Enjoy a safe Pride

As one of the largest and most popular Pride events in the country, we're expecting a busy weekend in the city.

If you're heading to organised events or out and about, please stay safe, be aware of possible health risks and use health services wisely.

Councillor Tristram Burden, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health, said: “I hope everyone attending Pride this weekend has a great time, but please take care of yourself. Most health risks can be easily prevented.

“Keep an eye out for others too – particularly those who may be distressed or who have had too much to drink. Offer them some water, help them find a steward or support and please stay with them until you have.

“Tell medical staff if any drugs or alcohol have been taken – you won’t get into trouble, but it will help them to know.

“There’s plenty of health and wellbeing support in the city, but please choose the right service for your needs so the NHS can care for those that need it.

“Please only dial 999 or use A&E if it’s a serious or life-threatening emergency. Medical support is available at Preston Park and the Pride Village Party, or you can get help from pharmacies, Safe Space or Brighton Station Medical Centre.”

Look after each other

Decide on a meeting point in a quieter area in case you get separated and let someone know if you’re going to leave the group or head home.

If you see someone who looks like they are struggling, ask if they’re ok and direct them to support if they need it. Stewards and security staff will be around Pride venues to help you.

Keep cool and stay hydrated

Avoid dehydration, overheating and a bad hangover by drinking plenty of water.

You can take an empty refillable water bottle into Pride events and there are water points in the park and in the city centre, or ask for water from bars.

The forecast is currently mixed, so be prepared for all weather.

Bring warm and waterproof clothing, and if the sun does come out, use suncream and look-out for sunburn or heat exhaustion in yourself and friends.

Pace yourself and know your limits

Have a good time but know when to stop drinking or call it a night.

To reduce your risk of overdose, avoid mixing drugs with other drugs, alcohol or prescription medication.

Remember that it’s never safe to go into the sea when you’ve been drinking alcohol or taken drugs. 

Protect yourself from STIs

Cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are increasing.

The best way to look after your sexual health and avoid getting an STI is to use protection and get tested regularly, even if you are not showing any symptoms.

Free condoms are available at the park or in LGBTQ+ venues in the city.

Don’t feel pressured into doing something you don’t want to

Alcohol and drugs can impair your judgement – don’t feel pressured into drinking, taking drugs, having sex or going somewhere you don’t feel comfortable. If you’re not interested in doing something your friends are doing, remember that you don’t have to.

Stay safe at the beach

Please take care by the sea. 

If you're thinking of swimming:

  • Only swim between the flags on lifeguarded beaches.
  • Children should be supervised at all times.
  • Don't go in to the water after drinking alcohol.

If you see someone in distress, call 999 and ask for the coastguard.

If you need first aid, medical help or support

St John Ambulance

First aid teams and medical centres are available in Preston Park and the Pride Village Party. Most problems can be dealt with on site. A steward will be able to direct you or assist you in getting to them.

Safe Space

A quiet space with support for anyone who is feeling distressed, intoxicated, injured, has lost friends, needs to charge a phone or is unable to get home. Open Friday and Saturday 10.30pm to 5am, St Paul’s Church, West Street BN1 2RQ.

You can also:

  • Visit a pharmacy for advice and over the counter medicines for minor health concerns such as sunburn, stomach pain, a headache or hay fever.
  • Call NHS 111 or visit www.111.nhs.uk for 24/7 medical advice or information about which local services to use.
  • Walk-in at Brighton Station Health Centre for urgent treatment. Open 8am to 8pm every day and you don’t need to be a registered patient.
  • Call the Samaritans on 116 123 if you are experiencing distress or want to talk to someone.

After the festival

Free HIV or STI test kits are easily available:

If you need sexual health & HIV support or advice:

If you need drugs or alcohol support, visit our help with alcohol or drug misuse information.

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