Peter McPherson, born and raised in Hartlepool, has become a household name by playing Harrison in BBC Three’s Middlesbrough-set comedy “Smoggie Queens.” His other television credits include “Hollyoaks” and “Years and Years”.
He joins Tynemouth TV favourite Denise Welch – best known for her roles in “Coronation Street” and “Waterloo Road” – and Teesside sitcom star Elijah Young – along with 30 LGBTQ+ celebrities and other well known faces – in a new film by The Proud Trust which calls for greater support, safer spaces and understanding for LGBTQ+ young people. The film’s impressive line-up also includes pop icon Dannii Minogue, national treasure Sir Stephen Fry and Olympic legend Dame Kelly Holmes.
Peter said: “Everyone deserves somewhere they can truly belong, and The Proud Trust provides that sense of belonging for thousands of LGBTQ+ young people every year. I hope #DeserveBetter helps even more young people realise they are never alone” while Denise said: “Every child deserves to grow up feeling loved, accepted and safe. The Proud Trust is doing incredible work supporting LGBTQ+ young people when they need it most, and I’m delighted to lend my voice to #DeserveBetter. I hope this campaign reminds young people that there are so many people rooting for them” and Elijah added: “Every LGBTQ+ young person deserves to know they have people in their corner. It’s inspiring to see the invaluable work The Proud Trust is doing to create opportunities for young people to find confidence, community and friendship. I’m a proud supporter of #DeserveBetter!”
A spokesperson said: “The #DeserveBetter campaign was launched earlier this summer to highlight the experiences of LGBTQ+ young people and call for greater understanding, safer spaces and better support. The new film brings all 30 names together behind one message – that every LGBTQ+ young person deserves to feel safe, accepted, heard and able to thrive.”
They added: “The campaign comes at a time when LGBTQ+ young people continue to face significant challenges. Nearly half of LGBTQ+ pupils experience bullying because of who they are, almost six in ten have seriously considered suicide, and almost a quarter may never complete secondary school – twice the national average.”
Rachel Williams, CEO of The Proud Trust, said, “All LGBTQ+ young people deserve to feel safe, accepted and proud of who they are. At a time when LGBTQ+ lives are being debated more than ever, it’s vital that young people know they are valued, supported and never alone. We’re incredibly proud that Denise, Peter, Elijah and the other 27 LGBTQ+ people and allies taking part in the film have chosen to stand with us and support #DeserveBetter. Their voices send a powerful message that there is a whole community standing beside LGBTQ+ young people, championing their right to be themselves and thrive. #DeserveBetter is a call for all of us to do better, as if we come together we can build a future where every young person gets the support, acceptance and opportunities they deserve.”
Anyone wanting more information about The Proud Trust or the #DeserveBetter campaign, should please visit www.TheProudTrust.org or watch the campaign film on Instagram at @The_Proud_Trust
