Rainbow Fund
Our City, Our Story
Read our journey, write our future.
What is the Rainbow Fund?
A dedicated fund for projects and organisations that centre equity, inclusion, visibility, safety, and wellbeing for LGBTQ+ people in Milton Keynes. It prioritises groups led by and for LGBTQ+ communities, especially those supporting people who face multiple forms of discrimination or marginalisation.
What does the next generation need to write their chapter in LGBTQ+ history in Milton Keynes?
The Next Chapter
Milton Keynes has long been the backdrop to powerful moments in LGBTQ+ history.
In the 70s, it welcomed the Campaign for Homosexual Equality.
The 80s saw the launch of the Lesbian and Gay Switchboard.
In the 90s, Youthline offered vital space for LGBTQ+ young people to connect.
And in the 2000s, the Freedom Centre and Q:Space gave our communities space of their own.
Each decade has carved a new chapter in the story of pride and progress here. Now, it’s time to ask: what does the next generation need to write theirs?
Double your Donation
We've committed to match every donation up to the first £25,000.
When you or your business support the Rainbow Fund, you're not just making a donation, you're investing in the future of the original community builders. The next generation of queer storytellers, support workers, artists and campaigners.
Have an informal chat with our philanthropy team who will talk to you about how your contribution will go twice as far and its impact will reach much further.
Why Now?
Our community already knows how to make change and pen its own stories. Let’s invest in making it happen.
People in the community continue to face real challenges,
from isolation to lack of safe spaces - particularly those at the
intersection of identity.
What could a bold inclusive, and safer tomorrow for MK’s
LGBTQ+ community look like in our city?
-
More book clubs, art projects, and mental health support.
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More youth clubs, a refugee hub, neurodiversity groups,
sexual health support. -
More voices heard. More joy, more safety, more space to
thrive.
New ideas and groups are waiting, and your support can make
them a reality.
What We've Made Possible So Far
MK is filled with inspiring queer leaders and voices. This fund builds on work we’re proud to have already supported, through our valued and close partnerships with Q:alliance and MK Pride Festival.
Q:alliance’s Queer Histories Project brought Milton Keynes’ LGBTQ+ history to life through school packs, guided walks, and exhibitions.
MK Pride Festival is a joyful celebration of identity. Our funding focused on accessibility and inclusion, enabling MK Pride to provide services such as BSL interpreters across its stages.
Brought to life a Trans Awareness Training for care home managers was formulated by Healthwatch MK, hosted through PJ Care, and led by Q:alliance and Alzheimer's Society.
Funding helped Q:alliance increase its capacity to support people facing isolation, discrimination, and post-COVID hardship.
Built to Last
These funds are built to last. That means if our national values are ever tested and the community needs us in a way we can’t predict, MK Community Foundation will still have the means to help. No matter what arises.
Join Us
Talk with us about writing the next chapter:
Philanthropy@mkcommunityfoundation.co.uk
Let’s start with an informal conversation.
Make an instant personal donation
Make an enquiry
Have any questions? Feel free to get in touch with our team.