong sense of community. The integration of the Fringe Festival and active sponsor participation received praise, with recommendations for continued expansion and innovation in subsequent years.
Conclusion
Medway Pride 2025, supported by its Fringe Festival and dedicated sponsors, served as an exemplary model of community celebration and engagement. The ongoing efforts of organisers, volunteers, and partners contribute to a more equitable and unified Medway, ensuring the enduring legacy of Medway Pride for future generations.
I would like to thank everyone who helped Medway Pride CIC to deliver the 2025 pride events in Medway. Our sponsors, grant providers, private donors, partner organisations Nucleus Arts, INTRA Arts, INTRA Community Trust, Medway Council, Artists and Volunteers, Medway Council Events Team, A1 Event Services Ltd, Deadline Security Ltd, Access and Rescue Solutions Ltd, Medway Council traffic management, Speedy Hire, Four Jays Group, Swift Hire, LED Event Screens UK, Brooks Marquee Hire, Giant Stride Graphics.
I look forward to working with you all on future projects.
Kind regards
Hilary Cooke
Chair Medway Pride CIC
Medway Pride CIC Organisation 2025
Medway Pride CIC is a not-for-profit organisation owned and managed by volunteers.
Chair of Directors Hilary Cooke is a founding member of the organisation
Directors
Helanna Chapman (founding member).
New board members2025: Jody Carrington, Dr Angela Stokes, Dr David Stokes, Rachel Norman, Nathan Morgan, Craig Attwater
Events and Projects 2025
Medway Pride CIC organises events and provides support for the LGBTQIA+ communities of Medway and the surrounding area.
Events and projects managed and supported by Medway Pride CIC include:
Medway Pride events
Medway Pride Radio
Medway Pride LGBTQIA+ History Month Exhibitions
Provide contributions to Medway Pride Fringe Festival, Chatham Carnival and other LGBTQIA+ events.
Medway Gender & Sexual Diversity Centre LGBTQIA+ Support project (MGSD Centre)
South East Gender Initiative Transgender and Non-binary gender support project (SEGI)
Medway Pride 2025 Festival Funding
Medway Pride Events 2025
The annual Medway Pride events calendar commences in February with an exhibition held during LGBTQIA+ History Month. The event is held with the support of Nucleus Arts at the Halpern Gallery in Chatham.
This exhibition aims to highlight the history, creativity and issues of the day for the LGBTQIA+ community.
The exhibition is the beginning of Medway Pride and sets the theme we use for the year’s events.
Medway Pride CIC has set the following themes in recent years.
UNITED IN PRIDE
This theme was used for 2021 to 2024. It was a message of unity to resist the challenge from those who wished to separate the LGB from the TQIA parts of the community. We created exhibitions and events to show how the LGBTQIA+ community had come together to fight for civil and human rights for the whole community. It also acted as a call for all communities of Medway to join Medway Pride as Allies to celebrate diversity and inclusion of all.
PRIDE IS A PROTEST & A CELEBRATION
For 2025 we expanded the theme to highlight the history of Pride as a human civil rights movement.
The exhibition highlighted the history of UK law on sexuality and gender identity along with images of members of the community and the fight to change the laws of the day through Pride events.
Medway Pride 2025 Festival
Images from the 2025 February exhibition
There were several community member portraits with their statements about what pride represents to them. The above is a small selection of the images from the exhibition.
The exhibition was also hosted at INTRA Arts during Medway Pride Fringe week, followed by a new exhibition of the placards produced for the Medway Pride Parade highlighting the steps forward and steps backward in changes in law affecting the LGBTQIA+ community from 1957 to 2025.
The placards were a core element of the Medway Pride parade as a representation of the change that the historic protest movement had created.
For February 2026 we will be expanding on the theme to create an exhibition with support from Nucleus Arts who have partnered with Medway Pride to host the exhibition from 19th to 25th of February 2026.
We are looking for community members to help build an oral / written history project reflecting on how the change to equality law has affected and changed their lives.
This may be a reflection from the lived experiences at the time of these changes, or it may be a reflection on how the historic changes have changed their life experiences.
