Rugby man wins award for outstanding contribution to the LGBT+ community

A Rugby man has been recognised for his dedication and commitment to the LGBTQ+ community.

Simon Dowling, founder and lead facilitator of ‘Out-Out’, said he was ‘humbled’ to receive the Individual Community Action Award from Warwickshire Community and Voluntary Action (CAVA).

This esteemed accolade recognises Simon's outstanding contributions to the local LGBT+ community and his tireless efforts in creating a safe and inclusive space for its members.

In December 2020, with only six individuals in attendance, Simon launched the Out-Out community group. Today, Out-Out has blossomed into a thriving community of over 60 members hailing from across Rugby and its surroundings areas.

Simon's vision for the group was born from recognising the absence of a secure and welcoming space for LGBT+ individuals – and its allies - to connect and socialize with like-minded peers in the town.

He said: "It's been amongst the greatest privileges of my life to have founded Out-Out for the LGBT+ community within Rugby, and this award is really for and about its members.

"Without brave, diverse, and proud individuals showing up week on week, there really would be no Out-Out.”

The group members, living by the motto ‘be yourself there’ support one another wholeheartedly at weekly social gatherings, organised special events, and within its thriving online community.

Simon added: "To me, this award represents only the beginning of my passion to help ensure LGBT+ individuals reach their fullest potential in a town in which we can thrive as an accepted community. I am beyond grateful to CAVA for recognising my efforts so far."

For more information, to get involved, offer services to or to become a part of this inspiring group, please reach out via email at [email protected].