Opening Doors London - Winter Quarterly

A magazine by and for the older LGBT+ community

Celebrating A Year of ODL Groups, Services and Fun

Q8 Winter 2014/15

Walking Groups, Befriending, Film Nights and much, much more!

ODL is supported by

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For the Winter 2014/15 edition of the Quarterly, the Q team have been busy scouring through the listings, travelling from east to west, north to south, speaking to members and volunteers about their experiences and what it means to be involved in Opening Doors London.

Welcome to Q8!

‘It’s about meeting up with friends and having a catch up’ one member attending the Women’s Social told us, whilst another at the Ealing group explained that the group provided ‘a new venue to socialise in after losing my partner’, with one volunteer stating the reason for their involvement was to ‘give something back to the community that gave up so much to allow me to be proud of who I am today’.

It’s apparent that members and volunteers value their involvement for different reasons, but what comes across throughout all the articles is the sense of community each of the groups provides, a haven for some, a monthly catch up for others, but each as important as the other.

Enjoy the interviews and the articles in this edition, and make 2015 the year you get involved in ODL and the Quarterly! n

Friday ‘Coffee & Cake’ Club Tony, from Q magazine frequents the weekly ODL coffee morning; this is what he found, and some thoughts from some of the other visitors.

I have recently started going to the Friday ‘Coffee & Cake’ Club, in the café at Tavis House, Age UK's main building. I wasn't sure what to expect, but was very impressed. The event runs from 10am -­‐ 12 noon, every Friday.

Tables had been grouped together for ODL, and there was already a lively conversation between several groups of people as I walked in. Having got myself a cup (nay, mug) of coffee (very good coffee too) from the counter, I found somewhere to sit by saying "Can I join you?" A very nice welcome, and I was included in the conversation straight away. I was in the middle of quite a heated, but interesting political discussion; I'm glad the two main parties were sitting on opposite sides of the table!

As the activities listing encourages, one person had brought fairy cakes (what a name!!), several brought biscuits, and they were passing them round. It was welcoming that people were free and easy with the munchies (note to self -­‐ make/bring biscuits next time).

As I sat amongst different groups at the coffee

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table, I was in conversations about housing, prime ministers, different types of sweets, cooking, ballroom dancing, places to walk to, and TV and radio programmes just to start with. Talk about putting the world to rights! The traditional adage of meetings avoiding religion and politics certainly didn't apply here.

As I am now hooked on these Friday coffee mornings (I shall come as often as I can manage), I tried to find out what other people enjoyed. A number of visitors gave me quotes, some very forcefully!

John – The club is at a great central location, and it keeps the brain working!

Nicky – Its mixed, there is no gender segregation.

And it’s nice to make and share cake round. The café is reasonably priced too.

Alan – Its wonderful to socialise and have some interesting and intellectual conversation

In summary I would say that the coffee is excellent, the conversation stimulating and intelligent (sometimes fiery), and the welcome warm. After these meetings, nobody would dare say that old people are miserable and boring!! n

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Dance! Politics! Health!

ODL member Scott Ewing along with Mo Ross and Sue O’Sullivan joined an exploratory adventure initiated by choreographer Patrick Staff. Louise Shelley from The Showroom, the project’s home, also participated fully – first at Tavis House and then at The Place. Scott describes it all.

I’ve Been to a Marvellous Party… I couldn’t have enjoyed it more!

Fascinating people, several of whom have become good friends, came to the Opening Doors-­‐sponsored workshop 'Dance, Politics and Health’, which took place from April through September. Delightfully unstructured, our gatherings discussed ideas about how dance (movement transecting all areas of life) is affected by age, fitness and health; about the ‘politics’ of getting from place to place; and about negotiating infirmity.

We met in a large, mirrored dance studio at The Place near Euston Station, and encouraged by Patrick (a choreographer) and Louise (a projects curator) – both impossibly young -­‐ we sat to chat, and moved to groove in bare feet or flip-­‐flops as and when we felt like it, with music and without.

An extraordinary result is I feel a little more connected to memories of opportunities that beckoned and challenged me decades ago.

Liberating, it’s a frame of mind that should be regularly encouraged!

The Showroom, 63 Penfold Street, London NW8 www.theshowroom.org

Connecting across the years We glimpsed Patrick’s and Louise’s youthful lives. It occurred to me that connecting with others, especially when we reach out and somehow touch the energies of our youthful selves is ‘health’. It’s also the opposite of the depressing belief that nothing will ever change.