Looking forward to the 2027 Exhibition
Looking forward to 2027 we are planning to create an exhibition that aligns with Rochester 900 Anniversary of the building of the Rochester Castle keep.
We are proud of the connection between Medway Pride & Rochester Castle as the iconic venue for our annual pride festival. For 2027 we are planning to research historic figures who would today fit within the LGBTQIA+ community who have links to Rochester, Medway and the surrounding area. This will include people across the historic to modern timeline.
If you would like to be involved in the creation of any elements of the 2026 or 2027 exhibitions, please contact me at hi****@*********de.uk.
Medway Pride Fringe Festival Events 2025
The aims of Medway Pride Fringe Festival are to give the community in Medway an opportunity to engage with the LGBTQIA+ community through creative arts, workshops, discussions, concerts, film nights and the history of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Medway Pride Fringe Festival was supported by INTRA Community Trust who worked with Jody Carrington (Director Medway Pride) to organise the fringe events and raise funding to support the fringe events and expand the number of events held during the pride week.
Below is a list of the Fringe Pride events
Pride Fringe Week: 9 – 17 August 2025
Saturday 9 August 2025
LGBTeas
Sun Pier House, Medway Street, Chatham, ME4 4HF
Enjoy a FREE cuppa tea! Discover our welcoming venue and café space, with a simple social morning for LGBT families and adults to sit back and relax.
Medway Pride and Medway Pride Fringe at Rochester Artisan Market
Information about Medway Pride & Fringe Events, opportunity to get memorabilia for the festival.
Monday 11 August
Upcycled Accessories Workshop
Intra Arts, 337-341 High Street, Rochester, ME1 1DA
A sociable sewing evening, upcycling old vinyl Medway Pride vinyl banners into a bag or accessory. Basic sewing machine experience is advisable, but the makes only require simple stitching. Refreshments provided.
Pride Question Time – Where Do We Go?
Rochester Corn Exchange
A panel discussion on the way forward for trans inclusive services after the Supreme Court Judgement on the meaning of the words Men, Women & Sex in the Equality Act 2010.
Much Laughter Pride Fringe Comedy Night
Poco Loco, 58-60 High Street, Chatham, ME4 4DS
Join Much Laughter for an unforgettable night of comedy, camaraderie and community. Let’s laugh together and make a difference, one joke at a time.
Film Night – Pride (2014 – Rated 15).
The Ship Inn, 347 High Street, Rochester, ME1 1DA
Screening of historical comedy-drama ‘Pride.’ Popcorn and hotdogs available.
Tuesday 12 August 2025
Prints of Hope – 3D Modelling Workshop
Intra Arts, 337-341 High St, Rochester, ME1 1DA
Join Electric Medway’s creative team to mould your own Pride ‘digital clay’ model on an iPad. Basing it on an object or person that you are proud of, you will then 3D print your model and decorate it. Your work will form part of the Baton of Hope exhibition later this year. No experience or equipment needed.
Lego Legends of the Dockyard: 300 Steps to the River
Sun Pier House, Medway Street, Chatham, ME4 4HF
Join us for this FREE LEGO build workshop. Explore the amazing history and architecture of No.3 Covered Slip and the UK’s largest collection of RNLI historic lifeboats, displayed in No. 4 Slip.
BIG DRAW little people – Ship in a Bottle
Sun Pier House, Medway Street, Chatham, ME4 4HF
Join us for a family art workshop, drawing your own ‘ship in a bottle’ on acetate sheets to create a fun window display. Be inspired by our riverside views and make your mark in our large drawing exhibition of original children’s artwork.
Jam Music Workshop
Poco Loco, 58-60 High Street, Chatham, ME4 4DS
An afternoon of jamming and song learning for aspiring young musicians looking to make their first steps into the music world. Refreshments provided.
‘None but the Lonely Heart’ with pianist Tyler Hay
Chatham Unitarian Church, 2 Hammond Hill, Chatham, ME4 6AP
Stories of the secret queer love lives of great composers in words and music. Featuring music by Lully, Handel, Schubert, Chopin and Tchaikovsky. Complimentary drinks and nibbles.
