Scene Magazine - April 2025 by Scene LGBTQ+ Magazine

FARWELL, MAISIE

A light went out last month with the passing of the UK’s oldest drag queen David Raven aka Maisie Trollette

)

Born in 1933 in the quaint Cornish town of St Ives, David’s journey from trainee grocer and publican to drag legend was interesting to say the least. He came out at the age of 26 in 1959, when being gay in the UK was still illegal. A year later, when even a hint of “campness” could get you beaten

up in the streets, David took the brave step of moving to London in the hope of finding both himself, and other likeminded people.

That one train journey would be the turning point for David, and the start of his professional drag career. Ever mindful of having a “sensible

job”, David found himself working at Selfridges by day and experimenting with his drag persona in the evenings. It wasn’t long before he met James (Jimmy) Court

They quickly realised that they shared the same anarchic sense of humour and interest in drag as an art form. In the months that followed, they worked tirelessly to create their first drag double act, which subsequently won them a talent competition at the Black Cap in Camden Town.

Around the same time, David met his life partner Don Coull. It was actually Don that came up with the stage name The Trollettes. Until that time, David and Jimmy’s drag had been a little dowdy and frumpy. Don suggested that it would give the act a boost if they glammed up a bit, famously adding that they looked like a “pair of trolls”. David and Jimmy thought that was hysterical. The name stuck and The Trollettes were born!

In subsequent years, The Trollettes became the superstars of the drag and cabaret circuit, regularly reducing their audience to tears with their trademark comedic anarchy. They appeared together in pantomime as the ‘Ugly Sisters’ and they even recorded an album The Trollettes Live at The Cricketers with Lee Paris

Following an unexpected win on the football pools, David moved to Brighton in the late ‘70s. Jimmy stayed in London and the geographic distance between them meant that they were not always so regularly available to perform together. As a result, both Jimmy and David often worked more independently.

David went on to appear as a solo artist and compered many variety shows. He even appeared in his own one man show, An Evening with David, which played several London cabaret

rooms, as well as numerous regional theatres.

On stage he appeared in the plays The Boys In The Band and One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest. Abroad, Maisie appeared in the Canary Islands, Ibiza, Denmark and as far afield as Thailand, South Africa and Australia. In his late ‘60s he became the face of Accurist, the watch manufacturer, with his face on giant posters all over the London underground.

Always the first to volunteer to perform for charity, it was this philanthropic streak that would see David go on to raise hundreds of thousands of pounds throughout this lifetime. He was a founder member and patron of Brighton Cares, and co-founded the Beacon Players with fellow drag artist Dave Lynn, as way of raising funds for the Sussex Beacon.

When David’s partner Don passed away from with AIDS-related complications, his determination to raise even more money for the Sussex Beacon became a particular source of pride and purpose for him. Remarkably, he was still supporting and raising cash for the charity when he appeared at the Brighton Dome to celebrate his 90th birthday. This landmark performance saw him acclaimed as the UK’s oldest working drag artist.

Away from the fundraising, David owned and ran the iconic Rowland House guest house in Kemptown, where it’s rumoured some of the best

parties in town were often held. Always a savvy businessman, David ensured that he regularly plugged the hotel during his act. In fact, he did it so often that the entire audience could quote his guest house telephone number back to him. Brilliant advertising!

Never one to shirk a little glamour, Maisie afforded David the opportunity to work and become friends with some incredible A-list celebrities. They have included Paul O’Grady (Lily Savage), Danny La Rue, Diana Dors, Colin Baker, Paul Zerdin, Sir Ian McKellen, Craig Revel Harwood, Wendy Richard, Chris Hayward, The Beverly Sisters, Eartha Kitt, Wendy Craig, Billy Pearce, Russell Watson, June Brown, Petula Clarke, Christopher Biggins, Dorothy Squires and Julian Clary, to name but a few.

Always a popular headliner at annual Pride events Maisie represented everything positive and good about the gay community. His lightning fast wit, dynamic voice and stunning costumes ensured that everyone always had a wonderful time whenever he performed.

He would revel in the joy of seeing an entire audience singing along or crying with laughter, and although the odd “F” word may have slipped out occasionally on stage, no one ever took offence. The truth is, they were laughing too much to care!

Away from the stage David was a quiet, humble man who had a passion for horse racing. He loved his garden, he loved his friends and he loved the life that he had worked so hard to carve out for himself.

