Manchester Pride, a cornerstone event in the UK’s LGBTQ+ calendar for 40 years, has been placed into voluntary liquidation. The news comes amid growing financial difficulties and reports that performers and artists involved in the event are still awaiting thousands of pounds in unpaid fees.
The charity behind Manchester Pride cited multiple factors in its statement, including rising operational costs, a decline in ticket sales, and the failure to secure the rights to host Euro Pride, all of which contributed to a crippling financial shortfall. According to the most recent official filings released in September 2024, the organisation posted a deficit of nearly £500,000 for the year ending December 2023, despite generating revenue of £2.7 million. This loss was comparable to the heavy financial blow sustained during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The resulting negative funds left the charity with debts totalling £356,000.
The organisation’s Board of Trustees expressed regret over the delays in public communication, explaining that they were trying to avoid jeopardising potential financial recovery opportunities while negotiations and consultations were ongoing. Despite exhaustive efforts involving legal and financial advisors to find a way forward, the trustees ultimately concluded that continuing operations was not viable. The liquidation process has led to all staff being made redundant.
Adding to the crisis, performers and contractors who contributed to the 2025 Manchester Pride celebrations reported that payments due to them remain unpaid months after the event. Many claimed they received only automated replies to their inquiries. Equity, the union representing performers, has been actively involved, urging those affected to seek support. Karen Lockney, Equity’s North West representative, highlighted the gravity of the situation, sharing accounts from individuals struggling with basic living expenses due to delayed payments. The union also criticised the organisation’s extended 60-day payment terms as unnecessarily long, further complicating matters for artists relying on prompt remuneration.
Despite the setback, Manchester City Council has reaffirmed its commitment to the event’s future. Council leader Bev Craig acknowledged the importance of Manchester Pride to the city’s cultural fabric and LGBTQ+ community, recognising the disappointment of the current circumstances while promising support for a new chapter. The council intends to ensure that the Manchester Pride weekend, planned for next August, continues in some form to maintain its role as a vital celebration for the community.
The Charity Commission has opened a compliance case to scrutinise the charity and investigate the concerns raised about its financial management. Company House records indicate that several directors of Manchester Pride have been removed in recent days, reflecting attempts to stabilise the organisation’s precarious position.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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