Life Drawing’s a Drag
Poco Loco, 58 – 60 High Street, Chatham, ME4 4DS
Join the Queens of The Loco Cabaret for a night of drag life drawing. Introduction to basic life drawing provided. Materials will be supplied, but feel free to bring your own.
Join the MESS ROOM team and help create our ‘Blanket of Hope’ with tactile swell drawings symbolising Hope and Pride. Our ‘Blanket of Hope’ is part of the nationwide Baton of Hope project, the UK’s biggest suicide prevention initiative.
The Anchor – Summer Social
Sun Pier House, Medway Street, Chatham, ME4 4HF
THE ANCHOR is more than just a club – it’s a community. A place where young people feel heard, supported, and empowered to shape their own futures. Sun Pier House provides a dynamic space and introduction to the thriving creative network in Medway.
Outing Medway’s Past – History Walk
Meet at Victoria Street, Rochester, ME1 1XH
Join historian Rob Flood on a wander through some of the key places that make up the incredible LGBTQ+ story of the Medway Towns.
Open Mic Night
Poco Loco, 58-60 High Street, Chatham, ME4 4DS
Join in or watch an eclectic assortment of performances.
Songs of Sin and Salvation
The Ship Inn, 347 High Street, Rochester, ME1 1DA
Two gay men bring their voices to songs that tell stories about loving other men. Gary B Lucas and Martin Adams will give an intimate acoustic music performance, interspersed with narratives and readings. This will be followed by music videos embracing queer culture as a backdrop.
Thursday 14 August 2025
Rubbish Idea Pride Flags Workshop
The Pentagon Community Space, The Pentagon Shopping Centre, Chatham, ME4 4HY
Eco artist Kieran Poole makes mosaics using littered lids and is bringing the opportunity for you to make colourful Pride flags using them.
Make-up Techniques for Trans and Drag Presentation – PLUS Late Night Shopping
GSA Emporium, 1-9 High Street, Chatham, ME4 4EN
Join Luna Howl and our specialist make-up artists as you’re taken through the tips and tricks of Trans Fem and Drag makeup. There will be live tutorials and demonstrations to show how best to snatch your mug. With exclusive use of the GSA Emporium, treat yourself to a new outfit to compliment your look.
Outing Medway’s Past – History Walk
See previous text on Wednesdays event
Sun Pier Sounds
Sun Pier House, Medway Street, Chatham, ME4 4HF Laid-back, live music from local musicians.
Join us for a handpicked selection of singer songwriters at our unique venue.
Shiny Printy Pride Drinkies
Intra Arts, 337 – 341 High Street, Rochester, ME1 1DA
Join our printing party and get sparkly for Medway Pride! Enjoy screen printing fun decorating a colourful T-shirt with a Pride slogan of your own invention and adding shiny foil printed patterns. With delicious cocktails on sale throughout the evening from a pop-up Poco Loco cocktail bar, and a Medway Pride Radio playlist to bring the party mood.
Friday 15 August 2025
Story Time with Mama G and Petite Pantos
Sun Pier House, Medway Street, Chatham, ME4 4HF
Mama G will be sharing original stories and songs, and some of the best picture books on the market, in an uplifting story time for the whole family. There’ll be dancing and giggles galore as Mama G shares the power of being who you want and loving who you are!
Spotlites Theatre Company presents ‘Boy Stroke Girl’ by Ian Dixon-Potter
Spotlites Theatre, 338 High Street, Chatham, ME4 4NR
A provocative tale of love in the contemporary world. When Peter meets Blue, an instant connection sparks between them, igniting the possibility of romance. However, there’s one lingering question: is Blue a boy or a girl?
Hellbound Promotions Pride Fringe Gig
Poco Loco, 58-60 High Street, Chatham, ME4 4DS
Live music from local, queer represented rock, punk and psych bands Bitches Ahoy, Luna Lacuna
and Larry 73
Pre-Pride Party
The Ship Inn, 347-349 High Street, Rochester, ME1 1DA
With DJ Fanny Fresh and Drag With No Name.
