We are the Open Table Network (OTN) – a growing partnership of communities across England & Wales which genuinely welcome and affirm people who are:

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, & Asexual (LGBTQIA) + our families, friends & anyone who wants to belong in an accepting, loving community.

We reach out in welcome to LGBTQIA+ people who need us and who are looking for us. We know that organised religion so often turns away from us. Faith groups can often be cold or hostile towards us, and this can leave us truly isolated; just at the very times when we need affirmation of love, worth and belonging.

People talk about the ‘LGBT community’ as if it was a big linked-up bunch of people who are all in touch with one another. But LGBTQIA+ people are no more part of one big, comforting community than a ‘straight community’ would be! LGBTQIA+ people are far more likely to suffer poor mental health as a result of not having a community. This is why OTN exists.

We currently support 37 communities across England & Wales. But there are many more asking to join us. You can search the map, read more about our communities, or contact us to find out how you might host an Open Table community.

We’re helping to create safer spaces where LGBTQIA+ people can find peace, acceptance and welcome. People who belong to an Open Table community say it improves their mental health, and gives them confidence and hope.