Cherry Valentine
Blog,News

Statement on the passing of Cherry Valentine

Just Like Us

Published: September 23, 2022

We are very shocked and saddened to hear about the passing of George Ward, also known as drag queen Cherry Valentine, a fierce advocate for LGBT+ young people.

We were privileged to work with Cherry recently around raising awareness of the need for LGBT+ inclusive education in schools, and Cherry spoke passionately in radio interviews with Just Like Us about the need for more support for LGBT+ young people in education.

“We need to educate people and share the love.”

– Cherry Valentine

Cherry Valentine spoke on BBC Three Counties radio, highlighting the need for more LGBT+ support in schools: “42% of LGBT+ school pupils are being bullied right now.

“Education is the most important thing, and people are scared of things they don’t understand.

“We need to educate people and share the love.”

Cherry was fiercely dedicated to supporting LGBT+ young people and raising awareness of the intersections of being part of both the LGBT+ and Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities.

Our thoughts at Just Like Us are with Cherry’s loved ones at this difficult time.

If you have been affected by this news, please do reach out for support:

Samaritans: 116 123
Switchboard: 0300 330 0630
Childline: 0800 1111

Share this article

Featured posts

  • IGLYO LGBTQI School Survey 2026

    Share your story and make education safer for all with IGLYO LGBTQI School Survey 2026

    Published On: September 25, 2026Categories: News1.5 min read
  • LGBT+ Guide for Parents - guide cover

    How our LGBT+ Guide for Parents and Carers has been ‘life-changing’ for a trans young person, their family and school

    Published On: September 25, 2026Categories: Blog3.2 min read
  • A Pride Group classroom door decorated with rainbow paper chains and Just Like Us posters

    Meet the Pride Group of ‘changemakers’ transforming their school’s culture

    Published On: September 21, 2026Categories: Pride Groups2.4 min read

Donate today to support LGBT+ young people

Just £5 a month could help one of our dedicated project workers reach a struggling LGBT+ teenager, provide them with vital emotional and practical support, and step in early to prevent a crisis before it happens—offering hope, safety, and a path towards a brighter future.