Saturday 16 August 2025
Carabiner Charm Making
Bodega 51, 51 High Street, Rochester ME1 1LN
Casual social session and safe space for queer women, hosted by Lavenders – Rochester’s new lesbian social. Trans and non-binary inclusive.
Pride Afterparty in the Garden with Medway Drag Queens
Bodega 51, 51 High Street, Rochester, ME1 1LN
Hosted by Sket from Loco Cabaret, with special guest River Medway.
Medway Pride Official Afterparty
The Ship Inn, 347-349 High Street, Rochester, ME1 1DA
With DJ Fanny Fresh, Electric Blue and Melissa Totten as Madonna.
The Loco Cabaret Medway Pride Afterparty
Poco Loco, 58-60 High Street, Chatham, ME4 4DS
Medway’s home for alternative drag and burlesque with special guests.
Financial account for Medway Pride 25
2025 has been a challenging year for pride organisations with a rise in demand for grant funding nationwide due to the many cultural events being held during the year, along with some organisations cutting back on EDI funding affecting sponsorship of events.
This led some pride events across the country to cancel their events or reduced them in size due to financial restraints.
Medway Pride CIC have been fortunate to have funding partners / sponsors who have continued to provide funds for our organisation, including new sponsors joining to support this year’s pride.
We were also supported through community donations and fundraisers organised by local businesses. Medway Council helped us to source grant funding and provided help, along with others to offer ‘in kind’ services. Medway Pride CIC charged a ticket fee for the first time this year which helped increase our funds to deliver the event. Thank you to all who contributed to the Medway Pride Fund which enabled us to provide a full programme of events.
Medway Pride 2025 Fund Open
Medway Pride Lottery Fund
Support Medway Pride 2025 Fund Play the Medway Pride Lottery with a chance to win £25,000
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Medway Pride 2025 Report
Medway Pride 2025 Festival Report
Celebrating Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement
Introduction
Medway Pride 2025 was a prominent celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community, dedicated to advancing diversity, inclusion, and unity within Medway and its surrounding areas. The festival continues to serve as a vital platform for promoting equality and fostering respect among all members of the community.
Festival Overview
The 2025 festival took place in Rochester, Medway, drawing thousands of participants and visitors from Kent and beyond. The programme featured an extensive array of live music, drag performances, community engagement stalls, food vendors, and educational workshops. The event was open to the public who contributed through a ticket fee to the Medway Pride Fund, reflecting a commitment to support Medway Pride Festival to provide a safe and welcoming space for all individuals.
This years theme, reflected on the history of LGBTQIA+ civil and human rights with the founding of the Pride movement that influenced societal change.
Medway Pride 2025 Festival
The Main Pride Event held at Rochester Castle Gardens took place on Saturday 16th August.
The event commenced with a Pride Parade along Rochester High Street that included 32 parade groups, including representatives from our sponsors, community, organisations and members of the community.
The Parade included entertainment from Bloco Fogo Samba Band and community members in the parade.
Following the parade, which completed its journey within Rochester Castle Gardens, the main festival entertainment commenced with opening speeches from Medway Deputy Mayor Cllr Wayne Spring, Leader of Medway Council Vince Maple and Medway Pride Chair Hilary Cooke.
The stage show followed with 8 hours of entertainment provided by national and local acts.
While the show continued, those attending the event had the opportunity to visit the marketplace that included stands from our sponsor organisations, Medway Council services for young people and theatre events, charities and support organisations as well as food, drink and retail outlets.
Medway Pride 2025 Festival Acts
Programme Highlights
Medway Pride 2025 Parade Groups
The parade was formed by organised groups including members of the LGBTQIA+ community, Sponsors and Allies.
Medway Pride 2025 Market Place
The following organisations and businesses formed the Marketplace, providing a mix of community support, creative art workshops, food and drink plus retail outlets.
Medway Pride Fringe Festival
In addition to the principal festivities, the Medway Pride Fringe Festival, supported by INTRA Community Trust and their sponsors, complemented the main event with a diverse range of cultural and creative activities scheduled in advance of Pride. These included film screenings, art exhibitions, poetry readings, panel discussions, and pop-up performances across various venues throughout Medway. The Fringe Festival provided a valuable opportunity for local artists and grassroots organisations to showcase their work, thereby enriching the overall festival experience.
