Stars of a Middlesbrough-set sitcom have joined Sir Stephen Fry and Dannii Minogue in a campaign for greater support for LGBTQ+ youth.
Elijah Young, Alexandra Mardell and Peter McPherson, who star in the BBC Three comedy Smoggie Queens, are among 30 LGBTQ+ celebrities and high-profile allies taking part in a new film by youth charity The Proud Trust.
The Deserve Better campaign hopes to raise awareness of the challenges facing LGBTQ+ young people and advocates for safer spaces, greater understanding and improved support.
By getting involved with the campaign, Smoggie Queens stars are strengthening Northern connections and awareness of the project - particularly across Teesside.
The sitcom, created by Phil Dunning, follows a group of LGBTQ+ friends living in Middlesbrough and first aired on BBC Three and BBC iPlayer in 2024.
Earlier this year, the BBC announced the show had been recommissioned for a third series.
Stars of Smoggie Queens are backing the project.
(Image: Hat Trick Productions/Matt Crockett)
Elijah, who was born and raised in Teesside, is joined in the campaign by Hartlepool-born actor Peter McPherson and former Coronation Street star Alexandra Mardell.
They join a host of well-known names from television, sport and entertainment, including broadcaster Sir Stephen Fry, singer Dannii Minogue, Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes, comedian Tom Allen, actress Denise Welch and Heartstopper star Kizzy Edgell.
The Proud Trust said the campaign is more important than ever, with LGBTQ+ young people continuously facing significant challenges and prejudice.
According to figures shared by the charity, almost half of LGBTQ+ pupils experience bullying because of who they are, while nearly six in 10 have seriously considered suicide.
Elijah, who plays Stewart on Smoggie Queens, said: "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."
Elijah Young, who portrays Stewart on Middlesbrough-based sitcom Smoggie Queens, is backing The Proud Trust's #DeserveBetter campaign.
(Image: The Prominence Collective)
Alexandra, who plays Lucinda, added: "Feeling accepted can change a young person's life.
"The Proud Trust creates spaces where LGBTQ+ young people can be themselves, make friendships and feel supported, and that's something worth celebrating."
The Proud Trust supports thousands of LGBTQ+ young people through youth groups, mentoring, family services and one-to-one support, helping them navigate the mental health challenges that come with bullying and discrimination.
Alexandra Mardell, who portrays Lucinda on Middlesbrough-based sitcom Smoggie Queens, is backing The Proud Trust's #DeserveBetter campaign.
(Image: The Prominence Collective)
Peter, who plays Harrison, 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."
The charity said referrals increased by 171 per cent following the Supreme Court ruling in 'For Women Scotland Ltd v The Scottish Ministers' - reflecting higher demand for its specialist support services.
Peter McPherson, who portrays Harrison on Middlesbrough-based sitcom Smoggie Queens, is backing The Proud Trust's #DeserveBetter campaign.
(Image: The Prominence Collective)
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Rachel Williams, chief executive of The Proud Trust, said the campaign was intended to send a message of support to LGBTQ+ young people across the country.
"Every LGBTQ+ young person deserves to feel safe, accepted and proud of who they are," Rachel said.
"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."
The campaign film, as well as support information for LGBTQ+ youth, is available through The Proud Trust's social media channels and website.
If you need support, you can contact the following:
- Samaritans are here to listen – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123 or visitsamaritans.org.
- If U Care Share on 0191 387 5661 or text IUCS to 85258.
- SANE on 07984 967 708, Calm on 0800 58 58 58.