outnorthwest94 by The Lesbian & Gay Foundation

O YOUR HEROES REVEALED! NEWS•COMMENT •ANALYSIS•HEALTH•SPORT•LISTINGS HORM E O S HE

OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2009 ISSUE 94

PUBLISHED BY

THEATRE

THE LARAMIE

LEGACY

KEEPING MATTHEW SHEPARD’S MEMORY ALIVE

STEPHEN K AMOS

COMEDY HERO!

! A I P O T HOMO TS FESTIVAL R A R E E U Q S L’ OF LIVERPOO >> THE RETURN

Job opportunities at The Lesbian & Gay Foundation

BASED IN CENTRAL MANCHESTER

Our vision is of a fair and equal society in which all lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) people can achieve their full potential. Based in central Manchester, we serve over 40,000 LGB people across the North West region every year; consult widely with organisations nationally; and have an internationally successful website. As a result, we provide more direct services and resources to more LGB people than any other charity of our kind in the UK

Gay Men’s Community Engagement Manager

Specialising in sexual health. Salary £25,959 - £30,354 Plus 10% pension (37 hours per week, plus out of hours working.) This post provides an exciting opportunity to work directly with the gay and bisexual men’s community in Greater Manchester, delivering innovative and community based sexual health programmes of work. We’re looking for a dynamic, outgoing person who can continue and develop the groundbreaking sexual health initiatives of the LGF and further strengthen our links to the community, and the sector. Key aspects of the role include sexual health campaigns, training and outreach. This exciting role provides a real opportunity to make a difference to the work of the LGF, and to the lives of thousands of gay and bisexual men in Greater Manchester. Deadline: Interview:

12 noon, Tuesday 20th October 2009 Friday 30th October 2009

Please contact Karen Priestley on 0161 235 8035 or by email, info@lgf.org.uk to ask for an application pack. Alternatively please download from our website at www.lgf.org.uk This post is exempt under Section 7(2)(b)(ii) of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975.

08 EDITOR’S LETTER OCT-NOV 2009

The right to feel safe... hear your on Canal Street. We’re really keen to ive for posit AND tive experience, both nega ming upco an for ning plan a feature we are g to the talkin be We’ll est. orthw outn of issue ly, the police, bar owners, and most important t to Stree l Cana use community who regularly .org. @lgf ame grah il ema an us socialise. Drop uk.

RY TO THERE’S AN INTERESTING SYMMET THE ON EST. THW NOR OUT OF THIS ISSUE MURDER THE OF SARY IVER ANN ENTH ELEV KEN OF MATTHEW SHEPARD, WE’VE SPO E ZAN M ADA R CTO TO ACTOR AND DIRE IDE LDW WOR VE, VATI INNO ABOUT AN KEEP HIS STAGE PRODUCTION DESIGNED TO MEMORY ALIVE. ance here Of course, Matthew ’s story has a reson tragic story lly equa the with West h Nort the in on opposite of Michael Causer. Two young boys use of beca ered murd sides of the world, both . It years ten by rated sepe and their sexuality, made such have really we if der won you es mak ten years. positive steps forward over those last legally, d gnise reco been It’s fantastic we have er our partn y civill now can we that it’s amazing changed nces adva these have But . ones loved n we hear attitudes towards LGB&T people? Whe hatred and nce viole er, murd on a regular basis of they ve belie to hard it’s us, rds directed towa secure have. We have every right to feel safe,

arts bent This issue also has something of an ’s annual pool Liver of rage cove our (sorry!), with theme for The ia. otop Hom al, festiv arts r quee homophobia’ this year’s event is ‘Homotopia, not events stic fanta of e and there’s a whole rang 8. page on ing start re, featu check out our

and free from attack. th, you’ll If you turn to our letters page this mon writing to see we’ve had a number of people security and y us concerned about their safet

DON’T

and Finally, in the cold light of October t seem a migh Pride November, Manchester ly-wobbly, wibb to ks than but ory, distant mem still very it’s , lines dead azine mag ey y-wim time publish to ng much on our radar. We were hopi t in this even ’s year this for the fundraising total out Look it. to us beat lines dead issue, but time ber Octo 1st on Out Daily of issue ial spec for a it up in the detailing the amount. You can pick it out at our k chec or ter gay Village in Manches rg.uk .lgf.o www site web fabulous new

MISS!

EDITOR

LARAMIE 11

10 } REGULARS 08 THE AGENDA

An in-depth look at the issues affecting us over the next two months. This issue, we focus on Homotopia, Liverpools premier queer arts festival. We also speak to Angela Eagle, and highlight an innovative world-wide theatre production.

