OUT North East

OUT North East is a community-led LGBTQI+ charity working across the North East of England to create safer, more inclusive and connected communities. The organisation brings people together through support services, education, well-being activities, campaigning, creative projects and community events. Their work focuses on ensuring LGBTQI+ people, their families, friends and allies are able to thrive, feel connected and access meaningful support throughout the year. 

Pride events:

During Pride Month in June, OUT North East delivers large-scale Pride celebrations across the region, including Pride events in Gateshead, South Tyneside and Sunderland. These events bring together communities, businesses, artists, performers, activists and families through a programme of free activities, performances, wellbeing events, discussions, exhibitions and public celebrations. Their Pride festivals have attracted thousands of people and have become an important part of the North East’s cultural calendar.

The ONE Centre- the regions first ever LGBTQI+ community centre for the LGBTQI+ community and our allies:

For the rest of the year, OUT North East operates the ONE Centre, an LGBTQI+ community hub designed to provide a welcoming, safe and inclusive space for people of all ages and backgrounds. The centre focuses on connection, wellbeing, creativity and reducing isolation by giving people somewhere they can meet others, access support and take part in community activities. 

Based in Pelaw, Gateshead, the ONE Centre acts as a year-round community space where people can drop in, socialise, access information and take part in activities that promote confidence, wellbeing and belonging. The charity describes the centre as a place built “by and for the community,” helping LGBTQI+ people feel supported, visible and connected. 

Services and activities:

The ONE Centre delivers a wide range of regular services and activities, including:

• A full-time daily drop-in service from 10am onwards, offering a safe and welcoming space for people to access support, social connection and guidance.
• LGBTQI+ parent and toddler groups, helping families build friendships and supportive networks.
• LGBTQI+ youth groups for young people aged 11–18, creating safe spaces for young people to socialise, learn and build confidence.
• Well-being activities including yoga and kickboxing sessions.
• Arts and crafts workshops and creative sessions designed to encourage expression, creativity and community participation. We have an Artist in Residence who offers glass making and painting workshops.
• LGBTQI+ book clubs, creating opportunities for discussion, learning and community connection through literature and shared experiences. It is a 'bring what you are reading' approach, so you don not have to stick with a particular book.
• Natterflix sessions — relaxed social gatherings where community members come together to watch films, television programmes or documentaries in a welcoming environment, followed by informal conversation, discussion and connection. The sessions help reduce isolation and provide low-pressure opportunities for people to meet others and build friendships.
• An LGBTQI+ migrants group called OASNE, supporting LGBTQI+ refugees, people seeking asylum, international students and migrants through peer support, social connection and community integration.
• Board games nights, offering fun and inclusive social spaces where people can meet new friends, relax and build confidence in a supportive environment.
• Community events, social groups and workshops throughout the year.
• Signposting and guidance to specialist support organisations and services.
• Opportunities for volunteering, campaigning, media projects and community-led initiatives.

It is also the home of Pride Radio, and has on-site, podcasting studios for audio and video podcasting.

OUT North East’s work is centred around creating visible, supportive and inclusive spaces where LGBTQI+ people, and allies, across the North East can build friendships, improve well-being, celebrate identity and feel part of a wider community. Through both their regional Pride festivals and the ongoing work of the ONE Centre, the organisation continues to strengthen LGBTQI+ visibility, inclusion and community connection across the region.

Check out our calendar of events at the ONE Centre by clicking here.

We also have spaces to book, which can be found by clicking here.