In his latter years, sadly David was diagnosed with dementia. Despite the love and efforts of a close circle of friends who cared for him at home, he was eventually moved from his beloved flat in Kemptown to a nursing home in Brighton, where he passed away on 12 March 2025

David’s passing has undoubtedly cast a dark shadow over the whole of the gay scene. He was an institution, a legend, and yes, drag royalty. He wanted nothing more than to entertain and to send us on our way with a happy heart. He would not want you to be sad at his passing, but rather remember him fondly, talk of him often and share your memories of him with one another. He would love that.

) The funeral of David Raven (Maisie Trollette) will be held on Thursday, April 3 at St Mary’s Church in Kemptown, Brighton.

People wanting to attend are asked to meet at Legends Brighton on Marine Parade for 9.30am wearing ‘anything but black’.

“They’re really out here calling us men, girls.”

Trans RuPaul’s Drag Race favourite Adore Delano denied female passport by US Government.

Poole Pride to return for 2025!

With its home at Lighthouse - Poole's centre for the arts - the day-long free festival on Saturday, 7 June plans to include cabaret, comedy and music performances as well as workshops, talks and craft..

Britons facing "exorcisms" to cure their sexuality and/or gender identity

New research commissioned by Stonewall has uncovered the “shocking scale” of conversion practices in Great Britain; interventions that seek to change, cure, or suppress an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity.

Cynthia Erivo honoured for empowering LGBTQ+ community

Cynthia Erivo was one of the winners at the 2025 GLAAD Media Awards - honouring the best in LGBTQ+ media - on Thursday, March 27.

Local Labour MPs banned from attending Trans Pride Brighton

Trans Pride Brighton has announced on social media it has banned local Labour MPs from this year’s event due to the "damage they are doing to the trans and nonbinary community".

Trans is Human photography exhibition

Westfield London in Stratford invites you to experience Trans Is Human, an inspiring and thought-provoking photography exhibition honouring Transgender Day of Visibility.

NOW THAT’S WHAT I CALL DAVE 50!

Event celebrating Dave Lynn’s 50 years in drag raises almost £1,000 for Alzheimer’s Research UK, in memory of David Raven aka Maisie Trollette and Dame Barbara Windsor

) Stars of the cabaret scene, including Drag With No Name, Sally Vate and Alfie Ordinary, gathered to help Dave Lynn celebrate a fabulous 50 years in drag at Legends Brighton last month.

The event, a fundraiser for Alzheimer’s Research UK, raised almost £1,000: £195 from reserved seating, which was multiplied by five (for each decade), giving a total of £975.

This donation was made in memory of Dave’s dear friends, David Raven aka Maisie Trollette and the legendary Dame Barbara Windsor

Legends Brighton said: “A huge thank to everyone who attended such a special night for our Dave Lynn and a massive milestone of 50 years in drag!

“Dementia impacts the very core of who we are, our connection to the world, the people we love, the memories we cherish. With dementia, we slowly lose these. No one should have to endure the heartbreak of dementia. And that’s why Alzheimer’s Research exists.”

Dave Lynn added: “What a night! I would like to thank Erica and Bradley and everyone at Legends Brighton.

“To my fabulous friends, who were guests and those who weren’t!

Especially to Tamzin and Peter Castle for making the show so good

“Thank you to all of you that came along and supported.”

Any plans for a trip to the UK? Going to the UK would be a dream. I

National Student Pride celebrates 20th Anniversary

The annual event celebrated its 20th anniversary by looking to the future in their mainstage panel, Queer Question Time: The Future of Pride, which was hosted by Natasha Devon MBE and included Juno Dawson among others.

Inquest opens into the death of Welsh drag queen with a “heart of gold”

Gareth Stephenson, who performed as Dynasty Blake, died after his car collided with a lorry near Llanidloes, Wales in February 2025.

"I can feel an anti-gay rhetoric."

Our pop music columnist Dale Melita shares his top tracks and album of the month!

"You’re going to judge me based on what you think my sexuality is?”

Texas frontwoman Sharleen Spiteri, who won the Inspirational Ally Award at the inaugural Metro Pride Awards, has said she receives 'homophobic abuse' despite not being gay.

India Willoughby reacts to “transphobic” gym owner

The trans rights activist said a “transphobic” gym owner will have to do “undie inspections” after banning trans women from the premises despite taking donations on the basis they would be welcome.

Irish TV presenter Brendan Courtney, the first openly gay presenter in Ireland, warns of a rise in "anti-gay rhetoric" after he was attacked in Dublin.

“I didn’t have someone like me when I was growing up."

Kevin Penrose, an active Gaelic football player, who publicly came out in February, has urged other sports people to come out.

World Athletics to initiate mandatory genetic testing of women athletes

Sebastian Coe, President of World Athletics, has announced the organisation will initiate genetic testing of women athletes to ban trans women from competing..

