The Greater Manchester
LGBTQ+ Equality Panel
Established in August 2018, the Greater Manchester (GM) LGBTQ+ Equality Panel represents LGBTQ+ people across the city region.
We do this by working with Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) to adapt their policies and practices to consider the needs of LGBTQ+ people, and ensure that all queer residents can live healthy, happy, fulfilling lives.
The LGBTQ+ Equality Panel brings together volunteers from across Greater Manchester, to contribute their lived experience, and represent LGBTQ+ community interests in the work of Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA).
In our monthly Panel meetings, members meet with teams across GMCA to discuss new policies and ongoing projects of work, with a focus on ensuring these are driven by accurate data and information about our communities.
Mayor Andy Burnham meets with Panel members annually to learn more about the issues facing LGBTQ+ communities across the city region, and hear about the work the Panel has conducted in the previous year.
The GM LGBTQ+ Equality Panel is one of seven panels established by GMCA to address inequality throughout Greater Manchester. The LGBTQ+ Equality Panel sits alongside:
You can find more information about the Equality Panels, and read quarterly updates about their progress here.
The LGBTQ+ Equality Panel has strong working relationships with it’s neighbouring panels, and the facilitators of each meet regularly to discuss common themes and share information.
As the facilitating organisation of the Panel, LGBT Foundation dedicates staff time and financial resources to ensuring the Panel can continue it’s vital work.
LGBTQ+ Equality Panel volunteers enjoy access to LGBT Foundation’s volunteer socials, paid travel expenses, and access to training and development relevant to their role.
The Panel onboards new volunteers annually, beginning with an information session where you can learn more about the Panel, the work it carries out, and if volunteering is a good fit for you.
Check LGBT Foundation’s events page for upcoming information sessions in 2026.
You can also follow the Panel’s progress on LinkedIn!
