Pride in North Cumbria (PiNC) is a dynamic charity dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ young people aged 13 to 25 across Cumbria. With over 20 years of experience, PiNC creates safe, inclusive spaces where youth can connect, express themselves, and access vital services.
OUR MISSION AND GOALS
Goal One
Creating Safe, Inclusive, and Creative Spaces for LGBTQIA+ Youth through multi-institutional partnerships
Goal Two
Celebrate the rich diversity of gender, sexuality, and identity in all its forms
Goal Three
Advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and challenge inequality wherever it exists
PiNC’s History - Our Story
2003 - PiNC was developed by Outreach Cumbria and the NHS, as they identified that there were no services for young LGBT people in Cumbria. The organisation wasn’t called PiNC at this time.
2009 - Pam is employed by PiNC on 1 October 2009, with PiNC based at Fisher Street in Carlisle.
2010 - Barrow Protests - PiNC attends protests in Barrow to support the LGBTQIA+ community. The protests were held over an increase in homophobic and transphobic attacks in Barrow.
2010 - Manchester Pride - PiNC attends the Manchester Pride event with the LGF Enough is Enough campaign.
2010 - PiNCnic - Carlisle’s FIRST ever pride event! 31st July 2010.
2012 - Trip to Blackpool Pride in June.
2013 - Our young people take a trip to Istmus Cottage to help develop the LGBT 2013 survey.
2013 - Pam receives an Honorary fellowship from the University of Cumbria for her work with the LGBT community.
2014 - Youth Games. 150 young people from across the North west and Scotland identifying as LGBT+ attended the event hosted by PiNC.
2019 - A collaboration between PiNC and Carlisle Library is launched. The development of a LGBT section within the library.
2025 - Our website has been updated by Cj and Stuart, allowing us to showcase our history and all that we have accomplished over the years.
Trustee’s - Meet the Trustee’s
Neil Robinson - Chair
Hi, I’m Neil!
I’m a retired teacher who now enjoys being part of several quiz teams and supporting the social events that PiNC runs. I take pride in helping to look after the charity, whether that’s through mediation, funding applications, or just lending a hand where it’s needed. I’m out and proud to be part of the LGBTQ+ community and passionate about supporting the work PiNC does.
Dennis Thompson - Treasurer
Hi, I’m Dennis!
Before retiring I worked on the railways. I’m a big quiz fan and love to travel whenever I can. At PiNC, I look after the finances and help make the key financial decisions. I’m out and proud to be part of the LGBTQ+ community and proud to support the work PiNC does.
Matty Smith - Secretary
Hi, I’m Matty!
I’ve been part of PiNC for around 4 years, starting as a volunteer before becoming a trustee and now secretary. I love organising events, fundraising, and finding creative ways to support the charity. Outside of PiNC, I work at Sainsbury’s, call bingo at Opera Bingo. .I’m out and proud to be part of the LGBTQ+ community and share life with my partner Stuart and our three dogs and three cats..
Alison Owen - Trustee
Hi, I’m Alison!
I’ve been involved with PiNC for 2 years, now serving as a trustee and one of the safeguarding leads. I have lots of experience volunteering with youth and community groups and love bringing that to my role. Outside of PiNC, I’m part of a drumming group and involved in the local festival scene, where I also promote the project at festivals and community events. I’m proud to be part of the LGBTQ+ community and support the work PiNC does.
Friends and Funders
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