Is there a similar sport or physical activity group running in your local area?

Research other groups that currently exist locally, to understand whether your group will fill a gap.

If there are similar groups, are they LGBTQ+ specific or mainstream?

Consider what your group will be offering that is different - this is something you can highlight when promoting your group.

If there is existing mainstream activity, you might consider working with the other group to create some specific LGBTQ+ provision.

You should be aware, however this might limit how your offer is structured, as you may need to adhere to existing policies, procedures and affiliation requirements.

Do other LGBTQ+ sports or physical activity groups exist in your area?

Make sure to research LGBTQ+ groups that exist locally and take note of their activity days and times.

We know that LGBTQ+ people are willing to travel further to participate in LGBTQ+ specific sports or physical activity groups. Therefore, look for groups within a wider area.

Consider whether you will be looking to attract similar participants, or whether your group will be engaging different members of the community. You might consider contacting organisers of other LGBTQ+ sports and physical activity groups to share your plans and hear their successes and challenges.

It is really important to know your local community.

This will help you find your potential participants. Do many LGBTQ+ people live in the area? What LGBTQ+ services and groups exist locally and which LGBTQ+ communities do they work with? Building a relationship with LGBTQ+ services and groups can be useful, as they can promote your group through their networks. In the early stages, they might also know if people within their networks are interested in a particular sport or physical activity.

Some activities, especially team sports, require a larger number of participants.

Consider the activity you are planning to provide and the number of participants needed. Clearly identify who your group is for and how you can make your session accessible.

You can assess interest for your group in the following ways:

• Ask friends and contacts to see if they are interested or know of people who may be interested in joining
• Gauge interest in LGBTQ+ facebook groups and via other social media platforms
• Reach out to local LGBTQ+ services to see if their users will be interested
• Contact Pride Sports to share your plans, as Pride Sports can use their existing database and social media network to promote your group.

When researching interest, give people the opportunity to share what they are looking for, from sport and physical activity groups.

This will help you to understand their motivations and structure your group to meet their needs, where possible.