“The next stop is… the reclaim
Higher ups have always said London is the safest place. But that simply isn’t true—not for everyone. We can’t stop violence against women and girls or hate against LGBT people, at least not in its entirety. But we can begin putting in preventative measures to get there.
The truth is, when it comes to prevention, TFL, the government etc. have let what could be an easy win completely fall between the silos. Starting with public transport.
For over 50 years, there has been completely no inside carriage CCTV on the Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines and limited coverage on the Central line. This means that when LGBT people—when anyone—actually has the confidence to report abuse they are faced with on public transport, it’s often not captured. This results in resources being stretched far beyond what’s needed in order to capture perpetrators, and often meaning they’re simply not caught at all.
Stations not covered are public knowledge; it was never a secret. This means that they have essentially, single-handedly, created a catalogue of blind spots that perpetrators can target.
Enough is enough.
We are having all the meetings with changemakers. online, in coffee shops, and in parliament. But we’re still only scratching the surface.
So, whilst we work tirelessly behind the scenes. it’s time to make something public. Time to shift the narrative, even if only for a night…
On the 28th of November, SpectrumCIC is reclaiming what public transport should look like for LGBT people. In an incredible collaboration with LDN Shuttle Service!, we will be taking over a double-decker bus to host a huge celebration of queer joy! (with a little chaos)
The journey starts at Charing Cross—right near Soho, one of London's biggest and most historic LGBT hotspots. As this bus travels through the heart of London and we party with PURPOSE, all passengers will take part in small acts of activism to cast a massive light on this problem and demand safer, fully monitored transit for everyone.
Of course, this vital celebration and campaign wouldn't be possible without the incredible backing of our sponsors, funders, and community donations.
Massive appreciation goes out to Westminster City Council, Her Own Recordings, Bass Buss, MicroRainbow, Besa, Wibble Shots and of course, YOU, the community keeping this movement alive.
A celebration like this, a reclamation of sorts, simply shouldn’t be paid for. So, grab your FREE ticket below. See you soon!
🚌 THE RECLAIM | 28 NOVEMBER
A moving act of queer joy, community and taking up space.
WHY WOULD WE EVER CHARGE OUR COMMUNITY TO RECLAIM SPACE?
On 28 November, Spectrum Community Projects CIC, in collaboration with LDN Shuttle Service, is taking over a double-decker bus and turning London's streets into a moving celebration of queer joy, community, visibility and collective action.
We talk about safe spaces all the time. But what about the spaces we have to move through every day? The journeys home, the carriages we sit in, and the moments when simply existing as yourself can feel unsafe?
LGBTQIA+ people deserve to travel without fear, harassment or discrimination. Public transport should be a space where everyone can feel safe, seen and supported. That conversation deserves more than a hashtag. It deserves action.
Starting at Charing Cross, right on the doorstep of Soho and London's rich queer history, THE RECLAIM brings together community, music, conversation and small acts of activism to shine a light on LGBTQIA+ safety on public transport.
We're not waiting for permission to take up space. We're taking the space, filling it with queer joy, and reminding London that our existence is not up for debate.
This is more than a bus ride. It's a reminder that we deserve to feel safe wherever we go, and that community is something we build together.
🎧 THE SOUNDTRACK OF THE NIGHT
We're reclaiming the streets, and we're bringing the sound with us.
The soundtrack of the night will be provided by DJ Carmen London, alongside another very special guest joining us to help keep the energy alive.
Expect music, movement, community and unapologetic queer joy. This is activism with a soundtrack, and trust us — you won't want to miss this one.
🎟️ FREE TICKETS. BECAUSE COMMUNITY ISN'T A LUXURY.
THE RECLAIM is free to attend. We believe our community should never have to pay for the privilege of coming together to reclaim space.
However, if you're in a position to support what we do, we'd be incredibly grateful for a donation. Every contribution helps us create more spaces for queer joy, fund community-led projects and keep opportunities accessible to those who need them most.
Can't donate? That's absolutely fine. Your presence is enough.
Donate what you can, if you can. Show up as you are. Help us reclaim space together. ❤️
This event is made possible through grant funding from Westminster City Council, alongside the support of our sponsors, partners and community.
A huge thank you to Her Own Recordings, Micro Rainbow, LDN Shuttle Service, DrinkBesa, CANS as well as everyone who has donated or supported this project.
Community makes this possible. Every contribution matters.
🍻 BYOB: BRING YOUR OWN BOTTLE (OR SOBER ALTERNATIVE)
THE RECLAIM IS STRICTLY BYOB.
No overpriced bar. No £15 cocktails. No financial jump scares.
Bring your own bottle, your favourite soft drink, or your preferred alcohol-free alternative. We want you to enjoy yourself without feeling pressured to spend money you don't have.
Because cozzy livs is killing us all, and sometimes a little help goes a long way. 💸
DrinkBesa is helping keep us fuelled with their amazing bevs in a can, especially for anyone whose bank account is looking a little tight.
No shame in that. We're all trying to make it through the month with something left in the bank.
🥫 SOBER KINGS, QUEENS AND EVERYONE IN BETWEEN: We've got you covered with a LARGE selection of sober alternatives sponsored by CANS. You don't need alcohol to be part of the party.
Come as you are. Spend what you can. Or spend nothing at all. You're still welcome here.
🎟️ Do I need a ticket if entry is free?
YES. Absolutely. No exceptions.
You must book a ticket in advance, even though it's free. Capacity on the bus is limited, so no ticket means no entry. Please don't turn up expecting to walk on. We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable experience, and that starts with knowing who's on board.
📍 Where does the event start?
We'll be starting at Charing Cross, London. Please check your ticket confirmation and any event updates for the exact meeting point, arrival time and travel information.
♿ Is the bus wheelchair accessible?
The ground floor is wheelchair accessible. Please email or message us in advance so we can coordinate with LDN Shuttle Service and ensure the appropriate ramp arrangements are in place.
🚻 Are there toilets on board?
Yes, there are toilets on board. However, the onboard toilets are not wheelchair accessible. If you have access requirements or would like to discuss arrangements ahead of the event, please contact us before the day so we can talk through the available options.
🚬 Can I smoke or vape?
Smoking is permitted strictly on the upper deck, subject to the event team's safety instructions and any applicable restrictions. Vaping is also permitted in accordance with the bus operator's rules. Please follow any instructions from the team on the day.
🌬️ Will there be opportunities to get off the bus?
Yes! There will be scheduled stops where attendees can get off, stretch their legs and get some fresh air. Please follow the event team's guidance so we can keep everything running safely and smoothly.
📸 Will there be photography or filming?
Photography and filming may take place during THE RECLAIM to document the event and celebrate the community involved.
If you would prefer not to appear in photos or videos, please let our photographer or event team know when you arrive so we can discuss arrangements. We want everyone to feel as comfortable as possible being part of the event.
🍔 Will food be provided?
We're DESPERATELY working on it! 👀
Food isn't confirmed at the moment, so please eat beforehand and keep an eye out for updates. We're doing what we can, and we'll let you know if anything changes.
💸 Can I donate to Spectrum?
Absolutely. Tickets are free, and donations are entirely optional. If you're able to contribute, donate what you can, if you can. Every contribution supports Spectrum's work creating community-led spaces and opportunities for LGBTQIA+ people.
If you can't donate, please don't worry. We want you there.