Full details of the Fringe Pride Program are shown below on this page
Sponsorship and Support
The success of Medway Pride 2025 was made possible through the generous contributions of sponsors and partners. Local businesses, national organisations, and community foundations provided essential financial and logistical support, enabling the expansion of programming and the implementation of robust safety measures. Sponsor involvement was acknowledged throughout the festival, underscoring their commitment to the values of inclusion and equality. The 2025 festival at Rochester Castle was accessible only via ticketing for which a fee was levied for the first time. The funding raised contributed to the Medway Pride Fund managed by Medway Pride CIC to help cover the cost of producing the festival. These public / private contributions along with volunteer time made it possible for the event to take place during a challenging financial backdrop
Sponsors
Medway Pride Fund Community Donations – Medway Council – UK Shared Prosperity Fun
Universities at Medway – Canterbury Christ Church University, Greenwich University, Kent University
Rochester Riverside Community Fund – The Ship Rochester – Giant Stride Graphics
State 4 Restaurants Ltd T/A McDonald’s – Kent Cider – Poco Loco Bar
MHS Homes – Moat Housing – Co-operative Group Limited – Kreston Reeves
Tesco PLC – Henry Schein One – Silverhand Estate – Avery Healthcare
Nando’s – Genesis Recycling Group – PPL PRS Ltd
Impact and Significance
Medway Pride 2025 and its associated Fringe Festival played a significant role in advancing representation and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community within the region. The festival provided a secure setting for individuals to celebrate their identities, develop connections, and learn about pertinent social issues. The economic impact benefited local businesses, while collaboration with organisations promoted education and awareness.
Feedback and Community Response
Responses from participants and stakeholders were highly positive, commending the festival’s inclusive atmosphere, comprehensive programming, and strong sense of community. The integration of the Fringe Festival and active sponsor participation received praise, with recommendations for continued expansion and innovation in subsequent years.
Conclusion
Medway Pride 2025, supported by its Fringe Festival and dedicated sponsors, served as an exemplary model of community celebration and engagement. The ongoing efforts of organisers, volunteers, and partners contribute to a more equitable and unified Medway, ensuring the enduring legacy of Medway Pride for future generations.
I would like to thank everyone who helped Medway Pride CIC to deliver the 2025 pride events in Medway. Our sponsors, grant providers, private donors, partner organisations Nucleus Arts, INTRA Arts, INTRA Community Trust, Medway Council, Artists and Volunteers, Medway Council Events Team, A1 Event Services Ltd, Deadline Security Ltd, Access and Rescue Solutions Ltd, Medway Council traffic management, Speedy Hire, Four Jays Group, Swift Hire, LED Event Screens UK, Brooks Marquee Hire, Giant Stride Graphics.
I look forward to working with you all on future projects.
Kind regards
Hilary Cooke
Chair Medway Pride CIC
Medway Pride CIC Organisation 2025
Medway Pride CIC is a not-for-profit organisation owned and managed by volunteers.
Chair of Directors Hilary Cooke is a founding member of the organisation
Directors
Helanna Chapman (founding member).
New board members 2025: Jody Carrington, Dr Angela Stokes, Dr David Stokes, Rachel Norman, Nathan Morgan, Craig Attwater
Events and Projects 2025
Medway Pride CIC organises events and provides support for the LGBTQIA+ communities of Medway and the surrounding area.
Events and projects managed and supported by Medway Pride CIC include:
Medway Pride events
Medway Pride Radio
Medway Pride LGBTQIA+ History Month Exhibitions
Provide contributions to Medway Pride Fringe Festival, Chatham Carnival and other LGBTQIA+ events.
Medway Gender & Sexual Diversity Centre LGBTQIA+ Support project (MGSD Centre)
South East Gender Initiative Transgender and Non-binary gender support project (SEGI)
Medway Pride 2025 Festival Funding
Medway Pride Events 2025
The annual Medway Pride events calendar commences in February with an exhibition held during LGBTQIA+ History Month. The event is held with the support of Nucleus Arts at the Halpern Gallery in Chatham.
