The Welcome List

Belper is a town known for its community spirit and commitment to inclusion. In response to the UK Supreme Court ruling on the legal definition of a woman – a decision that’s caused deep hurt and fear for many Trans and non-binary people – Pride in Belper is taking action.

We’ve created a Welcome List.

It’s a list of shops, cafés, pubs, salons and other businesses and organisations in and around Belper, where Trans and non-binary people are actively welcomed, respected and valued. And if there’s a customer loo, it’s a loo for everyone.  

Why Now?

The ruling reaffirms a binary legal definition of sex, and while legal in nature, it has real-world impact—being used to restrict rights and deny recognition. In times like these, silence can feel like complicity, so we choose to be vocal. We choose visible allyship.

There is Room for us all

This initiative doesn’t diminish the value or experiences of cis women – in fact, it includes and honours them. Cis women have long been at the heart of community organising, resistance, and care. Many know what it feels like to have their identity questioned or their safety threatened. By affirming the rights and dignity of Trans and non-binary people, we are not taking anything away from cis women – we are building a broader, kinder, and more just world that includes everyone. There is room for us all in our community, because true feminism and true solidarity leave no one behind.

What the Welcome List Means

This isn’t box-ticking or a performative gesture – it’s a practical way to show where people can simply be themselves.

Eventually (once we’ve raised some funds!) each participating business will display a window sticker to show that all are welcome -regardless of sex, gender identity, sexuality, race, ethnicity or disability.

It’s a sign of belonging. A sign that no one is alone.

The Power of Community and Allyship

This list isn’t just about Trans and non-binary people – it’s about all of us. It’s about the kind of community we want to be.

Allyship means acting before harm happens. It means building a kinder, more compassionate world together.

When we all play our part – businesses, organisations, neighbours – we create something stronger, braver and more joyful.

Why Belper?

Because this is who we are.

Pride in Belper has always been more than a protest and a community celebration—it’s a declaration of belonging. Last year, over 11,000 people stood together in solidarity. The Welcome List is a natural next step. It says:

In Belper, we choose welcome. We choose community. We choose courage.

Pride is a Verb

Pride isn’t just a flag – it’s action. It’s responding with love, compassion and courage, especially when others are being pushed to the margins.

To our Trans and non-binary siblings: You are not alone. You are not a problem. You belong here.

Together, we’re making Belper a place where everyone belongs.

Get Involved

If you run a business and want to be part of the Welcome List, get in touch. All we ask is a commitment to creating a respectful and inclusive space for everyone. We’ll support you with signage and solidarity.

And if you’re a customer? Support the businesses that show up. Spread the word. Be part of the change.