Stay protected and plan forward for Pride 2025

As we get able to host Pride 2025, bear in mind to plan forward and benefit from the occasion safely and responsibly.

As one of many largest and hottest Pride occasions within the nation, it’s anticipated to be a busy weekend within the metropolis.

Councillor Mitchie Alexander, Cabinet member for Communities, Equalities, Public Health and Adult Social Care, stated: “Pride is a time to rejoice our superb LGBTQ+ communities and the robust values of equality that outline our inclusive metropolis. Brighton & Hove is proud to be welcoming to each particular person, and we wish all residents and guests to have a joyful, protected and respectful Pride 2025.

“Please take care of yourselves and keep an eye out for others too – particularly those who may be distressed or appear vulnerable.”

A spread of well being and wellbeing companies will likely be providing assist over the weekend, however residents are reminded to choose the right service for their needs so the NHS can care for those that need it.

Please solely dial 999 or use A&E if it’s a critical or life-threatening emergency. Medical assist is on the market at Preston Park, the Pride Street Party, pharmacies, Safe Space and Brighton Station Medical Centre.

Look after one another

Decide on a gathering level in a quieter space in case you get separated and let somebody know in the event you’re going to depart the group or head dwelling.

If you see somebody who seems to be like they’re struggling, ask in the event that they’re okay and direct them to assist in the event that they want it. Stewards and safety employees will likely be round Pride venues that will help you.

Keep cool and keep hydrated

Avoid dehydration, overheating and a foul hangover by consuming loads of water.

You can take an empty refillable water bottle into Pride occasions and there are water factors within the park and within the metropolis centre, or ask for water from bars.

The forecast is at the moment blended, so be ready for all climate.

Bring heat and waterproof clothes, and if the solar does come out, use suncream and look out for sunburn or warmth exhaustion in your self and mates.

Pace your self and know your limits

Have time, however know when to cease consuming or name it an evening.

To cut back your threat of overdose, keep away from mixing medication with different medication, alcohol or prescription remedy.

Remember that it’s by no means protected to enter the ocean once you’ve been consuming alcohol or taken medication. 

Protect your self from STIs

Cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are rising.

The greatest approach to take care of your sexual well being and keep away from getting an STI is to make use of safety and get examined frequently, even in case you are not exhibiting any signs.

Free condoms can be found on the park or in LGBTQ+ venues within the metropolis.

Don’t really feel pressured into doing one thing you don’t need to

Alcohol and medicines can impair your judgement – don’t really feel pressured into consuming, taking medication, having intercourse or going someplace you don’t really feel snug. If you’re not all for doing one thing your pals are doing, keep in mind that you don’t should.

If you want first help, medical assist or assist

First help groups and medical centres are supplied by means of St John’s Ambulance in Preston Park and Epione Medical Services on the Pride Street Party. Most issues might be handled on website. A steward can direct you or help you to get to them.

Safe Space

A quiet area with assist for anybody who’s feeling distressed, intoxicated, injured, has misplaced mates, must cost a telephone or is unable to get dwelling. Open Friday from 11.30pm to 4am and Saturday 10.30pm to 5am at St Paul’s Church, West Street BN1 2RQ.

Ru-ok?

ru-ok? will run free drop-in clinics for younger individuals beneath 18 on the Adolescent Service workplace at 1 Regency Road on Friday from 12pm to 4pm and on Tuesday fifth August from 12 midday to 4pm.

TDC service and youth bus

Trust for Developing Communities (TDC) will run a Youth Welfare service exterior of the Pride pageant grounds at Preston Park from 12pm to 5pm on Saturday and TDC’s Youth Bus will likely be primarily based on the southern finish of Preston Road, offering meals, drink, condoms, suncream, telephone charging and different gadgets, all freed from cost to 11- to 19-year-olds.

You may also:

Visit a pharmacy for recommendation and over-the-counter medicines for minor well being considerations, corresponding to sunburn, abdomen ache, a headache or hay fever.

Call NHS 111 or go to www.111.nhs.uk for twenty-four/7 medical recommendation or details about which native companies to make use of.

Walk-in at Brighton Station Health Centre for pressing remedy. Open 8am to 8pm day by day and also you don’t must be a registered affected person.

Call the Samaritans on 116 123 in case you are experiencing misery or need to speak to somebody.