I reckon it’s part of the inter-­‐generational dynamic that we oldsters want to be lassoed -­‐ occasionally -­‐ into more interaction with youth’s activities and concerns.

The young are focused necessarily on life as it happens whereas we elders tend to reflect on our own slower, more regular lives. ‘Dance, Politics and Health’ reminded us it’s marvellous when youth and age benefit from the others’ perspective. Too often oldsters are reticent to interrupt the vital flow of youth (for fear of intrusion and/or rejection) unless invited. Twenty-­‐somethings, I’ve discovered, are easy to talk with and are usually up for a laugh.

The Finale The final meeting was held at the multi-­‐purpose art gallery, The Showroom, just off Edgeware Road. Our group met one warm Friday afternoon. We discussed an interview between Patrick and a young sportswoman who is negotiating gradually becoming more disabled.

I was blown away by our workshop – and others. I’ve twice been back to events at The Showroom. I met younger friends there that I’ve since gone to films and other galleries with.

We’ve met for coffee, for a lecture, and enjoyed fast food like I haven’t had for forty years! Now if I feel too old to put on my dance shoes, I know I can still boogie in my flip-­‐flops. n

Cover photo of Mo Ross and Scott Ewing and this page by Patrick Staff.

Opening Doors London (ODL) – www.openingdoorslondon.org.uk

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Films, art, texts, good conversation and a cup of tea Marguerite writes about her involvement and participation as an Opening Doors member.

While I'd known about Opening Doors for a few years it took me until I retired to really get involved in what's on offer and so I have been more involved for nearly a year.

I particularly enjoy the Women's Monthly Film Night because not only do we see films with a lesbian focus we also have some time in a comfortable central London space to chat with old friends and to meet new ones.

OD's Intergenerational Feminist Reading Group offers me an opportunity to review classic works from the 'Second Wave' of Feminism as well as providing some insight into more modern theories and analyses. It keeps me sharp to read interesting non-­‐fiction articles that are circulated in advance of the sessions and it's great to hear other women's thoughts.

I'm now making sure I put the dates in my diary to meet up with the Art Group since there's

always a friendly mix of OD members there, although sometimes I wish more women made the effort to come along since it's always interesting no matter where we go and we always gather for a cuppa and to talk about what we've seen. October's visit to the Museum of Docklands was a place I've long intended to go and there were nearly 20 of us there together for a friendly afternoon out.

Support for older lesbians, gay men, bisexual and transgendered people (LGBT) is very important and there is growing research producing evidence about our needs. Soon it will be time for the management of Age UK's Opening Doors LGBT project to be seeking new funding for the future of the services it offers us and it is my heartfelt wish that we, as users of the service, are fully consulted regarding future plans. No one knows better than we do what our needs are in order for us to 'Love Later Life' as Age UK's publicity encourages us to do. n

Art outings: Cake is where the art is 'I love the art outings group' was the first thing I heard in the Museum of London Docklands café after the ODL group had been to a recent exhibition there on London bridges.

'Varied and imaginative', 'a lot of fun' and 'we often go to places I wouldn't have thought of' were other comments about the visits Chris Barlow organises to galleries and museums.

And yes -­‐ cake and conversation happen in a cafe afterwards.

To come along, contact Chris at: outingsinartevents@gmail.com

Rainbow Surfers

On Thursdays the Rainbow Surfers computer session at Tavis House runs from 10am to 1pm.

Whilst not exclusive LGBT, it is a time and space for ODL members and is run by ODL member Alan.

A busy and friendly session with a mix of users, some like the chance for a chat, others are looking for technical help. You can use the computers or get help with IT problems you are trying to sort out -­‐ take in your tablet or laptop or get some tips on how to use Facebook, Twitter or your new and incomprehensible phone! Age UK Camden offers a range of computer courses starting with Beginners and including Social Networking, Genealogy and Family History and Digital Photography. There is also a gadget clinic. n More information from ODL: 020 7239 0400.

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Bi Visibility Group Nickie organises the group and is keen to encourage more members to attend.

A bisexual is someone who is attracted to more than one gender, it really is as simple as that!

There’s a B in LGBT, which is why Opening Doors needs a bi group, also some bisexuals involved in LGBT groups feel that it’s not safe to come out as bi to lesbian or gay members and a bi group gives them the space to be themselves and relax more. We need a group where we can be sure our gender is not an issue.

