Meet Adam, one of our paramedics and co-chair of our LGBTQ+ staff network. Here’s more on what Pride means to him:

“Once upon a time, when I was a fresh-faced and newly-out emergency medical dispatcher just starting my ambulance career, I can honestly say that Pride Month meant very little to me. In my slightly naive head, I didn’t think being gay affected my day-to-day life or my job.

“Fast forward 17 years and I couldn’t have been more wrong. It couldn’t be more important, for myself, my colleagues, our service and our patients.

“As someone who has been both verbally and physically assaulted simply for being who I am, I encourage everyone, whether LGBTQ+ or an ally, to celebrate Pride month. To celebrate all of our achievements whilst also recognising that there is still much work to be done.

“I believe with the rise of divisive politics, it’s now more important than ever to stand up tall and be our true selves. Only by doing this can we show that we are truly representative of the communities we serve.

“This was highlighted to me by a letter from a member of the public, who told us that on seeing our participation in Manchester Pride last year, his little brother was filled with joy and confidence when he realised his sexuality wasn’t a barrier to his dream career. Proving my opinion that participating in Pride parades isn’t about having a party, but a chance to show the LGBT+ community that we are them and they are us.

“Whatever you do to celebrate Pride Month this year, please keep being your true selves and don’t let anyone stop you.”