06 YOUR LETTERS

Two pages every month of your news, views, opinions, rants and raves. P16-17

Eleven years after the tragic murder of Matthew Shepard, a ground-breaking theatre production aims to keep his memory alive. Read all about the worldwide premiere of The Laramie Project 10 Years Later, The Legacy starting on p16.

07 OPINION

Paul Fairweather on reactions to announcing his status at this year’s Vigil.

46 LISTINGS

The most comprehensive guide to the LGBT north west.

OUR EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH COMEDY GENIUS STEPHEN K AMOS

Registered Charity No. 1070904

MISS!

IT’S ALL ABOUT US...

DON’T

}CONTENTS } FEATURES

20 STEPHEN K AMOS

We talk to one of our favourite comedians, Stephen K Amos about how important it is to be an out and in the public eye.

11 JOSH BOOTH

What’s it like being a young, out gay person in the UK today. Is homophobia a part of everyday life? Young gay man Josh Booth gives us his perspective.

} WELLBEING 24 GHT

George House Trust on why we all have to fight the stigma attached to HIV.

23 BREAST CANCER

Annie Emery on the importance of regularly checking your breasts.

28 OFF TO THE CLINIC?

A reader tells us his experiences of visiting a GUM clinic for the first time.

30 RISKY DRINKER?

Do you drink to get drunk? Do you think you might be having one too many? Take our simple quiz and check your rating...

} OUT & ABOUT 44 SPORT

The only LGBT magazine to feature a regular sports section, two pages of the latest NW queers sports.

34 FABULOUS!

Going out isn’t always about drinking until you fall down. Why not get involved with our fundraisers?

outnorthwest is published every two months by The Lesbian & Gay Foundation, Princess House, 105-107 Princess Street, MANCHESTER M1 6DD General Enquiries: 0161 235 8035 E-mail: grahame@lgf.org.uk

}EDITOR & LAYOUT Grahame Robertson }PRODUCTION Simon Pearson }NEWS EDITOR Joanne Dunning }DESIGN & LAYOUT Simon Pearson and Mark Eastwood }HEALTH TEAM EDITORS Nathan Perry and Peter Boyle }WEB EDITOR Marc Robinson }LISTINGS EDITOR Mark Eastwood }DISTRIBUTION Kate Hardy and Peter Boyle CONTRIBUTORS Paul Martin; Annie Emery; Andrew Gilliver; Kate Hardy; Paul Fairweather; GHT; Colin Armstead; Josh Booth; Albert Kennedy Trust; Marc Robinson; Paul Swan; Emma Peate; Sian Payne; Darren Knight; Rachel Barlow; Helen Burdett; Emma Peate; Simon Pearson; Joe Spencer. SPECIAL THANKS Gerard Gudgion; Tom Wright; Manbears; Rachel Brown; Stuart Rainsbury; Lindsay England; Lou Englefield; Trevor Burchick; The Orca Divers Stephen K. Amos; Adam Zane; Diane ScottThomas; Chris Manning; Johnny; Nathan; Valentino; Jackie Crozier; Darren Adams; Everyone at Manchester Pride; David Henry; Sarah Quinn; Glen Monks; and to all of our advertisers and supporters. ADVERTISING For information on advertising in outnorthwest, please contact us on 0161 235 8035. Or e-mail grahame@lgf.org.uk DISCLAIMER

Publication of the name or photo of any person in this magazine should not be taken as any indication of the sexual orientation or HIV status of that person. All views expressed in outnorthwest are not necessarily those of the Editor or The Lesbian & Gay Foundation. outnorthwest recognises all copyrights. Where possible, we have acknowledged the copyright holder. Contact us if we have failed to credit your copyright and we will happily correct any oversight.

OUTBOX

WRITE TO US: outnorthwest The Lesbian and Gay Foundation. 4th Floor Princess House, 105-107 Princess Street Manchester M1 6DD EMAIL: grahame@lgf.org.uk

