LGBT HERO has appointed Michael Harvey as the organisation’s new Chair following the board meeting held on 13 May 2026, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the national LGBTQ+ health, equality and rights charity.

Michael steps into the role at a significant moment for LGBT HERO as the organisation continues to expand its work across peer-support, mental health, sexual health, campaigning, training and community connection for LGBTQ+ people across the UK.

Alongside Michael’s appointment, LGBT HERO is also pleased to welcome three new trustees to the board: Matthew Pomeroy, Slawek Kosecki and Taofique Folarin.

Michael joined LGBT HERO’s board in 2022 and brings extensive leadership and operational experience alongside a strong passion for LGBTQ+ equality, inclusion and community development.

Speaking about his appointment, Michael said:

“It’s a huge privilege to become Chair of LGBT HERO at such an important time for the organisation. LGBT HERO has built something incredibly special — a charity that genuinely reaches people where they are and supports LGBTQ+ communities in honest, practical and meaningful ways.

What excites me most is the future. The organisation continues to evolve, respond to new challenges and find new ways to support LGBTQ+ people across the UK while staying rooted in community and lived experience.”

Michael added:

“LGBT HERO has never been afraid to have difficult conversations or stand up for LGBTQ+ people when it matters most. Whether it’s peer-support, health inequalities, discrimination, mental health or tackling isolation, the organisation continues to make a real difference in people’s lives every day.

I’m excited to work alongside the board, staff and volunteers as we continue building on that work and shaping what comes next.”

The appointment comes as Alan Palmer steps down following more than a decade of involvement with the organisation, including ten years as Chair.

During his time on the board, Alan helped guide the organisation through some of the most significant moments in its history — including the transition from GMFA to LGBT HERO, the COVID-19 pandemic, financial rebuilding and the preservation of the organisation’s archives at the Bishopsgate Institute.

Reflecting on his time with the organisation, Alan said:

“What I once saw as brash and abrasive, I came to understand as necessary, community-led campaigning that saved lives and gave people a voice.

It’s been a privilege to watch the organisation grow into what LGBT HERO is today while still holding onto the values and spirit that made GMFA so important to so many people.”

Chief Executive Ian Howley said:

“I’m incredibly excited to welcome Michael as our new Chair. Michael brings real warmth, energy and leadership to the organisation, alongside a genuine belief in the importance of community, inclusion and supporting LGBTQ+ people to thrive.

This feels like an exciting moment for LGBT HERO. Alongside our new trustees Matthew, Slawek and Taofique, we’re continuing to strengthen the organisation for the future and build on the work we’ve developed over the last decade.

I also want to personally thank Alan for everything he has given to LGBT HERO over the years. Alan helped guide this organisation through some incredibly difficult moments and played a huge role in helping LGBT HERO become the organisation it is today. His contribution to this charity and community has been enormous.”

As LGBT HERO enters this new chapter, the organisation does so with renewed energy, a strengthened board and a continued commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ people across the UK through information, peer-support, campaigning, training and community action.

With Michael Harvey stepping into the role of Chair alongside the appointment of new trustees Matthew Pomeroy, Slawek Kosecki and Taofique Folarin, LGBT HERO will focus firmly on the future — continuing to grow its impact while staying rooted in the communities it was created to serve.

And while the organisation looks ahead, it does so recognising the people who helped shape the path to get there.

After more than a decade of leadership, Alan Palmer leaves behind a lasting impact on LGBT HERO’s story — helping guide the organisation through challenge, change and transformation while ensuring it never lost sight of the community at its heart.

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Photo © Michal L Harvey | Instagram