Why the name? we had our first meeting on Bi Visibility Day September 23rd 2013. Because we feel invisible it’s nice to be in a group where you feel safe and know you can speak openly about being bisexual and what it’s meant to you through your life.

The meetings are informal, mostly we sit and chat amongst ourselves -­‐ some refreshments are provided. We have special guests at times, these are advertised in the Opening Doors monthly listings and we hope to show a documentary film on bisexuality at our December meeting. Sometimes we go for a drink or a meal after the group finishes at 8pm.

What happens at meetings is largely down to the participants -­‐ we are open to ideas.

Anyone who identifies as bi, or thinks they might be bi, or is interested to learn more about bisexuality and the UK bi community is welcome to attend. The only thing we ask is that you respect each other and keep

confidential anything personal that you learn If we’re not visible we won’t be seen or about anyone else during the meetings. Get in considered when services are planned. We meet touch if you want to learn more or have at Tavis House in the ground floor meeting questions, or come along! n

rooms, between 6 and 8 pm on the third nickie@meeble.net / 07772 619335 Monday of every month.

Happy 1st Birthday to the Women’s Social Group

The Women’s Social Group has been running for just over a year now and the last meeting in October saw the group celebrate their first birthday with a delicious birthday cake donated

by Chelsea Theatre, and an entertaining performance from poet and comedian, Anny Knight.

All served with an abundance of tea and coffee it certainly made for a splendid way to spend an autumnal Sunday afternoon.

There’s a great variety of activities at the Women’s Social Group, and something for everyone. The setting is informal and it is about catching up for a chat with familiar faces or meeting new people. There is always a warm welcome whether you’re a returning regular or a first timer, and a real sense of community amongst the group and plenty of chatter.

Why not pop along to the next meeting? It’s free to attend and tea and coffee is provided. The group meets on the fourth Sunday of each month from 1pm at The Chelsea Theatre, 7 World’s End Place, Kings Road, SW10 0DR (nearest station is Sloane Square). Or for more information:

Fiona.Addison@ageukcamden.org.uk / 07435 356951

Opening Doors London (ODL) – www.openingdoorslondon.org.uk

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Out and About with the Men’s Walking Group Our very own Tony from Q dusted off his walking shoes, and caught up with Peter from the ODL Men's Walking Group.

How did you first become involved in the walking group?

I attended one of Geoff's walks for Opening Doors several years ago and was greatly impressed by his delivery and the obvious interest and enjoyment which it created.

As a result, I decided to apply to train to be a guide in the City of London. The course is typically three times oversubscribed and difficult to get onto. Geoff and his partner Alan were a great help in coaching me for the interview. Then, once I qualified in 2012, I started to assist Geoff with the walks and we took turns to lead one every month.

What's your secret for getting ‘access all areas’ to buildings and venues?

The secret is boldness and asking people.

Usually folks are only too willing to invite us in and show us around. It does take quite a bit of organising though. Sometimes lots of emails, personal visits and a certain amount of red tape.

Occasionally I manage an invitation on the spur of the moment, when I do my final 'dress rehearsal'. I've only had two serious refusals so far. The Clergy of St Paul's cathedral at Amen Corner decided that we could not visit their street and the Reception Manager of Innovation gave me a blank refusal.

What motivates you?

I love to share my enthusiasm with others and it’s electrifying when you see how much they appreciate this experience. This group is unique in that we share a history of our own; being with others adds a depth and richness to our afternoons. For some it's clearly a highlight of their month and it's great to have facilitated this and to see everyone having fun together.

I really believe in what Opening Doors is seeking to achieve and love playing a small part in its overall success. Being a volunteer is the perfect way to support this.

Useful links:

Gay Sunday Walking Group www.gswg.org.uk Out and About www.outandabout-­‐london.org

Have you ever had anything unusual happen on a walk, which has brought a smile to your (and the walkers) face?

Cramming lots of people into small spaces and seeing the surprised look on other peoples' faces.

I especially liked the charming young man in Hatton Garden who I'd arranged to display an enormous diamond to our astonished group. You couldn't make out which was most desired. n

Thank you to Peter. The Men's walk is on the second Tuesday of the month, details are in the monthly listings.

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Thank you Nick Peter Cattanach, ODL Service Manager writes that Nick Maxwell moved on from Opening Doors London in September 2014 to new challenges. This is a big loss to the service and especially for many members who came to see him as a friend and someone who was there for them. We all wish him well.

