For participants, it meant friendship, belonging, and hope. The aim of the project was improve the mental health of LGBTQ+ people in North Wales by building strong wellbeing and a secure sense of identity. The project promoted LGBTQ+ visibility, challenged stereotypes, and created more inclusive, supportive environments. Our goal was to reduce isolation and enhance wellbeing through safe, welcoming groups in Denbigh, Rhyl, Wrexham, and Mold.
Project funded by
From March 2024 to February 2025, Young and Mindful CIC ran Me + My Identity, a year-long project funded by the Postcode Community Fund.
We set up five groups and supported an existing one at Northop Campus. Each week, participants came together for two hours of mindfulness, reflection, discussion, and activities designed to build confidence, connection, and pride.
Impact That Matters
The results have been life-changing:
“We feel accepted by each other and not judged.”
For retired, unemployed, or self-employed participants, the groups provided belonging and purpose.
It’s easier to share openly about relationship breakups, dropping out of university, losing a home, or struggling to find work.
Beyond the sessions, participants created a WhatsApp group to let each other know of other events, attended Cardiff, Chester and Wrexham Pride, and enjoyed other LGBTQ+ events, strengthening community ties across North Wales. We also went to see one our members perform in Dick Whttington.
Me + My Identity in Action
Me + My Identity has been a successful project. We launched five groups, of which three are continuing. We were approached by Coleg Cambria to support their LGBTQ+ young people, and by NEWCIS parent carers, to support parents who want to understand more about what their LGBTQ+ teenagers are going through.
Participants told us they had made new friends to socialise with outside, easing loneliness and isolation. Many reported improved wellbeing through mindfulness, open conversations, and greater comfort in being themselves. Others felt their confidence, communication, and willingness to try new activities had grown.
Our impact was recognised by other organisations too. Denbighshire Youth Service invited us to create their first ever LGBTQ+ and Allies group at Ruthin Youth Centre, opening the door to a more inclusive youth service.
Growing Beyond the Project
Of the five groups we launched, three are now continuing in Wrexham, Rhyl, and Ruthin with support from The National Lottery Community Fund.
Our work has also inspired wider change:
One participant from the project has now become a volunteer, giving back to the community and supporting new members, showing the lasting personal impact and sense of belonging this project nurtured.
A Lasting Legacy
Me + My Identity has shown the power of community. What started as five pilot groups has grown into an ongoing network of support, creativity, and pride.
For participants, it meant friendship, belonging, and hope. For North Wales, it’s creating a more inclusive future.
Each week, Jez and Shilpa would have an activity, discussion, or fun night planned for us, so the session felt structured, interesting, fun, and a way of bringing the group together. If someone didn’t want to join in, then Pat or Chloe would sit with us, and we would talk or play pool
