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Ilkley Pride launches parent support group

Tuesday, 19 May 2026 08:40

On Sunday 31 May Ilkley Pride and Diversity Group will begin running a regular parent support group, Apples & Acorns.

Hosted by Isabel Ashman, an experienced parent of a gender & sexuality querying child, the meetings are intended to be a low key, low pressure drop in, for any parents, carers or guardians of children on an LGBTQ+ journey.

Isabel will be happy to share her knowledge and experience, and facilitate a supportive, discrete space where parents can share any concerns, thoughts and feelings in a non-judgemental and reassuring environment.

As a public speaker Isabel has shared her parenting experiences at several events; for Ilkley Pride, on behalf of Mermaids for the Halifax Banking Group and to a number of local groups; including the WI and Mother’s Union.

There is no need to book, just drop in to Vitello Lounge from 15.00 on Sunday 31st May.

If you’d like to touch base beforehand or at any other time, or to arrange a one-to-one chat with Isabel, you can email her on isabel@ilkleypride.co.uk. All communication will be treated with the utmost discretion and in accordance with GDPR.

Isabel [above] said:

“Although I’ve loved being production manager for the Ilkley Prides, as a founding member of Ilkley Pride and Diversity Group my main objective has always been to advocate, support and educate; be that young people, their families or the wider community of Ilkley.

“When my son came out 7 years ago, despite all my experience working with the LGBTQ+ community in London in my 20’s and 30’s, I had so many questions and fears, and I was desperate for support. If I can now help families to navigate their paths then I will be fulfilling that original objective.”

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