New LGBT charity shop set for Fleetwood

The LGBT Charity UK shop, on Lord Street, is believed to be the first shop in the town targeted specifically at people who are lesbian, gay or transgender.

The Blackpool-based charity was founded by Luke and John Conway, who opened two shops in the resort earlier this year, on Talbot Road and Waterloo Road, before deciding to launch a third one in the Wyre area.

A sign went up on Monday at the Lord Street premises, based at the former Easterleigh charity shop, and it will open on Saturday September 5.

Luke and John have bankrolled the new charity with £8,000 of their savings, with the aim of supporting those in need or signposting them to other charities who can help them.

Charity founder Luke, 38, who lives in Blackpool, said: “Before we decided to open, we had a word with some of the other charity shops in Fleetwood to see if we’d fit in.

“The idea is to offer the help we do in Blackpool for those who live at this part of the coast.

“We have some Fleetwood people who will staff the shop, including a shop manager, and we’re looking forward to our officially opening in September.

“This could never have happened 20 years ago but I think most people’s attitudes have gradually changed ad they have become more tolerant.

“Some people have said that a new charity shop is the last thing that Fleetwood needs, but I think it is better to have an occupied shop than empty one, which will just get more and more run down.”

From mental health to homelessness, from sexual health support to help for those suffering from domestic abuse, the charity itself provides a range of resources.

Luke says they have already managed to re-house four people who came into the Blackpool shops in need of help.

The charity expects to receive the keys to the building this Friday and the shop itself with sell clothes and various other items

Luke says the shop will open with considerable fanfare in September, with a drag queen booked for the official launch, as was the case in Blackpool.

Fleetwood does not have a gay scene, unlike Blackpool, but Luke says that doesn’t mean residents and people in the local area do not need support .

The pair were both inspired by some of the difficulties they faced when they came out as gay.

Luke added: “The service we offer may cater for LGBT people but everyone will be welcome and if we can give advice and help we will do.

“Part of the idea for the charity and the shops is to break down barriers.”