© Age UK Camden

Nick is a man with great skills and experience in leading groups and at the same time ensuring that individuals in groups felt valued and respected. He also has a detailed and thorough understanding of the history of gay men and the current issues for older LGBT people who have lived through times when homosexuality was a crime or seen as some sort of mental illness. Earlier in the summer 2014 Nick wrote a great briefing paper on this subject for NHS staff.

It was nearly seven years ago in January 2008 that Nick joined Opening Doors London. He brought his LGBT life and work experiences, his skills as a nurse and counsellor to the project.

I came on board at the start of the project in January 2008. I had been involved beforehand with the Gay Men's Group -­‐ older gay men were attending Henderson Court Resource Centre and it set up an older gay men's group.

(Guardian December 2011).

If you were to observe Nick in the office at Tavis house you would hear him talking on the phone with gay men who were wondering what ODL might have to offer, or talking with members who had issues and wanted Nick’s support and advice.

Nick’s message for older LGBT people was, ‘we are here to listen and to ask them what they want.’

You would also hear him busy organising events and community safety meetings, a new support group in another London Borough and of course each year, ODL’s participation in the parade for London Pride! Along with other staff and volunteers he worked on the monthly listing. Nick also spent much time out and about, networking and developing services.

And from time to time you would hear him say with a grin, about some biscuits left over from a previous evening’s event, ‘does anyone want a gay biscuit?’

Thank you Nick and we wish you all the best. n

Opening Doors London (ODL) – www.openingdoorslondon.org.uk

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Women’s Film Night – Popcorn, Laughter and Tears It has been an absolute delight to be involved with the Women's ODL film night over the last three years.

I originally joined ODL to become a befriender and found myself helping out at the film night as an interim activity. However, the evenings were so enjoyable that I could not give them up!

We have popcorn-­‐munched our way through crazy Alien Still from ‘Desert Hearts’ film Lesbians to wily Heavenly Creatures to charming Desert Hearts; we have been moved to tears and roused to laughter, with post film discussions broaching the political, the social, the personal and very occasionally the ridiculous eg. what is the point of keeping alive ones ex-­‐vampire-­‐lesbian-­‐lover for eternity?

Without a doubt, the women have been the biggest draw and inspiration; committed, lively and engaged and asking the same questions of Google as every generation: Is Hilary Clinton gay? Sharon Gless Lesbian? I will surely miss them.

I’ll be back… but in the meantime long may film night continue. n Mel Johnson

Ealing Mixed Group A friendly gathering welcomed me to the mixed group on a wet Wednesday afternoon. People arrived and were greeted by Derek who made tea for everyone, then we all sat down to introduce ourselves and have a chat – as is always the case at these meetings. Newcomers are made to feel particularly welcome by this small group. After ten minutes, we took our seats to watch a film after which we analysed the plot and the acting Friendly members having fun in Ealing in some detail. Regulars

told me that the group is more than just an opportunity to sit down with a cup of tea and meet like-­‐minded people over an afternoon film. One member told me that it has given him a new venue to socialise after losing his partner a couple of years ago and that it is a lifeline where he feels comfortable and relaxed. Altogether, a very welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Derek is the perfect host. Next time you’re nearby do drop in. The group meets on the third Wednesday of each month from 2.30pm at The Lido Centre, 63 Mattock Lane, W13 9LA (nearest station West Ealing). n Chris E

Mile End Drop-­‐in Group

I popped in on the Mile End Drop-­‐in Group recently and was impressed by the cohesiveness of the group and how well they all seemed to get on with each other. There is a friendly atmosphere and you would be made very welcome: my only negative comment would be that, at least on the occasion when I turned up, it was an all-­‐male gathering apart from the facilitator, Nic Humberstone, who does her best to keep them all in order.

Unlike the report elsewhere in this issue on the coffee-­‐mornings at Tavis House, the conversation was relaxed and chatty, so you needn’t feel you might not be able to keep up. The meeting-­‐room is big enough to house quite a few more, and there are comfortable chairs to sit on, while it’s easy to get to, being only a couple of minutes’ walk from Stepney Green station (turn right out of the station) or the bus-­‐stop nearby. n Mike H

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A Day in the Life of the ODL Office Q Editorial group member Chris Ejsmond spent time in the ODL office chatting with staff to find out what they do.

ODL is a project within Age UK Camden that is managed by Stacey, whose remit encompasses leading on strategic direction and delivery, including negotiating and securing funding from charitable trusts, the National Lottery, individual donations and legacies. She is supported by Fundraising Manager Tom and, alongside them, a small group of mostly part-­‐ time staff who manage the charity’s client base of around one thousand members.

