About Footprints of Love

Footprints of Love is an 18-month heritage project documenting, celebrating, and preserving the LGBTQ+ history of the London Borough of Newham.

We’re working with community members, historians, and heritage professionals to create the first permanent LGBTQ+ collection within Newham’s official archives. This isn’t just about looking back – it’s about building something that will grow with our community for generations to come.

The project is supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Why This Project, Why Now

Newham has a rich and largely untold LGBTQ+ history. From the pubs and clubs that provided sanctuary in the 1970s and 80s, to the community centres that hosted support groups and social events, to the activists who fought for rights and recognition – this borough has been home to queer life for decades.

But much of this history exists only in memory. The people who built these spaces, who organised, who simply lived their lives with courage – many are now in their 70s, 80s, and 90s. Their stories are irreplaceable.

At the same time, Newham Heritage Centre – the official home of the borough’s historical collections – has never had a dedicated LGBTQ+ archive. That’s about to change.

The Team

Cameye Arts CIC is the lead organisation, bringing expertise in documentary filmmaking, community engagement, and heritage interpretation.

Newham Heritage Service is our key partner, ensuring the collection will be properly preserved and accessible for future generations.

On The Record are our oral history partners.