Global brewing company terminates 30-year relationship with St Louis Pride

An LGBTQ+ venue in St Louis, US has called for a boycott of Anheuser-Busch products, including Budweiser, Stella Artois and Beck's, after the brewing company terminated their 30-year relationship with St Louis Pride.

Mayor of Bolton welcomes six drag queens to "promote inclusion"

The Mayor of Bolton, Councillor Andy Morgan, welcomed Kristal Kane, Jackie Love, Viva la Diva, Shazza Fierce, Pixy Lation and Mona Moans to the Mayor's Parlour last month.

Elton John and David Furnish become patrons of Queer Britain

Queer Britain is a museum of British LGBTQ+ history and culture located in Kings Cross, London. It is the first dedicated LGBTQ museum in the UK.

"In our view, the Office for Students is perpetuating the culture wars."

University of Sussex to legally challenge a decision by the Office for Students after it was fined a record £585,000 for "failing to uphold freedom of speech".

SWITCHBOARD @ 50

As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Brighton & Hove LGBTQ+ Switchboard, Alf Le Flohic looks back at its origins

) Hello, Brighton 27878. You’ve reached the Lavender Line, how can we help?

The first call came into Brighton & Hove LGBTQ+ Switchboard 50 years ago, on 25 April 1975 to be exact. It was known as The Lavender Line back then, but we’ll get to that.

It’s hard to imagine what it was like trying to get information about local gay life in the early 1970s. If you were lucky, your town had a noticeboard in an independent bookshop or café, or maybe even an underground magazine. Thankfully Brighton had all of those ingredients, which allowed a counter-cultural scene to thrive.

Having a queer person with regional information at their fingertips, on the end of a phone line, was revolutionary. Even if you had to join the queue outside a public phone box to have a private conversation with them. It was in March 1974 that the London Lesbian & Gay Switchboard was launched, offering access to “news of the activities of gay groups around the country, gay pubs, clubs and discos, facts about VD, advice on legal problems.” (Gay News)

As with many other things, Brighton was hot on the heels of London, and just over a year later Brighton had its own switchboard.

The Open Café at 7 Victoria Road in the Montpelier area of town, proved to be integral to the birth of Switchboard. The café opened in September 1971, set up by a pair of gay-friendly hippies, Bruno and Alan. Right from the start they allowed the Sussex Gay Liberation

Front (GLF) to run gay counselling meetings from their premises.

The Argus flatly refused to let the GLF advertise, but thankfully the local free press got the word out, including the magazine Attila produced by boyfriends Bill Butler and Mike Hughes of Unicorn Bookshop

Setting up an information service had been a goal of the Sussex GLF, but not having an office in which to locate a telephone had made that tough to achieve. In February 1974, a few disenchanted men and women from Sussex GLF formed a separate group calling themselves ‘The Lavender

People’, announcing later that year they planned to set up a switchboard. Once again, the Open Café saved the day, providing the location as well as their own phone number.

Amazingly David Maplesden has a photo of him on the phone in the small switchboard office. The fact that it was used in part as storage for the café might explain the carton of eggs in front of him. Or maybe not!

The photo was taken by David’s American boyfriend Jacques de Tersac. A number of people have cited Jacques as being the reason it was called The Lavender Line. He had volunteered at San Francisco Gay Switchboard in 1971 and was aware of two US groups formed in 1973: The Lavender Menace and The Lavender Panthers

In an unusual act of solidarity, members of Sussex GLF and Brighton Campaign for Homosexual Equality helped to staff the phone lines, enabling switchboard to be running seven nights a week by February 1976. A name change to Brighton Gay Switchboard swiftly followed (presumably for clarity), and later that year the gay befriending phone service Brighton Icebreakers merged their services with them.

It was the community effort of local activists and volunteers that ensured the survival of Brighton Switchboard back then, something that remains true today. Thank you for your service.

) Queer Heritage South will be celebrating 50 years of Switchboard at their LGBTQ+ History Club on Sunday, 27 April. Tickets: www. queerheritagesouth.co.uk/s/queerheritage-south/item/2282.

Thousands protest in Budapest against law

banning Pride march

An estimated 2,000 people protested in Budapest on March 25 against a new law that aims to ban the annual LGBTQ+ Pride march and allows the use of facial recognition software to identify attendees.

Brighton & Hove Pride hires digital agency to boost audiences

Spekk will now work closely with Pride to boost attendance at Pride in the Park through a more strategic approach to paid social, while also bringing greater depth to the storytelling around the annual event.

