Meet Rob Sainsbury - CEO of Switchboard, Our Charity Partner at Projects Ship Street

At Projects we’re proud to support Switchboard LGBT+ Helpline as our local charity partner at Ship Street. Switchboard is an organisation that has been a vital lifeline for LGBTQ+ people since 1974 and as they mark more than 50 years of service, we spoke with their new CEO, Rob Sainsbury, about what this moment means to him and why visibility, advocacy, and community are more important than ever.

A Personal Journey to Pride

Reflecting on his own journey, Rob shared how significant Pride is to him personally.

“Coming out later in life, at 31, was both liberating and challenging. Growing up in a small Welsh valley, I very much felt pressured to fit into the expectations of a ‘heteronormative’ life, suppressing who I wanted to be (my true self) and limiting my potential. Embracing my identity brought me strength, resilience, purpose and most importantly it brought me happiness.”

Now, as the CEO of Brighton & Hove Switchboard, Rob leads with that personal experience close to his heart.

“Leading a charity dedicated to advocacy, inclusion, and supporting communities

during this critical time is both an honour and a responsibility I cherish. It’s a powerful

reminder of why Pride matters, not just for a month, but every single day.”

Responding to the Challenges Facing LGBTQ+ Communities

Rob steps into the role at a pivotal moment. He doesn’t shy away from speaking about the current climate in the UK – one that’s becoming increasingly hostile for many LGBTQ+ people, particularly those within intersectional communities.

"Much has happened in 2025 that has been deeply challenging for our communities. The recent Supreme Court ruling feels dehumanising, and will inevitably be harmful for TNBI individuals and all those who support them. The UK’s decline in rankings to 22nd out of 49 European nations in LGBTQ+ rights is a sobering reminder of the challenges we still face."

"Ongoing barriers to accessing healthcare, stalled legislation to ban conversion therapy, and restrictive asylum policies all indicate a troubling decline in inclusive LGBTQ+ rights

in the UK. These setbacks cut to the heart of our intersectional communities,

increasing the risk of further isolation, mental health challenges, racism, xenophobia,

and transphobia.”

Why Pride Still Matters

For Rob, Pride is far more than a moment in the calendar – it’s something that lives in everyday life, especially for those working at the heart of LGBTQ+ support.

"Pride is more than just a celebration. It is a statement of resistance, a call for equality, and a powerful demonstration of resilience. It’s a time to reflect on the progress we’ve made, remember those who stood up for our rights, and advocate for those who still face discrimination. It’s about creating safe spaces where everyone can authentically be themselves without fear. It’s a time to be ‘seen’ more prominently than ever.”

At its core, Rob believes Pride is about visibility, safety, and belonging.

“It’s about creating spaces where people can live authentically – where they can be seen, heard and supported without fear.”

That sense of connection is something he embraces not just professionally, but personally too. For Rob, Pride is rooted in community and shared experience – celebrated with the people (and pets) who matter most.

"For me, Pride is always a shared experience with my husband, who has stood by me through every challenge, alongside close friends and family, and often with people I meet along the way, finding common ground in our shared stories. It’s a time to connect, uplift, and stand together in solidarity. And, of course, it’s also a time for our two dogs (Buffy & Giles) to soak up even more attention than usual!”

People Who Inspire Change

Rob draws inspiration from changemakers, activists and allies alike - from headline-makers to everyday volunteers.

“I am continually inspired by those who push boundaries and advocate for change. Recently, at the 2025 METRO PRIDE AWARDS, I watched my friend Suki Sandhu win a Trailblazer Award, a powerful moment that reinforced the impact one person can have. Bimini Bon Boulash’s moving speech on resisting oppression deeply resonated with me, reminding me of our collective strength. I also draw inspiration from pioneers like Gottmik, a champion of LGBTQ+ rights, and allies like Nicola Coughlan and Paloma Faith, who use their platforms to advocate for our communities. It’s inspiring to see so many allies stand up for the TNBI communities at this critical time. We need more voices like theirs. Above all, my team and our volunteers are an inspration to me."

Looking Ahead With Purpose

Rob’s vision for the future is one rooted in equality, collaboration and community-led change.

“As I take on this new role at Switchboard, I am driven by a vision of true equality and

inclusion, a world where every LGBTQ+ person feels valued, seen, and safe. Locally,

I hope to see greater collaboration, understanding, and action to address the

challenges we still face.”

"At Switchboard, we remain committed to advancing our incredible social prescribing

service for TNBI individuals. Our Domestic Abuse service continues to provide vital

support to victims and survivors in partnership with other dedicated organisations.

Our BOLD service will focus on supporting older people and those experiencing

bereavement, dementia, social isolation, and loneliness. The helpline will remain a trusted point of contact, offering help, advice, and guidance to those who need it."

Our mission is clear: to listen, support, connect, and advocate for LGBTQ+ people."

Support Switchboard at Our Pride Party

Switchboard’s work has never been more vital. Through its dedicated volunteers, the charity provides confidential, non-judgemental support by phone, email and instant message – on everything from coming out and gender identity, to mental health and navigating isolation.

As a way to show our support, we’re hosting a Pride Party at Helm Gallery - and all ticket proceeds will go directly to Switchboard. Pay as you feel tickets are available now, and the evening promises music, live drag, drinks, and a whole lot of joy.

👉 Book your ticket to our Pride Party at Helm Gallery

👉 Learn more about Switchboard’s work

Together, we can help ensure Rob and the Switchboard team have the support they need to keep doing what they do best: listening, supporting, and standing with the LGBTQ+ community - today and always.