QUEERCIRCLE was formed in 2016 as a grassroots, community response to the closure of over 60% of LGBTQ+ spaces in the capital in the previous decade. The remaining spaces were pubs, bars and clubs and operated as for-profit businesses excluding many other members of the community. There was a need then to offer a vital alternative to those who can’t access these spaces including: those without financial resources, young people due to licensing restrictions, older people due to access needs and discrimination, as well as those who aren't comfortable around alcohol such as people recovering from alcohol misuse (a particular issue for LGBTQ+ people) or those of particular faiths. Simultaneously, London was seeing a steep decline in the number of available and/or affordable artists studios so QUEERCIRCLE’s focus from the start was to provide an alternative space for LGBTQ+ people that celebrated arts and creativity.

QUEERCIRCLE launched with an exhibition alongside a series of performances and events including walking tours and screenings. Our approach was grassroots. With no funding, everyone contributed on a volunteer basis. It provided us with the opportunity to test out what worked, what was needed and to listen to what the community had to say. This series of events attracted over 500 people across the weekend and encouraged us that QUEERCIRCLE was needed.