About Us
The Edward Carpenter Community (ECC) is a loose network of men who love men, bound together by an interest in community-building, personal growth and mutual support. We grew initially out of a number of housing co-operatives in the late 1970s and early 1980s, and as a response to the HIV crisis and the oppressive social and political climate towards gay men at that time. We held our first gay men's retreats in 1985 and continue to welcome all men who love men, whether they identify and gay, bi, trans or queer, and we are open to all ages, ethnic and social backgrounds and abilities.
Week-long retreats and residential weekend events remain the core of our activity, but we have a number of local monthly groups around the UK and the connections made on our events tend to create bonds of friendship which can last a lifetime.
Here we've tried to give a flavour of our origins, our values and our inspirations. If you'd like to learn more, or discover whether our community is for you, please feel free to contact us, or consider attending one of our events.
How do I join ECC?
What to Expect on our Events
What we love about ECC
Who was Edward Carpenter?
1844 - 1929
Vision and Values
Heart Circles
Speaking and listening from the heart
Our History
How we Operate
Consensus Decision-Making
Newsletter
Edward Carpenter Community Trust
FAQs
Frequently-asked questions