Ambassadors have attended housing and social care conferences, sat on Social Care Institute of Excellence and Care Quality Commission panels and connected with policy makers, researchers and the media to improve services for older LGBT consumers. Some attended an international LGBT conference funded by Goldman Sachs while others have been engaging with the Parliamentary Outreach Team learning how to influence government policy.

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All of us as members of ODL are ambassadors and if we are talking with people who don’t know the project there is an opportunity to promote ODL.

Women’s Development Coordinator Kate ensures that an inclusive and broad programme of activities are organised for ODL service users, while Paul and Catherine provide the focus for befriending isolated ODL members. Elsewhere, Fiona oversees the Signposting and Information Volunteer Scheme which provides members with information on a range of issues from housing and benefits to health and social care services.

Derek oversees and supports the ODL Ambassadors network, an invaluable resource comprising members who are highly active in their support of ODL and assist the organisation in achieving its aims. Recently ODL

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Geoff Boyd, ODL Ambassador

There are currently 27 Ambassadors and ODL is recruiting more. If you feel you have relevant interests and skills, want to connect with issues and seek to change things for the better for older LGBT people this is the platform to make those connections. If this sounds like you, please do get in touch with Derek to discuss becoming an Ambassador. n

The problems attached to ageing as LGBT folk seem, with my own advancing years, as critical today as those of mere acceptance a generation ago. When I retired from full-­‐time paid employment for the third time, nearly ten years ago, I discovered that I could moan and groan about the state of the world in general and local public services in particular; or I could throw myself into doing some little things to try to help make both better. I made my choice. I became an Ambassador for Opening Doors London.

Derek.Freeman@ageukcamden.org.uk 020 7239 0400.

ODL Member stats: Gender Identity

Roger, ODL Ambassador

Opening Doors London (ODL) – www.openingdoorslondon.org.uk

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Befriending and Volunteering at ODL We make a difference to each other’s lives

Opening Doors London runs a successful befriending programme which matches members to a befriender. Here befriender Bébhinn and her friend and ODL member, Blue Hat, talk about their relationship.

Bébhinn: A leaflet from Age UK Camden came through my door with a pride flag emblazoned across the top. I was directed to ODL and learned about their volunteer befriending service. After finishing the training I was put in touch with Blue Hat (my friend’s pen name – she loves anything blue) and we have been friends for eighteen months.

Since we met, Blue Hat and I have became genuine friends. There was a mutually shy beginning, but we’ve been very lucky to discover we have things in common. We meet up about twice a month, sometimes at her flat , or other times when we'll go out.

Blue Hat: I was shy when I first met my Befriender (BF), but now I really enjoy BF ‘meet ups’ and going out together to museums, theatres and films. All these events have been captioned by Stagetext, which is necessary because I live with hearing loss. I was especially pleased on one book outing when my BF took photos of a Booker Prize winner as she signed all my books.

Bébhinn: Older LGBT people are more likely to be isolated than their straight peers. What then happens when older LGBT people live in sheltered housing or care homes? ODL’s research says that some go back in the closet.

That said, I have met some of the most positive, happy people I know through ODL.

Blue Hat: My BF is right about so many LGBT people being unable to be themselves in sheltered housing and other homes – often going back in the closet. Because I have so little in common with my neighbours, I do not feel able to ask a neighbour a favour or even to chat.

Bébhinn: My generation has inherited an easier world to live in thanks to our LGBT elders, and I think that working as a volunteer befriender is the very least I can do. Luckily for me, I enjoy our time hugely. I feel extremely privileged to know her, to laugh together and to enjoy this city with her.

Blue Hat: Being in a different age group means that my BF and I learn from each other when we share experiences. Uncannily enough we often dress the same when going out -­‐ a good match I'd say but no doubt fashion has finally caught up with the gays’ dress of my generation -­‐ egalitarian style. n

To find out more about Befriending, telephone 020 7239 0400 or contact odl.befriending@ageukcamden.org.uk

10 ODL Quarterly – Winter 2014/15

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Community and commitment For Opening Doors London, like any charity, the good work that’s done by volunteers is invaluable. As part of this edition of Q, we spoke to two volunteers, Natalie Lewendon and John McKain, about their experiences, their feelings about the charity and their motivations to continue supporting Opening Doors London.

