To our readers: thank you for being part of Scene

It’s that time of year again when people say, ‘I can’t believe it’s almost Christmas!’ 2025 has been a year of highs and lows for our communities, for LGBTQ+ progress, and for the idea of equality as a whole. 

Although the fight for true equality and inclusion will never end, this year has felt like an overwhelming uphill struggle. 

In times like these, community becomes even more important and powerful, and we have seen plenty of that across the UK. 

Our communities have faced many challenges over the past decades, and we always emerged stronger than we were before. 

At this very moment, LGBTQ+ people across the country are advocating for change and progress inside and outside institutions, businesses and government, and around the dinner table. They are debating difficult questions and keeping it all going. 

The work never stops within our communities either. We are fortunate to have some of the best charities providing vital services. Our movement is a beacon of light in difficult times. 

Scene is committed to reporting wherever community comes together, and whenever we celebrate wins or grieve collectively. We are here to give your voice a platform. This mission won’t change in 2026. 

We are grateful to each and every one of you for the feedback you provide to help improve Scene, and for the platform you have helped to create.

Thank you for coming back time and again for your daily news fix, and for being such loyal readers.

The Scene editorial team and the wider Pride Community Foundation team wish you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year, if you are celebrating. 

All the best

Leslie Clarke
CEO, Pride Community Foundation

If this season is hard for you

The festive period is not joyful for everyone. For many LGBTQ+ people, it can bring feelings of isolation, grief, anxiety or disconnection, particularly where family relationships are strained or support networks feel thin.

If you are struggling, you are not alone, and support is available.

• Switchboard LGBT+ Helpline offers confidential listening, information and signposting for LGBTQ+ people across the UK.
• Samaritans are available 24 hours a day for anyone who needs someone to talk to, whatever they are going through.
• Shout provides free, confidential text support if speaking on the phone feels difficult.
• The LGBT Foundation offers a range of wellbeing services, advice and peer support.
• If you are in immediate danger or feel unable to keep yourself safe, NHS 111 can help you access urgent mental health support, or call 999 in an emergency.

Reaching out can feel hard, but it can also be a first step towards feeling less isolated. Scene exists because community matters, especially at times like this.

You’re not alone.