Pride Action North, the leading LGBTQIA+ charity in the North East, is preparing for a leadership evolution as part of its ongoing commitment to empower LGBTQIA+ communities to thrive. Darren Irvine-Duffy, a founding member and Chair of the Board of Trustees since 2020, will step down in Spring 2025, marking the culmination of a remarkable tenure that has transformed the organisation.
As a founding member of Pride Action North, Darren has been instrumental in shaping the charity’s identity, mission, and impact. His leadership since 2020 has guided the organisation through significant milestones, including the transition from Northumberland Pride to Pride Action North, a rebranding that expanded the charity’s scope to better serve LGBTQIA+ people across the North.
Reflecting on his time as Chair, Darren said:
“Being part of Pride Action North from its very beginning and serving as Chair since 2020 has been one of the most fulfilling opportunities of my life. I am incredibly proud of how far we’ve come, particularly in becoming the leading LGBTQIA+ charity in the region. I know Stephen, Drew, and the rest of the board will continue this incredible work, ensuring that every LGBTQIA+ person in across the North has the opportunity to thrive.”
From 1 May 2025, Stephen Corpe will take on the role of Chair of the Board of Trustees. Stephen brings a wealth of expertise in governance and strategic leadership and will be joined by Drew Dalton, who assumed the position of Deputy Chair on 5 December 2024. Drew, a prominent advocate and global leader within LGBTQIA+ spaces, will bring strong insight and energy to the charity’s strategic goals.
Together, Stephen and Drew will lead the board in continuing to deliver Pride Action North’s ambitious Three-Year Strategy: 2024–2027, which ensures LGBTQIA+ people across the North are supported to thrive in inclusive, supportive, and empowering environments.
Pride Action North’s Three-Year Strategy: 2024–2027 outlines a roadmap for continued growth, innovation, and advocacy. The strategy emphasises:
- Expanding support for marginalised LGBTQIA+ groups.
- Educating the public and raising awareness about the challenges LGBTQIA+ people face.
- Strengthening partnerships to deliver innovative, collaborative solutions.
- Providing inclusive spaces that foster connection, celebration, and empowerment.
As the organisation’s leadership evolves, Pride Action North remains steadfast in its mission to support LGBTQIA+ people to thrive, reinforcing its role as a driving force for inclusion and equity across the North.
For more information about Pride Action North’s mission, programmes, and ways to get involved, visit www.prideactionnorth.org.uk.