Natalie is a fairly recent recruit and has only just begun volunteering with ODL, having put in two shifts at the monthly supper club at Positive East, while John has been volunteering for two and half years including helping out with the Men's Speakers Night, the Men's Film night and Coffee & Cakes mornings, to name just a few.

Despite this, their reasons for getting involved are similar. For Natalie, it’s a question of finding her community: “I'm not from London. It can be difficult to feel rooted in a city this big… Of course, people of all ages and levels of learning and expertise live and work in London, and that's what makes it so interesting, but it can be hard to connect.”

Happily her work at ODL has given her a sense of belonging: “I've never felt so involved as I have since I've been hanging around ODL events. Every time I have cause to talk to anyone from ODL or Age UK Camden, it's all 'have you spoken to so-­‐and-­‐so?’ -­‐ and I'm not even a service user. I like feeling part of something so much.”

For John, his commitment is, in part, homage to past gay generations and the work they did in furthering equal rights: “I wanted to find a way to thank the older LGBT community for giving me the gay lifestyle I have now. I have been out for over 20 years and still remember what it was like back then to come out…However, I was very lucky as it was a whole lot harder for the gay men 40 years or more ago. If it wasn't for the men and women of that generation, fighting for our rights and not giving up, my life would be very different. So my way of thanking them is to volunteer with ODL.”

John with his grandmother.

Furthermore, the volunteering is hugely rewarding for John: “I also get SO much back from giving up a little of my time to be there for our members. I have made a lot of new friends and also met a lot of great guys. I am lucky and thankful for being able to Volunteer for Opening Door London and look forward to continue for some time to come. God Permitting.” n

ODL Member stats: Sexual Orientation

Opening Doors London (ODL) – www.openingdoorslondon.org.uk 11

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Putting the fun into Fundraising

ODL’s Tom and partner, Henri literally dragging the money out of supporters

Tom Blackie explains how we can all support Opening Doors London…and assist people who want to do the same!

So how can you help? Well, as a service user, we’d

love for you to As you’ll of course be aware, securing funding help us encourage for any charity is a primary objective and more people to get always challenging. Whether our volunteers’ involved. If you’ve time, donations or being sponsored for an got a friend who impressive activity, Opening Doors London relies on the kindness of strangers, and friends, has an extraordinary skill, to be able to continue to deliver its valuable services and expand to meet new and emerging plays sport or practices an needs facing older LGBT people in the capital.

unusual hobby, why not ask if That said, we’ve recently seen some really they’d potentially agree to be sponsored and exciting work take place. A few weeks back, a raise funds for ODL? If you have a contact couple of ambassadors went to the Lloyds Bank within a company, why not point them in our LGBT staff group to talk to them about direction? If you’d like personally to do opportunities as they are keen to work with and something more with Opening Doors London, support ODL. Other new supporters like PwC’s let us know. Email me with any ideas or LGBT staff group, GLEE -­‐ Gays, Lesbians and suggestions – I’d love to hear from you! PS Everyone Else, recently fundraised through ten I’m planning another fundraising challenge of their members participating in a sponsored with my husband in the New Year as our alter fitness challenge. We also have individual, egos ‘Goldie’ and ‘Sylvie’ but more about that personal supporters who give very generously in the next issue! n

through direct debits, one off payments and tom.blackie@ageukcamden.org.uk special events, and we value them all hugely.

To donate to Opening Doors London please visit: http://openingdoorslondon.org.uk

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Annie Southerst and I have teamed up to target the large financial and legal firms many of whom operate globally and have well-­‐established LGBT staff networks. We attend events organised by their LGBT staff network. It’s a great opportunity to explain the issues facing LGBT people as they get older and to promote ODL.

In our presentations Annie and I use the ODL video and run through the services offered by ODL and the profile of its membership and of course we encourage questions, comments and discussion. Then we ask the LGBT staff networks to nominate ODL as their firm’s charity of the year and we invite firms to hold events as fundraisers for ODL to demonstrate their support.

Geoff Boyd, ODL Ambassador

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Gay’s The Word Bookshop: Still Thriving After 35 Years If you’ve seen the film Pride, which is set in 1984 during the miners’ strike, you’ll recall scenes recreating the Lesbian and Gay Support the Miners group meetings at Gay’s the Word bookshop. Q talked to manager, Jim MacSweeney, who has worked at GTW since 1989.

Anyone interested in its origins should read Ernest Hole’s intriguing article, The Birth of Gay’s the Word, in Polari Magazine. Hole recounts how the name Gay’s the Word was lifted from an Ivor Novello show.