"It's time I do something new"

Olly Alexander has confirmed that he has left his record label a month after releasing his critically acclaimed

Belfast Pride bans political parties from marching over support for ban on puberty blockers

In December, Sinn Féin, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), Alliance and the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) voted to introduce an indefinite ban on puberty blockers for under-18s.

"There are some non-negotiables in my world."

Louise stands up for trans rights after former bandmates' transphobic comments

Californian LGBTQ+ venue bans MAGA gear from its premises

Badlands banned all “MAGA-related attire” after a patron wore a 'Make America Great Again' hat to the venue.

solo album Polari.

TERRY HIGGINS MEMORIAL QUILT

Terry Higgins Memorial Quilt to go on display in the UK’s first LGBTQ+ museum, Queer Britain

) Marking what would have been Terry Higgins’ 80th birthday, Queer Britain will host the Terry Higgins Memorial Quilt. The quilt was produced by Terrence Higgins Trust and the Quilters’ Guild and will be on display in London at the UK’s first and only LGBTQ+ museum from June 11-15.

Since opening its doors in May 2022 in Granary Square, King’s Cross, the museum has welcomed over 100,000 visitors, providing a revolutionary space to celebrate, preserve, and explore LGBTQ+ histories.

The museum is now planning to redevelop its permanent collection and launch a series of series of special exhibitions throughout 2025, celebrating unheard stories, sharing new perspectives, and commemorating key cultural moments, in which the Terry Higgins Memorial quilt will feature. The quilt features eight magnificent panels, representing different elements of Terry’s life, celebrating his legacy and aims to engage as many people as possible in where we are today with the opportunity to end new HIV cases in the UK by 2030.

Museum director Andrew Given explains a new vision for Queer Britain:

“Walking through our galleries never fails to inspire, as I see the record of activism and change that our community has achieved. But there are so many stories yet to be told. That’s why we are delighted to announce this exciting programme of exhibitions and the redevelopment of our permanent collection—ensuring that Queer Britain continues to be a vital space for all LGBTQ+ stories.”

Richard Angell OBE, Chief Executive of Terrence Higgins Trust, added: “For many years at Terrence Higgins Trust, we worked in the name of Terry, but without fully telling his story. This quilt is a literal rich tapestry of his life. It speaks to the experiences of so many queer people, from growing up in a small town, to finding his identity through friendship, community, work and music. I hope those who visit will see something of themselves in Terry’s story, and understand the ways so many of us have benefited from his legacy.

“When Terry died there wasn’t even a test for HIV, let alone any treatment. Now we have the opportunity to end the epidemic in the UK by 2030. We owe it to Terry and everyone we lost to turn that goal into reality.”

) During 2025, the museum will also feature exhibitions celebrating 20 years of UK Black Pride, as well as on Jimmy Sommerville and Bronski Beat

"A victim of transphobic bullying."

An Italian TikToker has taken their own life after internet bullies allegedly targeted them for changing their gender identity.

Iceland tops Gay Travel Index for very first time; UK languishes in 15th

Iceland has joined the world’s most LGBTQ+-friendly travel destinations - Malta, Canada, Portugal and Spain - for the first time in the Spartacus Gay Travel Index.

Nadine Coyle to headline

Portsmouth Pride 2025

Portsmouth Pride - a celebration of diversity and inclusion - will be taking place on Saturday, June 7, on Southsea Common.

Hundreds gather in Dallas, Texas to join the March for Queer & Trans Liberation

The March was held in response to the ongoing wave of anti-LGBTQ legislation and policies in the United States.

"I suppose that's who I am."

TV and stage star Shobna Gulati has revealed that they now identify as non-binary.

Will Young, Loreen and Andy Bell to perform at Brighton & Hove Pride

Living up to the reputation of ‘Britain’s biggest Pride event’, Pride is scheduled to take place at Preston Park on Saturday, August 2 and Sunday, August 3.

Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus to perform at Chichester Pride in May

Known for their powerful performances, the chorus will be bringing their unique sound and uplifting message of inclusion, equality, and diversity to the stage at this year’s Pride celebration.

Gay footballer Josh Cavallo reveals ongoing daily death threats

"Being an openly gay player in football is a very toxic place," says trailblazing athlete who continues to face severe harassment despite historic visibility

Brighton Fringe 2025 previews

Brighton Fringe will this May celebrate its 20th birthday with over 4,000 performances at 140 venues.

Brighton academic launches city’s first dedicated queer therapy hub

University of Brighton lecturer and researcher Charlotte Wilcox has launched the city’s first dedicated queer therapy hub to help bridge the gap between traditional psychotherapy and queer-specific support.

