Renew Counselling and Training

Pride Month 2026: A message from Renew

It’s Pride Month, a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, by honouring its history and recognising how important visibility is. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on the challenges that many members of the community continue to face.

The world can feel overwhelming and Pride Month can bring up difficult emotions for some people. Public debates and negative rhetoric can leave individuals feeling isolated or misunderstood.

If this resonates with you, we want you to know that you are not alone.

Seeking support can feel like a big step. You may be feeling nervous about what counselling will involve or even relieved that you’re finally reaching out after carrying things on your own for so long.

Whatever you’re feeling, your emotions are valid.

Taking the decision to start counselling is an act of courage. It’s a way of prioritising your wellbeing by giving yourself the chance to explore how you’re feeling in a safe, supportive environment.

At Renew, our aim is to provide a welcoming space where people can speak openly without fear of judgement. Support is available, whether you’re:

  • Exploring your identity
  • Navigating relationships
  • Coping with anxiety
  • Managing the impact of discrimination or
  • Looking for someone to talk to

Everyone deserves the opportunity to live authentically and safely.

In a world where negative voices can sometimes seem loud, we’re proud to add our voice to those who promote understanding, empathy and inclusion.

This Pride Month, we encourage everyone to spread love rather than hate, to listen with compassion and to stand alongside those who may be struggling. And if you’re finding things difficult, please remember that reaching out for help is never a sign of weakness.

This Pride Month, start the conversation

We’re here for you, if you’re feeling unsure about where to turn or simply need someone to talk to. Please reach out. You don’t need a referral – we are an open access service and have a range of counsellors to suit your needs.  

You can click here to contact your closest centre.