Invite to 35th Birthday Party

GTW float that led the Pride march in 1979

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It was with tremendous excitement that I discovered Gay's the Word bookshop in the early 1990s. Simply stepping through the door felt like an act of self-­‐affirmation. -­‐ Sarah Waters GTW is celebrating its 35th birthday this year, making it an excellent chance to take a new look at what has become an iconic institution, not the least because it has moved so successfully into the present while remaining true to its founding principles.

An inclusive and welcoming space Jim pointed out that what often used to pass as a gay bookshop was in reality a sex shop, whereas GTW was truly a bookshop. The staff, a mix of gay men and lesbians, were determined it would not feel like an overwhelmingly male space. As Jim said, ‘That early commitment to putting lesbian and gay books and publications in one space was ahead of its time.’ The shop continues to house many meetings and activities, from book launches to regular meetings, like the Lesbian Discussion Group which has been going since the early 80s.

1984 raid The shop has weathered some serious storms, the most outrageous when Customs and Excise officers raided the shop in 1984, maintaining seized books were obscene. Not surprisingly there was a huge outcry, and ultimately the case was dropped. Colin Clew’s fascinating article on this episode is worth a read.

Here at the end of 2014 GTW continues to remain relevant in a much-­‐changed world. If you happen to be at Tavis House, why not stroll around the corner to Marchmont Street. n

Jim and Armistead Maupin Gay’s the Word Bookshop: 66 Marchmont Street, London, WC1 1AB 0207 278 7654 http://freespace.virgin.net/gays.theword/ © All photos courtesy Gay’s the Word

Del LaGrace Volcano and Jackie Kay

Opening Doors London (ODL) – www.openingdoorslondon.org.uk 13

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Seminar Five: Trans Ageing

represent the views of older feminists but which was widely felt to express transphobia.

Kate Hancock from the ODL office attended this seminar in Manchester in September. It was one of an excellent series led by ECRC looking at different concerns in the older LGBT community

On a more personal note the conference was held in Manchester and whilst this is my home town, I left when I was 17 and so spent little of my adulthood there. So here I was in the centre of town, not visiting my family and later having a drink in Canal Street – being a grown up lesbian in a city I very sadly barely knew but loved so much. n

The aim of the seminar was to address gaps in our knowledge about particular issues affecting older trans people and ageing, and to think about how we can address those gaps. Many groups and organisations from around the world were represented and part of the joy of these conferences is having time to meet and spend time with other people involved in similar work and communities – time to be together as well as the inevitable necessity of constant activity.

Though there were many themes that emerged there was much discussion around confidentiality and privacy at the same time as keeping medical professionals informed.

We were very sadly again needing to address issues of prejudice towards trans people from within our own LGBT community as many of us had been deeply distressed by a recent interview on Woman’s Hour which claimed to

Your ODL Quarterly

Next issue of Q for Spring 2015: DOWN MEMORY LANE. Share with others your recollections from the past, whether personal or about activities or groups you were part of or send in a snappy anecdote.

Tell us about what it was like for you growing up gay or lesbian. Help us make Q9 a colourful patch work of LGBT reminiscences and history.

Space in Q is at a premium so keep contributions brief: anything from 50 -­‐250 words more or less. Think of it as a snapshot or postcard from the past -­‐ and yes, if you have a real photo to share, send it too!

Get in touch if you have queries. Copy deadline: Monday 9 February Send to odl.quarterly@ageukcamden.org.uk

This issue of ODL Q8 was put together by Adrian Johnson, Alison Read, Barbara, Chris Esjmond, Fiona McGibbon, Jamie Reece, Mike Harth, Sue O’Sullivan and Tony Smith.

© All articles, cartoons and photographs are copyright of the author, artist and photographer. The views and opinions expressed in ODL Q Quarterly are those of the individual contributors and are not those of the editorial group, Opening Doors London or AgeUK Camden.

14 ODL Quarterly – Winter 2014/15

Pets’ Corner – Meet Coco Coco has lived with me for 19 years and she is nearly 20.

She sleeps with me every night and has got me through a PhD, relationship breakups and gives me joy. Ruined my new expensive chair, snores in the night and cuddles me when I don't feel well. She slept in the laptop and lost an entire chapter. She talks a lot.