Drag Race UK star Crystal appears in tongue-in-cheek climate campaign

Crystal said: “We don’t have time to drag our heels on the climate crisis. We need urgent action now."

Eastbourne Pride to return this year on Saturday, July 19

Organisers say: “Our mission is to celebrate diversity, embrace individuality, and create an engaging space where everyone feels welcome."

Trans woman’s prison sentence for ‘insulting’ Jesus must be quashed, Amnesty International says

On March 10, a court in Indonesia found trans woman Ratu Thalisa, known online as Ratu Entok, guilty of spreading hate speech against Christianity.

Gay bar co-owned by Drag Race star Trixie Mattel, closes its doors

Founded in 2010, This Is It! opened in 1968 before being taken over by the drag superstar.

"Hey, hey. Ho, ho! Commonwealth homophobia has got to go!"

Leaders from 29 Commonwealth countries that criminalise LGBTQ+ people were met with boos and jeers as they arrived at the Commonwealth’s annual service on March 10.

Investigation reveals "devastating impact" of chemsex-related drugs on parts of LGBTQ+ community

In a documentary by ITV News, reporter Sam Leader uncovers the "extreme" harms caused by addictive drugs which are prevalently used by gay, bisexual to enhance intercourse.

"We will always call homophobia; we don't accept it in our town."

Stafford Pride has criticised a "homophobic" church after it was granted permission to move into former Stafford cinema.

Drag queen Orla Nothin’ to run five marathons in five countries for charity

Orla said: “I’m so excited for this challenge, running five marathons in five countries is no easy feat (even though I’m used to running around in eight-inch heels)."

THE POD

Crawley LGBT CIC opens the doors to its brand new LGBTQ+ community safe space, The Pod

) On March 29, Crawley LGBT Community Interest Company (CIC) opened the doors to its brand new LGBTQ+ community safe space, The Pod, for the very first time.

The space, in Tilgate Park, will serve as the organisation’s new office and community base, providing a dedicated hub for Crawley’s LGBTQ+ community.

The newly acquired space will enable the CIC to expand its reach and impact through project-based initiatives, events, and outreach programmes.

The transformation of the hut into a vibrant and welcoming community space was made possible through the generous support of local businesses and volunteers. Crawley Carpet Warehouse, Howdens and Mayo Wynne Baxter provided essential materials and labour, including flooring, kitchen facilities, and painting services, breathing new life into the building.

Crawley LGBT was founded in 2019 by a group of passionate individuals who initially set out to organise Crawley’s first Pride event. While the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily disrupted those plans, the group’s commitment to the LGBTQ+ community remained steadfast.

In 2020, they established the CIC and set their sights on securing

a dedicated space to serve the community’s needs. Through tireless efforts and unwavering dedication, the dream of a community hub has now become a reality.

Julie McAuley-Walker, Co-Director of Crawley LGBT CIC, expressed her enthusiasm for the new space, stating: “Our new dedicated workspace will enhance our team’s efficiency and significantly benefit the local LGBTQ+ community and its allies.

“It will achieve this by fostering

connections, directing individuals to appropriate support services, and offering opportunities for involvement in various projects and activities.”

According to Crawley LGBT, the new community hub “represents a significant milestone for Crawley LGBT CIC and the LGBTQ+ community in Crawley”.

“Our new dedicated workspace will ... significantly benefit the local LGBTQ+ community and its allies.”

With a dedicated space and team for connection, support, and empowerment, the organisation is poised to make a lasting positive impact on the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals in the town and surrounding areas.

) For further information on how you can support the team’s effort and reach, contact: Pride@crawleylgbt.com UK?

Oban named the UK’s new must-visit gay and lesbian destination

Oban – a tiny town in Scotland about two hours’ drive from Glasgow - hosts Oban Lesbian Weekend - one of the country's largest lesbian events – and Oban Pride, which promotes equality and diversity.

"I have never met anybody who came out who

regretted it."

Sir Ian McKellen, who publicly came out at the age of 48 back in 1988, believes gay actors are still being advised to keep their sexualities hidden to avoid damaging their career prospects.

REVIEW: 'The Summer With Carmen'

"A delightful gay comedy, with plenty of men to look at."

Dog walkers, calling for an end to cruising on Hampstead Heath, clash with gay activists

The West Heath area of the park has been a well-known cruising spot, where gay men meet for anonymous sex, since the 19th century when homosexuality was illegal.

