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In a significant recognition of its impactful work, The Rainbow Project, a Belfast-based charity dedicated to improving the physical and mental wellbeing of LGBTQIA+ individuals, has been honoured with one of the UK’s most prestigious health awards. Claiming a GSK IMPACT Award, this accolade highlights the organisation's outstanding contributions to health and care within the LGBTQIA+ community across Northern Ireland. This award is particularly significant as it elevates small and medium-sized charities with a national spotlight, distinguishing The Rainbow Project from other recognitions in the field.
Supported by global biopharma company GSK in collaboration with The King’s Fund, the GSK IMPACT Awards celebrate excellence among charities that tirelessly work to enhance people’s health and wellbeing. With its roots firmly set in Northern Ireland, The Rainbow Project operates amid a backdrop of complex socio-political dynamics that have historically delayed LGBTQIA+ rights in the region. Recent legislative changes, such as the introduction of marriage equality in 2020, have marked progress, yet challenges remain.
Northern Ireland has been slower in embracing reforms compared to the rest of the UK, having been the last to decriminalise homosexuality and legalise same-sex marriage. These delays have led to adverse health outcomes within the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly concerning mental health. A recent survey conducted by The Rainbow Project among over 1,100 members revealed stark statistics: 39% reported self-harm, 45% experienced suicidal thoughts, and 65% suffered from depression.
The Rainbow Project stood out among a record number of entries to secure this award, which includes £40,000 in unrestricted funding and access to a coveted leadership development programme by The King’s Fund. Integral to their winning bid was the co-cultural counselling service they provide—the only one of its kind in Northern Ireland—which offers LGBTQIA+ affirmative care through counsellors who are themselves members of the community. Testimonies from service users praised the service as life-changing, with one individual stating,
"For the first time, I felt completely understood and supported."
As demand for these services has doubled over the past year, the charity's strategic partnerships and innovative programmes have proven essential. This surge reflects the increased visibility and awareness of LGBTQIA+ issues along with recent socio-economic challenges. Among these initiatives is the Cancer Champions programme developed with Macmillan Cancer Support. This initiative not only promotes cancer screening but also supports trans and non-binary individuals in accessing breast screening through accessible guidance.
Scott Cuthbertson, CEO of The Rainbow Project, expressed his elation at receiving the award, stating,
“We have worked hard to build an organisation that meets the needs of the communities we serve, while standing resilient to the challenges faced in Northern Ireland."
He underscored the importance of continued impact, particularly during challenging financial times when demand for charitable services is rising sharply.
Established in 1994 initially to address concerns about HIV among gay men, The Rainbow Project has since expanded to offer comprehensive support across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. Services include online and in-person counselling, employability advice, and educational training for professionals. In the past year alone, the charity delivered over 1,700 counselling sessions, distributed more than 30,000 safer sex packs, and conducted nearly 200 rapid HIV or syphilis tests.
The Project's efforts, bolstered by the GSK IMPACT Award, continue to fill crucial service gaps, reinforcing the essential role charities play in ensuring high standards of care for LGBTQIA+ communities throughout Northern Ireland. Looking ahead, The Rainbow Project aims to expand its reach and continue advocating for the rights and health of LGBTQIA+ individuals amid ongoing social and political challenges.