This exhibition aims to highlight the history, creativity and issues of the day for the LGBTQIA+ community.
The exhibition is the beginning of Medway Pride and sets the theme we use for the year’s events.
Medway Pride CIC has set the following themes in recent years.
UNITED IN PRIDE
This theme was used for 2021 to 2024. It was a message of unity to resist the challenge from those who wished to separate the LGB from the TQIA parts of the community. We created exhibitions and events to show how the LGBTQIA+ community had come together to fight for civil and human rights for the whole community. It also acted as a call for all communities of Medway to join Medway Pride as Allies to celebrate diversity and inclusion of all.
PRIDE IS A PROTEST & A CELEBRATION
For 2025 we expanded the theme to highlight the history of Pride as a human civil rights movement.
The exhibition highlighted the history of UK law on sexuality and gender identity along with images of members of the community and the fight to change the laws of the day through Pride events.
Medway Pride 2025 Festival
Images from the 2025 February exhibition
There were several community member portraits with their statements about what pride represents to them. The above is a small selection of the images from the exhibition.
The exhibition was also hosted at INTRA Arts during Medway Pride Fringe week, followed by a new exhibition of the placards produced for the Medway Pride Parade highlighting the steps forward and steps backward in changes in law affecting the LGBTQIA+ community from 1957 to 2025.
The placards were a core element of the Medway Pride parade as a representation of the change that the historic protest movement had created.
Medway Pride 2026 Exhibition
For February 2026 we will be expanding on the theme to create an exhibition with support from Nucleus Arts who have partnered with Medway Pride to host the exhibition from 19th to 25th of February 2026.
We are looking for community members to help build an oral / written history project reflecting on how the change to equality law has affected and changed their lives.
This may be a reflection from the lived experiences at the time of these changes, or it may be a reflection on how the historic changes have changed their life experiences.
Looking forward to the 2027 Exhibition
Looking forward to 2027 we are planning to create an exhibition that aligns with Rochester 900 Anniversary of the building of the Rochester Castle keep.
We are proud of the connection between Medway Pride & Rochester Castle as the iconic venue for our annual pride festival. For 2027 we are planning to research historic figures who would today fit within the LGBTQIA+ community who have links to Rochester, Medway and the surrounding area. This will include people across the historic to modern timeline.
If you would like to be involved in the creation of any elements of the 2026 or 2027 exhibitions, please contact me at hi****@*********de.uk.
Medway Pride Fringe Festival Events 2025
The aims of Medway Pride Fringe Festival are to give the community in Medway an opportunity to engage with the LGBTQIA+ community through creative arts, workshops, discussions, concerts, film nights and the history of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Medway Pride Fringe Festival was supported by INTRA Community Trust who worked with Jody Carrington (Director Medway Pride) to organise the fringe events and raise funding to support the fringe events and expand the number of events held during the pride week.
Below is a list of the Fringe Pride events
Pride Fringe Week: 9 – 17 August 2025
Saturday 9 August 2025
LGBTeas
Sun Pier House, Medway Street, Chatham, ME4 4HF
Enjoy a FREE cuppa tea! Discover our welcoming venue and café space, with a simple social morning for LGBT families and adults to sit back and relax.
Medway Pride and Medway Pride Fringe at Rochester Artisan Market
Information about Medway Pride & Fringe Events, opportunity to get memorabilia for the festival.
Monday 11 August
Upcycled Accessories Workshop
Intra Arts, 337-341 High Street, Rochester, ME1 1DA
A sociable sewing evening, upcycling old vinyl Medway Pride vinyl banners into a bag or accessory. Basic sewing machine experience is advisable, but the makes only require simple stitching. Refreshments provided.
Pride Question Time – Where Do We Go?
Rochester Corn Exchange
A panel discussion on the way forward for trans inclusive services after the Supreme Court Judgement on the meaning of the words Men, Women & Sex in the Equality Act 2010.
