StoneCrabs has been awarded a grant of £76,760 from the Heritage Fund for its new project, Pride In Self, Pride In Place.

The project aims to explore the role of the NHS in LGBTQ+ culture on the Isle of Wight during the 1980s and 1990s, a time when the LGBTQ+ community was fighting for recognition and support in the face of Section 28 and the AIDS pandemic.

The project is all about creating a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQ+ individuals to share their life experiences through oral history recordings.

StoneCrabs artistic director Franko Figueiredo said: "We're thrilled to have received this grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and we're grateful for the opportunity to continue exploring and celebrating LGBTQ+ history.

"We hope this project will raise awareness and promote inclusivity, inspiring other organisations to explore and share LGBTQ+ history in their own communities."

How to get involved in the project

LGBTQ+ people and allies who are passionate about the cause can help with various tasks such as conducting research, organising events, and assisting with interviews.

You can find out more at www.stonecrabs.co.uk and www.outonanisland.co.uk or find them on social media.

Pride In Self, Pride In Place project manager Caroline Diamond said she was looking forward to working closely with Solent NHS, which she described as "one of the Island’s biggest and most inclusive employers".

Channel 4 documentary It’s A Sin highlighted the 1980s and 1990s as a turbulent time for LGBTQ+ people struggling with Section 28 and the AIDS pandemic.

Pride In Self, Pride In Place aims to research the period in more detail, producing an exhibition of its findings which will be displayed at Carisbrooke Castle Museum.

The Classic Boat Museum is also collaborating with the project. Museum trustee Dr Victoria Preston said: "We look forward to hosting events at the museum and wish StoneCrabs every success with this project and well-deserved grant award.

"StoneCrabs is a pioneer on the Island not only for raising awareness about LGBT issues but also for making everyone feel included.”