She came from a rescue place with her brother; they said they should be kept together and although she hated him sentiment ruled. He was lovely and she hated him. When he got run over I thought she would show sorrow but she was delighted. It has been us two for many years. She was diagnosed with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) years ago and she's thin but I make the most of her wonderful and awful ways. n Nic Humberstone

Tony’s Spicy Festive Biscuits

How to make them:

• •

• • • • • • •

Nic and Coco

Recently Tony Smith brought some delicious biscuits to our meeting. As we munched away we decided to have a holiday recipe in this issue.

Rolling pins out!

butter or butter Sieve the flour and spice in a bowl substitute 200g Heat the butter or butter substitute sugar 150g and sugar gently until the sugar has plain flour 250g dissolved. cinnamon 2 tbsp Pour into the flour/spice and mix in mixed spice 1 tbsp Rest dough overnight in a cool place or fridge Set oven at gas mark 4, 180C, 350F Lightly grease two baking trays Lightly flour a clean surface, roll dough out, cut into shapes, place on baking trays Bake for 10 -­‐ 15 minutes at top of oven being careful not to let them get too brown as this spoils the flavour Biscuits are ready when still slightly soft. Cool and then place on wire rack

Opening Doors London contact details

Opening Doors London (ODL), Age UK Camden Tavis House, 1 – 6 Tavistock Square London, WC1H 9NA Main Switchboard: 020 7239 0400

Development Coordinator for Men T: 020 7239 0446 E: odl.men@ageukcamden.org.uk

Befriending Coordinators T: 020 7239 0400 E: odl.befriending@ageukcamden.org.uk

Stacey Halls Project Manager LGBT Campaigns & Policy Officer E: stacey.halls@ageukcamden.org.uk Kate Hancock Development Coordinator for Women T: 020 7239 0447 E: odl.women@ageukcamden.org.uk

ODL Quarterly E: odl.quarterly@ageukcamden.org.uk

Opening Doors London (ODL) – www.openingdoorslondon.org.uk 15

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How Does Q Work?

Introducing Ourselves Q, Opening Doors London’s 16-­‐page quarterly journal is produced by a 100% voluntary group of ODL members and volunteers. Some of us have editing and writing experience, some have experience in layout or have writing contacts -­‐ and some don’t. But we’re all in it together.

Producing Articles Out of Thin Air We meet at Tavis House twice a month to brainstorm about content and themes and to work on our current issue. For instance, we decided to focus on ODL groups and projects for this issue. After that we identified possible writers from the Q team and identified others we would ask to contribute. This part of the process is sometimes the most difficult – rather like conjuring people and articles out of thin air!

Lively Discussions A vital part of the Q meetings are our lively discussions. It’s not all hard slog – we laugh a lot too. Nevertheless, we don’t all agree on everything and sometimes agree to disagree.

ODL members are diverse and not only in their sexual identity. It’s important that we explore fully the issues we’re covering.

Fine Tuning After commissioning or assigning the pieces, it’s amazing how soon the material starts arriving which then sets in motion all the milestones along the way: reading, editing, devising titles, finding illustrations and the final readying of everything. Finally,when it’s all fine tuned it’s sent off to Adrian, who designs each issue. At last it’s not too long until a copy is winging its way to you online or in the post! And the Q team breaths a sigh of relief! n

YOUR Q NEEDS YOU!

One of the hardest nuts for Q, and we’ve not cracked it yet, is how to get readers to communicate with us.

Our wish list: • We’d love to hear from you – write us letters.

Wouldn’t it be great to have a Q letters page! ‘You in Q’ perhaps?

• Tell us what you liked or were critical of in an issue.

• Send ideas for future articles and themes, reviews and reports – and photos, drawings or cartoons.

• Write something for the journal: o review a film or play o create quizzes, a cooking section, or poetry o Interview people who interest you • Last but not least, become part of the Q editorial team.

If you have editorial skills great, but if not, don’t worry.

Your spark of enthusiasm counts. We aim for a balance of LGBT people although currently we are all lesbians and gay men. Please contact us and arrange to come along to one of our working meetings to see if it’s your cup of tea.

• Write to us at: odl.quarterly@ageukcamden.org.uk. Or to Q Editorial team at AgeUK Camden, Tavis House, 1 – 6 Tavistock Square, London, WC1H 9NA.

2015 NEW Y EAR ’S RESOLUTIONS

ü I will send a letter or email to Q saying what I liked or didn’t like in this issue and how the mag could be improved. ü I will make suggestions to Q for future articles, reviews or anything else. ü I will offer to write something for Q. ü I will draw a cartoon for Q.