Meta booted from San Francisco Pride

Organisers booted the owners of Facebook and Instagram from this year’s Pride, which has the theme Queer Joy is Resistance – seen as a direct response to the anti-LGBTQ+ policies of President Donald Trump.

The Vivienne's "extraordinary life" to be celebrated in new documentary

The documentary will celebrate the life and career of the beloved RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star, who tragically died in January 2025 aged just 32.

GO ALFIE!

”In memory of our beloved Miss Jason”: Drag prince Alfie Ordinary raises almost £3,000 for Sussex Beacon

) Drag prince Alfie Ordinary raised almost £3,000 for local HIV charity Sussex Beacon by running the Brighton Half Marathon and hosting an EastEnders cabaret special at Queen’s Arms Brighton

Alfie said: “Inspired by Snow White Trash, who is running the Brighton Marathon 2025 IN DRAG, I wanted to do my bit raising money for the Sussex Beacon in memory of our beloved Miss Jason

“Over the last few years I have been working with Nissan cheering on runners at different marathon events across the country, and each time I am so moved by the incredible people raising money for their chosen charities that I say to myself “Next year I’ll do it” and so it’s time to put my running shoes on and make it happen!”

) If you haven’t already, there’s still time to donate www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/Alfie-Ordinary-runs-theBrighton-Half-Marathon-2025

This year’s Team Beacon comprised an incredible 400 people, all supporting the Sussex Beacon. To date, Team Beacon 2025 has raised a phenomenal sum in excess of £100,000.

This money will support the Beacon’s Community Services Team’s work, especially its Women and Families Group Formula Milk Programme, which supports and cares for mothers living with HIV. These results mean the Brighton Half Marathon 2025 is the most successful yet for the Brighton-based HIV charity.

Rachel Brett, CEO of The Sussex Beacon added her thoughts, saying ”The Sussex Beacon’s Brighton Half Marathan has been a significant part of the city’s event calendar for more than 30 years. Sunday’s race will go down in our history as the sunniest and our most successful fundraiser to date, helping us to support people living with HIV.

“Thank you to all of our fantastic runners and their supporters; our volunteers and the people of Brighton, for cheering on all of the runners raising funds for the many local and national charities of their choice”.

