A Movement Rooted in Community and Inclusion
In the heart of Wales, where valleys meet resilience and identity meets celebration, there is a quiet but powerful movement transforming lives: Club F.O.D Cymru. Known for its unwavering focus on inclusion, visibility, and wellbeing, this volunteer-led initiative is more than just a support network — it’s the organisation behind Torfaen Pride itself.
As the founding group and driving force behind Torfaen Pride, Club F.O.D Cymru exists to ensure no one in the LGBT+ community is left behind, especially in communities where isolation, stigma, or lack of access might otherwise silence someone’s truth.
Club F.O.D: A Quick History
Originally formed in England as Club F.O.D (an abbreviation of “Friends of Dorothy” — a historic euphemism used in the LGBT+ community), the organisation began by hosting inclusive, sober-friendly social nights. These gatherings soon evolved into something far greater: a movement tackling social isolation head-on.
As the need grew for similar support across Wales, Club F.O.D Cymru was launched — bringing the organisation’s values of care, community, and inclusion to towns and valleys across the country.
And in 2023, it became the organisation behind the founding of Torfaen Pride — one of Wales’s newest Pride events, grounded not just in visibility, but in year-round community outreach.
What Does Club F.O.D Cymru Do?
At its core, Club F.O.D Cymru exists to offer unapologetically inclusive spaces where LGBT+ people can connect, find support, and be their authentic selves. But their work goes far beyond events.
Here are just some of the ways they support the Welsh LGBT+ community:
- Organising Torfaen Pride: An annual celebration of inclusion, identity, and belonging — shaped by the community, for the community.
- Social Events & Talking Circles: From local meetups to Promoting supportive group sessions organised by other organisations, they create welcoming environments that are alcohol-optional and always judgment-free.
- Mental Health Support & Signposting: Offering compassionate, informal support to those who may be struggling or feeling alone.
- Volunteering Opportunities: Giving people a meaningful way to contribute to community life, often while gaining confidence and connection in return.
- Training & Education: Partnering with local groups, schools, and businesses to improve LGBT+ awareness and inclusion.
What makes Club F.O.D Cymru different is that all of this is delivered by volunteers — people who believe that community care is radical, necessary, and powerful.
Why Their Work Matters in Wales
While major cities often host large-scale Pride events and have visible LGBT+ hubs, many areas of Wales still lack safe, affirming spaces — especially for those in rural communities, older LGBT+ people, and individuals who are neurodivergent, disabled, or otherwise marginalised.
Club F.O.D Cymru recognises that inclusion isn’t just about a flag once a year. It’s about showing up consistently, building relationships, and creating sustainable support networks.
Torfaen Pride, as one example, isn’t just a day of celebration — it’s the public face of an organisation that’s active throughout the year. From partnering with local councils to running wellbeing events and engaging in advocacy, Club F.O.D Cymru is building Pride from the ground up.
Torfaen Pride: The Flagship of F.O.D’s Welsh Work
Founded and organised by Club F.O.D Cymru, Torfaen Pride is a testament to what grassroots activism can achieve. It’s not just about colourful parades — although there’s plenty of joy involved. It’s about creating a space that’s genuinely inclusive, intergenerational, and accessible.
Torfaen Pride is:
- Volunteer-led and community-driven.
- Inclusive of families, disabled people, and sober attendees.
- A reflection of local needs, not just national narratives.
- Backed by care, with visible safeguarding and wellbeing at its heart.
Everything that happens at Torfaen Pride is guided by Club F.O.D Cymru’s mission: to reduce social isolation, increase visibility, and ensure no one is left behind.
Beyond the Rainbow: Creating Sustainable Safe Spaces
What sets Club F.O.D Cymru apart is the fact that it doesn’t stop at Pride. Their work continues 365 days a year, often quietly, behind the scenes:
- A conversation that lifts someone out of loneliness.
- A volunteer helping a young trans person feel seen.
- A partnership with a local venue to improve access for disabled LGBT+ guests.
They are not waiting for permission to make a difference — they are doing it, every day, with compassion and creativity.
Why This Matters Right Now
Across the UK, LGBT+ rights are being questioned in public discourse. Transphobia is rising. Queer spaces are closing. It’s easy to feel discouraged.
That’s why organisations like Club F.O.D Cymru are essential. They remind us that change doesn’t always come from the top down. Sometimes, it comes from people with big hearts, modest resources, and unshakable belief in the power of community.
Their message is simple: everyone deserves to belong. Whether you’re young or old, out or questioning, rural or urban — you have a place here.
Final Thoughts
Club F.O.D Cymru is not just the organiser of Torfaen Pride — it’s a beacon of hope in Wales. Through its events, outreach, and advocacy, it’s building a Wales where LGBT+ people are seen, supported, and celebrated every day.
So, the next time someone asks “What is Club F.O.D?”, you can answer with pride:
It’s family.
It’s safety.
It’s visibility.
It’s Pride — made real.
Want to support real, community-led change in Wales? Get involved with Club F.O.D Cymru, volunteer at Torfaen Pride, or spread the word about the incredible work happening in our valleys.
You never know who needs to hear that they belong. 💜
