MESMAC Newcastle works with gay and bisexual men and offers:
Stonewall
Stonewall campaigns for the equality of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people across Britain and provides information, support and resources. There is also Stonewall Youth for people under 25 years.
The Proud Trust
The Proud Trust helps LGBT+ young people empower themselves, to make a positive change for themselves, and their communities. This is achieved through youth groups, coordinating national and regional LGBT+ youth work networks, delivering training, running events and campaigns, undertaking research and creating resources.
LGBT Foundation
The LGBT Foundation is a national charity delivering advice, support and information services to LGBT communities. Services include a befriending service, talking therapies, advocacy and health information.
Northumberland Pride
Northumberland Pride is a county wide charity set up to raise awareness of LGBT+ culture and heritage.
In practice it provides safe spaces which break down barriers and promote inclusion and support across Northumberland, with a vision to celebrate LGBT+ life with allies through events, project work and the delivery of services.
Mermaids
Mermaids supports transgender, nonbinary and gender-diverse children and young people until their 20th birthday, as well as their families and professionals involved in their care.
Transgender, nonbinary and gender-diverse children and teens need support and understanding, as well as the freedom to explore their gender identity. Whatever the outcome, Mermaids is committed to helping families navigate the challenges they may face.
TYA Rainbow
TYA Rainbow was set up by Trinity Youth Association, offering support for LGBT young people in the north east of England. There are a number of social groups in the area where you can meet other young people, chat, hang out, get advice and information and just be yourself in a gay and transgender friendly environment. Visit the website to register as a member, find out more about social groups and join in the discussion in the forum.
Switchboard
Switchboard is a LGBT+ helpline, providing a safe space for anyone to discuss anything, including sexuality, gender identity, sexual health and emotional well-being.
The helpline is open from 10.00am to 10.00pm every day – call: 0300 330 0630. There is also a webchat service.
MESMAC (Newcastle)
MIND – Mental Health
MIND has information about mental health support for people who are(LGBTIQ+ or questioning.
Anyone can experience a mental health problem. But those who identify as LGBTIQ+ are more likely to develop problems like:
- low self-esteem
- depression
- anxiety, including social anxiety
- eating problems
- misusing drugs and alcohol
- self-harm
- suicidal feelings
- other mental health problems.
Being LGBTIQ+ does not cause these problems. The reasons why those of us with LGBTIQ+ identities are more likely to get these things are most likely to do with facing things like:
- homophobia, biphobia and transphobia
- stigma and discrimination
- difficult experiences of coming out
- social isolation, exclusion and rejection.
It’s important to remember that embracing your LGBTIQ+ identity can also have a positive impact on your wellbeing. It might mean you have:
- increased confidence
- improved relationships with your friends and family
- a sense of community and belonging
- the freedom of self-expression and self-acceptance
- increased resilience.
FFLAG
FFLAG is a national voluntary organisation and registered charity supporting parents and families and their LGBT+ members.
It offers support to local parents groups to help parents and families understand, accept and support their lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender members with love and pride. FFLAG volunteers are parents of lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans children supported by other volunteers.
Age UK has put together a guide about meeting the needs of older lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people using health and social care services. Read the guide at the link below.