1 Affinity Bar m

129 St James’s St, BN2 1TH

2 Bar Broadway m

10 Steine St, BN2 1TE

3 Bar Revenge m

5-7 Marine Parade, BN2 1TA www.revenge.co.uk

4 Barber Blacksheep m

18 St George’s Rd, BN2 1EB

5 Bedford Tavern m m

30 Western St, BN1 2PG 01273 739495

6 Brighton Birdcage m

35 Gloucester Rd, BN1 4AQ 01273 624010

7 Brighton Box m

25 Dukes Lane, Ship St, BN1 1BG, 01273 722 036

8 Brighton Sauna m

75 Grand Parade, BN2 9JA 01273 689966

www.thebrightonsauna.com

9 Brighton Tavern m

99-100 Gloucester Rd, BN1 4AP 01273 680365

10 Bulldog m

31 St James’s St Mews, BN2 1RF

11 Camelford Arms mm

30-31 Camelford St, BN2 1TQ 01273 622386

12 Charles Street Tap mm

8-9 Marine Parade, BN2 1TA 01273 624091

www.charles-street.com

13 Centre Stage mm

11-12 Marine Parade, BN2 1TL 01273 688 826

14 Dental Health Spa m

14–15 Queens Rd, BN1 3WA 01273 710831

www.dentalhealthspa.co.uk

15 Engleharts m

49 Vallance Hall, Hove St, BN3 2DE 01273 204411 www.engleharts.co.uk

16 Fallen Angel m

24 Grafton St, BN2 1AQ

17 Grosvenor Bar m

16 Western St, BN1 2PG 01273 438587

18 Hove Hands Massage m Kingsway Court, First Avenue, Hove BN3 2LP. By appt only www.HoveHands.co.uk

19 Legends Bar, Club & Hotel mmm

31-34 Marine Parade, BN2 1TR 01273 624462

www.legendsbrighton.com

20 Marine Tavern mm

13 Broad St, BN2 1TJ 01273 681284

21 Nautilus Lounge m

129 St James’s St, BN2 1TH www.nautiluslounge.com

22 New Steine Hotel & Bistro mmm

Paris House mm

Western Rd, BN3 1AF 01273 724195

112-113 St James’s St, BN2 1TH, 01273 603813 www.prowlerpoppers.co.uk

25 Queen’s Arms m

7 George St, BN2 1RH 26 Railway Club m

4 Belmont, Dyke Rd, BN1 3TF, 01273 328682

27 Regency Tavern mm

32-34 Russell Sq, BN1 2EF 01273 325 652

28 Revenge m

32-34 Old Steine, BN1 1EL www.revenge.co.uk

29 Three Jolly Butchers mm

59 North Rd, BN1 1YD 01273 608571

30 Trading Post & Cup of Joe’s mmm

28 St George’s Rd, BN2 1EE 01273 698873

31 Zone m

33 St James’s St, BN2 1RF www.zonebrighton.co.uk

SERVICES DIRECTORY

LGBTQ+ Services

l Allsorts Youth Project

Youth Groups and One-to-One Support for LGBTQ+ young people under 26 (in-person & online). Weekly sessions 01273 721211 or email info@ allsortsyouth.org.uk allsortsyouth.org.ukk

l Brighton & Hove Police

Report all homophobic, biphobic or transphobic incidents to: 24/7 assistance call police on 101 (emergencies 999) Report online at: www.sussex. police.uk

LGBT team (not 24/7) email: LGBT@sussex.pnn. police.uk

l Brighton & Hove LGBT Switchboard

• LGBT Older People’s Project

• LGBT Health and Inclusion Project

• LGBTQ Disability & Neurodiversity Project

• Rainbow Café Project: support for LGBT+ people with dementia

• Trans and Non-Binary Link Project

• LGBT Grief Encounters Project

• Volunteering opportunities, call Riley 07599 434057

Helpline hours: Wed & Thur, 7–9.30pm; trans-only webchat on Sun 3–5pm: call 01273 359042 or email info@switchboard.org.uk or helpline@ switchboard.org.uk Webchat www.switchboard. org.uk/helpline. www.switchboard.org.uk/brighton Office Number: 01273 234009

l Brighton OneBodyOneFaith Brighton sexuality, gender, & faith Group. Meets monthly. Contact: Nigel Nash nigelnash@me.com. www.onebodyonefaith.org.uk

l Brighton Women’s Centre Info, counselling, drop-in space, support groups admin@Womenscentre.org.uk or visit www. womenscentre.org.uk

l Lesbian & Gay AA

12-step self-help programme for alcohol addictions: Sun, 7.30pm, Chapel Royal, North St, Btn (side entrance). 01273 203 343 (general AA line). www. alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk

l LGBTQ+ Cocaine Anonymous

Meeting every Tues 6.30-8pm, 6 Tilbury Pl, Brighton, BN2 0GY, CA isn’t allied with any outside organisation, and neither endorses or opposes any causes. Helpline 0800 6120225, www.cocaineanonymous.org.uk www.sussexcocaineanonymous.co.uk

l LGBTQ+ NA Group

Brighton-based LGBTQ+ (welcomes others) Narcotics Anonymous group every Tue 6.30–8pm, Millwood Centre, Nelson Row, Kingswood St. 0300 999 1212

l LGBT+ Meditation Group

Meditation & discussion, every 2nd & 4th Thur, 5.30–7pm, Anahata Clinic, 119 Edward St, Brighton. 07789 861 367 or www.bodhitreebrighton.org.uk

l Lunch Positive

Lunch club for people with HIV. Meet/make friends, find peer support in safe space. Every Fri, noon–2.30pm, Community Room, Dorset Gdns Methodist Church, Dorset Gdns, Brighton. Lunch £1.50. 07846 464 384 or www.lunchpositive.org

l MCC Brighton

Inclusive, affirming space where all are invited to come

as they are to explore their spirituality without judgement. 01273 515572 or info@mccbrighton.org.uk www.mccbrighton.org.uk

l MindOut

Independent, impartial services run by and for LGBTQ people with experience of mental health issues. 24 hr confidential answerphone: 01273 234839 or email info@mindout.org.uk and out of hours online chat www.mindout.org.uk

l Navigate

Social/peer support group for trans, non-binary & intersex, AFAB, FTM, transmasculine & gender queer people. Every 2nd Friday of the month from 6-8pm (currently on Zoom) at Possability Place, Windlesham Venue, BN1 3AH (formerly Space for Change) navigatebrighton.co.uk

l Peer Action

Regular low cost yoga, therapies, swimming, meditation & social groups for people with HIV. contact@ peeraction.net or www.peeraction.net

l Rainbow Families

Support group for lesbian and/or gay parents 07951 082013 or info@rainbowfamilies.org.uk. www.rainbowfamilies.org.uk

l Rainbow Hub

Information, guidance and hate incident reporting services for LGBTQ+ communities in Brighton, Hove, and Sussex. Based at the Ledward Centre, Jubilee Street, BN1 1GE. Call 07714 782585 or visit www.therainbowhubbrighton.com

