With research showing many LGBTQ+ people still reluctant to show affection in public, organisers of the first North West LGBTQ+ Business Awards want to recognise venues that go ‘above and beyond’. Tony McDonough reports

Pubs, cafes bars and restaurants owned by people from the LGBTQ+ community, and allies, are being urged to enter the first ever North West LGBTQ+ Business Awards.

Wirral-based Drew Cockton, founder of multi award-winning luxury fragrance brand Owen Drew, is organising the awards which are taking place this September. They will bring together businesses and people from across the North West of England.

Hospitality has been particularly hard hit by the multiple lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic which has forced them to close each time. Even when they have been allowed to open, social distancing measures have limited customer numbers.

Drew said: “The past 12 months have been extremely difficult for the hospitality industry for obvious reasons. The LGBTQ+ Business Awards will shine a light on the achievements of businesses and people in the community and we are looking forward to receiving nominations for the region’s favourite bars, pubs, restaurants and hotels.”

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The awards will will also celebrate the contributions of LGBTQ+ allied businesses which go above and beyond to make their services and workplaces as accessible as possible to members of the community and to demonstrate an open and tolerant attitude.

A recent study showed that almost 70% of LGBTQ+ people said they would feel uncomfortable holding hands in public. This, explained drew, was why the awards was need now more than ever.

He added: “Thankfully there are many so welcoming hospitality venues across the North West which support LGBTQ+ charities and causes and train their staff in diversity and inclusion. We want to show our appreciation.”

Prizes will be given at a black tie dinner taking place at Heatherfield House in Wirral on Thursday, September 16, with several VIPs in attendance including Jürgen Maier, former CEO of Siemens in the UK and Dame Angela Eagle.

The awards will also be supporting LGBTQ+ charities including the LCR Pride Foundation and the Albert Kennedy Trust. A spokesperson for the AKT said “We are very excited to be a part of this project that uplifts LGBTQ+ identities and the important work of the community.”

Businesses can apply for free by visiting www.lgbtqbusinessawards.com or by emailing hello@lgbtqbusinessawards.com. Entries close on May 31, 2021. Follow the progress of the awards:

Twitter: LGBTQ_business

Instagram: LGBTQ_businessawards

Facebook: LGBTQ Business Awards