Much Laughter Pride Fringe Comedy Night
Poco Loco, 58-60 High Street, Chatham, ME4 4DS
Join Much Laughter for an unforgettable night of comedy, camaraderie and community. Let’s laugh together and make a difference, one joke at a time.
Film Night – Pride (2014 – Rated 15).
The Ship Inn, 347 High Street, Rochester, ME1 1DA
Screening of historical comedy-drama ‘Pride.’ Popcorn and hotdogs available.
Tuesday 12 August 2025
Prints of Hope – 3D Modelling Workshop
Intra Arts, 337-341 High St, Rochester, ME1 1DA
Join Electric Medway’s creative team to mould your own Pride ‘digital clay’ model on an iPad. Basing it on an object or person that you are proud of, you will then 3D print your model and decorate it. Your work will form part of the Baton of Hope exhibition later this year. No experience or equipment needed.
Lego Legends of the Dockyard: 300 Steps to the River
Sun Pier House, Medway Street, Chatham, ME4 4HF
Join us for this FREE LEGO build workshop. Explore the amazing history and architecture of No.3 Covered Slip and the UK’s largest collection of RNLI historic lifeboats, displayed in No. 4 Slip.
BIG DRAW little people – Ship in a Bottle
Sun Pier House, Medway Street, Chatham, ME4 4HF
Join us for a family art workshop, drawing your own ‘ship in a bottle’ on acetate sheets to create a fun window display. Be inspired by our riverside views and make your mark in our large drawing exhibition of original children’s artwork.
Jam Music Workshop
Poco Loco, 58-60 High Street, Chatham, ME4 4DS
An afternoon of jamming and song learning for aspiring young musicians looking to make their first steps into the music world. Refreshments provided.
‘None but the Lonely Heart’ with pianist Tyler Hay
Chatham Unitarian Church, 2 Hammond Hill, Chatham, ME4 6AP
Stories of the secret queer love lives of great composers in words and music. Featuring music by Lully, Handel, Schubert, Chopin and Tchaikovsky. Complimentary drinks and nibbles.
Life Drawing’s a Drag
Poco Loco, 58 – 60 High Street, Chatham, ME4 4DS
Join the Queens of The Loco Cabaret for a night of drag life drawing. Introduction to basic life drawing provided. Materials will be supplied, but feel free to bring your own.
Wednesday 13 August 2025
‘Blanket of Hope’ Workshop with MESS ROOM
MESS ROOM, Ground Floor, Sun Pier House, Medway Street, Chatham, ME4 4HF
Join the MESS ROOM team and help create our ‘Blanket of Hope’ with tactile swell drawings symbolising Hope and Pride. Our ‘Blanket of Hope’ is part of the nationwide Baton of Hope project, the UK’s biggest suicide prevention initiative.
The Anchor – Summer Social
Sun Pier House, Medway Street, Chatham, ME4 4HF
THE ANCHOR is more than just a club – it’s a community. A place where young people feel heard, supported, and empowered to shape their own futures. Sun Pier House provides a dynamic space and introduction to the thriving creative network in Medway.
Outing Medway’s Past – History Walk
Meet at Victoria Street, Rochester, ME1 1XH
Join historian Rob Flood on a wander through some of the key places that make up the incredible LGBTQ+ story of the Medway Towns.
Open Mic Night
Poco Loco, 58-60 High Street, Chatham, ME4 4DS
Join in or watch an eclectic assortment of performances.
Songs of Sin and Salvation
The Ship Inn, 347 High Street, Rochester, ME1 1DA
Two gay men bring their voices to songs that tell stories about loving other men. Gary B Lucas and Martin Adams will give an intimate acoustic music performance, interspersed with narratives and readings. This will be followed by music videos embracing queer culture as a backdrop.
Thursday 14 August 2025
Rubbish Idea Pride Flags Workshop
The Pentagon Community Space, The Pentagon Shopping Centre, Chatham, ME4 4HY
Eco artist Kieran Poole makes mosaics using littered lids and is bringing the opportunity for you to make colourful Pride flags using them.
