Liverpool’s newest event for queer women and non-binary people will return this Saturday (May 4) at the Quarry.
‘SWITCH’ emerged onto Liverpool’s queer scene last summer and has continued to grow in popularity ever since.
It started after co-founders Char and Maz were on holiday together and discussed the lack of spaces for queer women in the city.
Char told Merseynewslive: “There’s a lot of events for queer women in London and Manchester, but there’s not much in Liverpool at the moment.”
The first two events took place in August and October last year and sold out both times.
That showed they were not the only ones who felt that way.
“We wanted to focus on the community, being by queer people for queer people was really important for us.
“Allies are welcome, as long as they’re a part of a wider group and respect the purpose of the event.”
The creators ensure they support queer artists and the event will host three DJs who will each be doing two-hour sets.
An important part of finding a venue was supporting an independent business, and making sure it was a safe space for queer people.
Char added: “We try to make it very clear that transgender and non-binary people are always welcome.
“We recognise that they need to feel safe at our events.”
She said she was nervous about contacting venues, as she was unsure how they would react.
However, she realised they had found the right place for their first event after speaking to staff at The Tank Room.
“We weren’t sure if he would understand, but it turns out his mums were lesbians – and so was the girl behind the bar who was a photographer.
“She even ended up doing our photography!”
Although they have had a few negative comments on TikTok, Char said the overall response has been positive.
“We’ve had more good comments than bad comments. It pays off, it’s worth it.”
The creators said SWITCH has allowed them to do something different and creative, outside of their usual office jobs.
Char and Maz hope to continue holding regular events and discussed the possibility of an event for Liverpool Pride this summer.
“Long term, we just want to keep SWITCH going.
“It’s about putting on a good event for people – not about selling thousands of tickets and growing massively.”
SWITCH will be held at The Quarry in Liverpool from 9pm to 3am.
For more information visit their Instagram account @switch.liverpool
 at the Quarry.){kind=link}