Hounslow Council LGBTQ+ History Month Event with WLQP on 11 Feb

Key Points

• Hounslow Council is hosting a free event on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, at Hounslow House to mark LGBTQ+ History Month.​
• The event partners with local charity West London Queer Project (WLQP) and focuses on the theme of science and innovation.
• Guest speakers include EJ-Francis Caris-Hammer from the University of Essex, discussing the impact of Covid on LGBTQ+ communities, and representatives from Sexual Health Hounslow on innovations in HIV care and LGBTQ+ pioneering support for those living with HIV.​
• A musical performance features the ArtsEd Choir or performing arts school ArtsEd.​
• Councillor Ajmer Grewal, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Support, Communities and Equalities, emphasises celebration of past voices, future thriving, and commitment to equality.​
• Representatives from NHS, WLQP, and Council Community Safety Teams will provide advice on services.​
• The event runs from 10:00 to 14:00 or 10:30am to 2pm, includes panel discussions, keynote speakers, community stalls, networking, and a light lunch.
• Registration available via WLQP website or Eventbrite listed under London Borough of Hounslow & Partners.​
• Ties into Hounslow Council’s “Fairer More Equal” strategy launched two years ago to tackle inequalities through community partnerships.​
• National theme for LGBTQ+ History Month 2026 is “Science & Innovation”, highlighting LGBTQ+ contributions, past harms from science misapplication, and diverse teams for solutions.

Hounslow (hounslow) January 16, 2026 – Hounslow Council has announced a free special event at Hounslow House on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, in partnership with West London Queer Project to celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month under the theme of science and innovation.​

What is the event about?

The event aims to celebrate Hounslow’s LGBTQ+ community, reflecting on past contributions while focusing on future progress through science and innovation. As detailed in the official council press release on hounslow.gov.uk, residents across the borough are encouraged to attend this free gathering, which includes guest speakers, performances, and advisory stalls. According to the West London Queer Project (WLQP) website, it features an interactive session of keynote speakers, panel discussions, and a special performance by the ArtsEd Choir.

This initiative aligns with broader efforts by the council to foster equality, building on partnerships with local groups. The Chiswick Calendar reports that community stalls and a light lunch will also be provided, enhancing networking opportunities. Eventbrite listings by London Borough of Hounslow & Partners confirm the venue at the 6th Floor, Hounslow House, 7 Bath Road, Hounslow TW3 3EB, with doors opening at 10:20am.

When and where is the Hounslow LGBTQ+ event taking place?

The event is scheduled for Wednesday, 11 February 2026, from 10:00 to 14:00, as per WLQP’s event page. Hounslow Council’s announcement specifies the location as Hounslow House, with Eventbrite noting the 6th floor and a duration of 3 hours 30 minutes starting from 10:30am. Some sources like Chiswick Calendar mention 10am to 2pm, consistent across promotions.

Residents can register directly through the WLQP website or Eventbrite to secure their spot, as the event is open to all ages and in-person only. Hounslow Matters bulletin from govdelivery.com reiterates the date and venue, linking it to cabinet discussions.

Who are the guest speakers at the event?

Guest speakers include EJ-Francis Caris-Hammer from the University of Essex, who will highlight the impact Covid had on LGBTQ+ communities. Representatives from Sexual Health Hounslow, part of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, will address innovations in HIV care and how the LGBTQ+ community have pioneered support for people living with HIV.​

The WLQP page describes keynote speakers and panel discussions without naming additional individuals beyond the performance element. Eventbrite mentions an opening welcome by Councillor Ajmer Grewal, Lead Member for Residents Support, Communities and Equalities.​

What entertainment and activities can attendees expect?

A musical performance from performing arts school ArtsEd is confirmed by Hounslow Council. WLQP elaborates this as a special performance by the ArtsEd Choir. Activities extend to networking with stallholders from NHS Mental Health Support, Community Safety, West London Queer Project, and Galop, as listed on Eventbrite.

Panel discussions, community stalls, and advice sessions on council services from NHS, WLQP, and safety teams are highlighted. A light lunch is provided, per Chiswick Calendar and WLQP.

What did Councillor Ajmer Grewal say about the event?

As reported by Hounslow Council’s official news article, Councillor Ajmer Grewal, Cabinet Member for Residents’ Support, Communities and Equalities at Hounslow Council, said:

“LGBTQ+ History Month is not only a celebration of the countless voices who helped shape the LGBTQ+ community but it also focuses on the future and how we can ensure the LGBTQ+ community can thrive in Hounslow.”​

Councillor Grewal continued: “We are proud to work closely with our LGBTQ+ residents to make Hounslow a fairer, more equal place for all, and this event stands as both a celebration of that progress and a renewed commitment to the LGBTQ+ community.” Eventbrite notes her role in the opening welcome.

How does this event connect to Hounslow Council’s equality strategy?

Two years ago, Hounslow Council launched the “Fairer More Equal” strategy to tackle systemic inequalities in the borough, forging close partnerships with community groups. This event exemplifies that commitment, with representatives offering advice on council services.​

The strategy document, available on hounslow.gov.uk, underpins ongoing efforts to support LGBTQ+ residents. WLQP’s involvement reflects these partnerships, as the charity provides resources and safe spaces.

What is the national theme for LGBTQ+ History Month 2026?

This year’s theme, “Science & Innovation”, highlights how data, evidence, and research drive progress and reform practices. As per the official LGBT+ History Month site, it celebrates LGBTQ+ scientists and innovators, addresses historical harms like pathologisation of identities, and stresses diverse teams for global challenges such as climate change and healthcare.

Stonewall resources note the theme’s focus on past reflection and future impact through credible data. The launch occurred on Friday, 7th November 2025, at Burlington House by the Royal Society of Chemistry.​

Who is West London Queer Project and what is their role?

West London Queer Project (WLQP) is a local charity partnering with Hounslow Council for the event. Their website promotes it as an interactive session to mark the month, with registration links. WLQP aims to bring together people and businesses for resources and safe spaces addressing societal issues for LGBTQ+ communities.

Hounslow Connect describes WLQP’s mission to improve lives through events and support. They host numerous activities, including workouts, walks, and football sessions in partnership with Brentford FC.

How can residents register and attend?

Residents can sign up via the link on Hounslow Council’s page or directly on wlqp.org. Eventbrite offers tickets under London Borough of Hounslow & Partners, specifying in-person attendance. Chiswick Calendar directs to wlqp.org for registration.

The event is free, all-ages, and encourages broad participation from third sector groups, residents, and staff.​

Why is this event significant for Hounslow’s community?

This gathering underscores Hounslow’s dedication to equality, amid national observances of LGBTQ+ History Month from 20 January to 20 February. By focusing on science and innovation, it spotlights LGBTQ+ pioneers in health and research, fostering inclusion.

Similar events, like RAMM Museum’s drop-ins with PRISM Exeter, show wider momentum. In Hounslow, it builds on strategies to make the borough fairer, with WLQP’s extensive programming amplifying community voices.