l Some People

Social/support group for LGB or questioning aged 14-19, Tue 5.30-7.30pm, Hastings. Call/text Kerrie Tolley-Cloke 07874 637593 or email somepeople@ eastsussex.gov.uk

l TAGS – The Arun Gay Society

Social Group welcome all in East & West Sussex Areas. Call/Text 07539 513171. More info: www.tagsonline. org.uk

l Victim Support

Anyone seeking help can contact our free 24/7

Supportline number on 0808 16 89 111 or get in touch via the website www.victimsupport.org.uk. A range of tools to help people cope and move forwards after crime can be found at www.mysupportspace.org.uk/moj

l The Village MCC

LGBTQ+ affirming church worship and pastoral care in Kemptown. See www.thevillagemcc.org, or call 07476 667353 for details.

HIV Prevention, Care & Treatment Services

l AVERT

Sussex HIV & AIDS info service 01403 210202 or confidential@avert.org

l Brighton & Hove CAB HIV Project Money, benefits, employment, housing, info, advocacy. Appointments: Tue-Thur 9am-4pm, Wed 9am-12.30pm Brighton & Hove Citizens Advice Bureau, Brighton Town Hall. 01273 733390 ext 520 or www. brightonhovecab.org.uk

l Clinic M

Free confidential testing & treatment for STIs including HIV, plus Hep A & B vaccinations. Claude Nicol Centre, Sussex County Hospital, on Weds from 5-8pm. 01273 523388 or www.brightonsexualhealth.com

l Community HIV Specialist Service

NHS nursing team supporting patients with HIV in the community and offering free HIV training for groups across Brighton & Hove and West Sussex. www.

sussexcommunity.nhs.uk/hiv

l Lawson Unit

Medical advice, treatment for HIV+, specialist clinics, diet & welfare advice, drug trials. 01273 664 722

l The Martin Fisher Foundation

STI HIV self-testing kits via digital vending machines available from: Jubilee Library, Wellsbourne Centre, Portland Road (between Wish Park Surgery and Kamson’s Pharmacy), BMEC Partnership Centre, Prowler and Brighton Sauna. www. themartinfisherfoundation.org

l Substance Misuse Service

Brighton & Hove Recovery Service manages and delivers the adult drug and alcohol services for the city. Change Grow Live (CGL) provides tailored support to adults in Brighton & Hove who identify as LGBTQ+. CGL offers 1-to-1 support, a variety of online and face to face groups. They offer LGBTQ+ specific groups via the peer-led Speakout group and have established links with a wide range of LGBTQ+ services. To refer to the service, email brighton.info@cgl.org.uk or phone 01273 731 900. More info: www.changegrowlive. org/brighton-hove-recovery-service/info

l Sussex Beacon

24-hour nursing & medical care, day care 01273 694222 or www.sussexbeacon.org.uk

l Terrence Higgins Trust Brighton & Hove For more info about these free services go to the THT office, 61 Ship St, Brighton, Mon–Fri, 10am–5pm 01273 764200 or info.brighton@tht.org.uk, facebook.com/THTBrighton

For people living with HIV:

• HIV support services: Info, support & practical advice

• Welfare rights advice: find out about benefits

• Counselling from qualified counsellors for up to 12 sessions

Health Promotion in Brighton & Hove: Provides services for men who have sex with men, anyone from African communities, sex workers of any gender, and trans or non-binary people.

• Visit clinic for free fast HIV & STI testing with results in <10 mins

• Free condoms and lube

• Confidential info and advice on sexual health & HIV

• Face2Face for gay/bi men; negotiating sex, chemsex, newly diagnosed

• Tailored support for sex workers, trans people and African communities

• Outreach - say hello online and in person for info, condoms & lube, and HIV/STI testing at Brighton Sauna, Boiler Room Sauna, Amsterdam, Charles Street Tap, and Legends bar. For details please check facebook.com/THTBrighton

l Sexual Health Worthing Free confidential tests & treatment for STIs inc HIVA; Hep vaccinations. Worthing-based 0845 111345645

National Helplines

l National LGBT Domestic Abuse Helpline at www.galop.org.uk and 0800 999 5428

l Switchboard 0300 330 0630

l Positiveline (Eddie Surman Trust) Mon-Fri 11am-10pm, Sat & Sun 4-10pm 0800 1696806

l Mainliners 02075 825226

l National AIDS Helpline 08005 67123

l National Drugs Helpline 08007 76600

l THT AIDS Treatment 08459 470047

l THT direct 0845 1221200