Make-up Techniques for Trans and Drag Presentation – PLUS Late Night Shopping
GSA Emporium, 1-9 High Street, Chatham, ME4 4EN
Join Luna Howl and our specialist make-up artists as you’re taken through the tips and tricks of Trans Fem and Drag makeup. There will be live tutorials and demonstrations to show how best to snatch your mug. With exclusive use of the GSA Emporium, treat yourself to a new outfit to compliment your look.
Outing Medway’s Past – History Walk
See previous text on Wednesdays event
Sun Pier Sounds
Sun Pier House, Medway Street, Chatham, ME4 4HF Laid-back, live music from local musicians.
Join us for a handpicked selection of singer songwriters at our unique venue.
Shiny Printy Pride Drinkies
Intra Arts, 337 – 341 High Street, Rochester, ME1 1DA
Join our printing party and get sparkly for Medway Pride! Enjoy screen printing fun decorating a colourful T-shirt with a Pride slogan of your own invention and adding shiny foil printed patterns. With delicious cocktails on sale throughout the evening from a pop-up Poco Loco cocktail bar, and a Medway Pride Radio playlist to bring the party mood.
Friday 15 August 2025
Story Time with Mama G and Petite Pantos
Sun Pier House, Medway Street, Chatham, ME4 4HF
Mama G will be sharing original stories and songs, and some of the best picture books on the market, in an uplifting story time for the whole family. There’ll be dancing and giggles galore as Mama G shares the power of being who you want and loving who you are!
Spotlites Theatre Company presents ‘Boy Stroke Girl’ by Ian Dixon-Potter
Spotlites Theatre, 338 High Street, Chatham, ME4 4NR
A provocative tale of love in the contemporary world. When Peter meets Blue, an instant connection sparks between them, igniting the possibility of romance. However, there’s one lingering question: is Blue a boy or a girl?
Hellbound Promotions Pride Fringe Gig
Poco Loco, 58-60 High Street, Chatham, ME4 4DS
Live music from local, queer represented rock, punk and psych bands Bitches Ahoy, Luna Lacuna
and Larry 73
Pre-Pride Party
The Ship Inn, 347-349 High Street, Rochester, ME1 1DA
With DJ Fanny Fresh and Drag With No Name.
Saturday 16 August 2025
Carabiner Charm Making
Bodega 51, 51 High Street, Rochester ME1 1LN
Casual social session and safe space for queer women, hosted by Lavenders – Rochester’s new lesbian social. Trans and non-binary inclusive.
Pride Afterparty in the Garden with Medway Drag Queens
Bodega 51, 51 High Street, Rochester, ME1 1LN
Hosted by Sket from Loco Cabaret, with special guest River Medway.
Medway Pride Official Afterparty
The Ship Inn, 347-349 High Street, Rochester, ME1 1DA
With DJ Fanny Fresh, Electric Blue and Melissa Totten as Madonna.
The Loco Cabaret Medway Pride Afterparty
Poco Loco, 58-60 High Street, Chatham, ME4 4DS
Medway’s home for alternative drag and burlesque with special guests.
Financial account for Medway Pride 25
2025 has been a challenging year for pride organisations with a rise in demand for grant funding nationwide due to the many cultural events being held during the year, along with some organisations cutting back on EDI funding affecting sponsorship of events.
This led some pride events across the country to cancel their events or reduced them in size due to financial restraints.
Medway Pride CIC have been fortunate to have funding partners / sponsors who have continued to provide funds for our organisation, including new sponsors joining to support this year’s pride.
We were also supported through community donations and fundraisers organised by local businesses. Medway Council helped us to source grant funding and provided help, along with others to offer ‘in kind’ services. Medway Pride CIC charged a ticket fee for the first time this year which helped increase our funds to deliver the event. Thank you to all who contributed to the Medway Pride Fund which enabled us to provide a full programme of events.
Medway Pride 2025 Fund Open
Medway Pride Lottery Fund
Support Medway Pride 2025 Fund Play the Medway Pride Lottery with a chance to win £25,000
Play the Medway Pride Lottery
About This Site
This website is managed by Medway Pride CIC to promote Medway Pride events and services for the LGBTQI
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