} YOUR COMMENTS. YOUR OPINIONS. E-MAIL: grahame@lgf.org.uk

WHAT IS HAPPENING TO OUR GAY VILLAGE? “This has left me ashamed to live in this city I call home.” “I AM ALWAYS LOOKING OVER MY SHOULDER AND FEELING INTIMIDATED.” }As of late, and by that I mean the last few months since before Manchester Pride, I had noticed on the increase that Canal Street is getting more and more litterd with gangs of lads. Straight lads that are only down in the Gay Village for one reason, and that is to cause trouble. I am not the only person who has passed comments on this matter. I am a member of Fitlads dating website, and quite a few people have concerns with this matter. I do NOT go down onto Manchesters gay scene to receive verbal abuse: people shouting at me, “Oi faggot, oi bum boy do you take it up the arse, oi shit stabber have you got a light?” This is totally un-acceptable. I am also offered ‘sniff’. By sniff I can only assume they mean Cocaine? Ketamine? It isn’t just once a night either or by just one person. Every time I am down Canal Street I get asked on average about 5 times. Yes the doorstaff ask them to move on, but that is all. Five minutes after they are back, and the doorstaff see it as they have done their job by asking them to move on, and that is the furthest it goes. The one thing that bothers me most is that the people that are most vulnerable are the younger crowd, the students that live for partying, and the people who do choose to take drugs. Now lets not twist things here, we all know drugs are very widespread on the gay scene, which I don’t have a problem with. But these are the people who are set upon by these gangs when they make a bad desicion to walk home alone. They are all over the place. I am all for intergration with straight people but it just seems more trouble than it is worth. I always

My partner and I had returned from a six day trip in Berlin and got dropped off by the coach on Sackville Street. There were two other friends with us so decided to go for a quick drink in The Rembrandt.

straight on the phone to the local constabulary but they didn’t seem bothered. It was as if their thoughts were “they’re paying customers so not to worry”.

There we were just the four of us in the entire pub and suddenly in come, what can only be described as eight thugs. I suddenly saw our nice drink turn to “let’s get the hell out of here”. One of the group came to our table and asked us for a game of pool, which we refused and the guy started getting nasty. So we decided to drink up and leave.

We were in Berlin for six days and witnessed not one example of homophobia or threatening behaviour, we even travelled for an hour on the night train in Berlin which was packed and didn’t notice one bit of trouble.

We felt physically threatened as these thugs were out for trouble and the bar staff were happy enough to serve them and gave them pool cues to play pool. If I were them I’d be

Police presence is always low around the Village, and I used to agree with that because it wasn’t an area that had many trouble problems. Yet four years down the line it is crawling with trouble makers. The one thing that worries me is are these people carrying knives/guns? Will it take for an unfortunate person to find out for the gay community take action? It seems that way. Thanks for listening to my concerns. Chris, via e-mail ONW: We’re very keen to hear other readers experiences - both negative AND positive. If you encounter any kind of threatening behaviour when you’re out and about, don’t tolerate it. Report it. Reporting of Hate Crime in the LGB&T community is still very low.

GANGS OF CANAL STREET } Recently some friends of mine created a Facebook group called “Gangs of Canal Street” aimed at tackling hate crime, drugs and making the Village a safe place to go. It arose out of some concerns from regular visitors, residents and a

Support the work of the LGF. Donate online today at www.lgf.org.uk

This is a fine example of the way the Village has gone and a reason why not to drink there. After all this is OUR Village and it just doesn’t feel safe anymore.

This has left me ashamed to be British and to live in this city I call home. Stuart, Manchester ONW: We’ve contacted The Rembrandt, and await their response. Meanwhile, it seems Stuart’s experience is not an isolated one...

used to go down to Canal Street as it was a safe and fun night out, yet now I am always looking over my shoulder and left feeling very intimidated.

Join the outnorthwest Facebook group today. 06

LETTER OF THE MONTH

number of people across the LGBT community. The purpose of the group is to draw people together and to start to cast out some of the horrible hate crimes in the Village, tackle the growing drug problem and to genuinely make it a safer place for the LGBT community. The group has in four days gained over 800 members, and is growing rapidly. There are some notable personalities from the Village businesses who are now supporting the drive, and Aleks/Chris (group owners) are hoping to promote this, and really change things for the better. It’s an admirable sentiment for sure! There are concerns at the growing hate crime in the area, ranging from people being attacked with eggs and fruit, to verbal and physical abuse and the unfortunate deaths of recent months. I know that people come from allover the UK and Europe to visit Canal Street and the Gay Village to celebrate such a wonderful place, but I’m concerned that it is being marred by such concerns as this. Naturally I am working with a number of partners in the area, and already have the support of Greater Manchester Police amongst other agencies. As a leading partner in the LGBT community, I would like to invite you to support this drive, as I believe that this is a great opportunity to bring the community together to tackle the issues. Dan Abbott ,

You can also follow us on Twitter (@outnorthwest)

theVIEW PAUL FAIRWEATHER OPINION WEB: www.lgf.org.uk

HIV is not my identity.

PAGE 14 FOR MORE ON THIS STORY

I don’t know how many of you went to this year’s Manchester Pride but for me the whole ten day event was the best ever. This year Pride had funded a whole series of political, cultural and social events whic h gave the event a real diversity and depth. There were debates on the future of LGBT right s in this country, a trans pool party and discu ssions on how to get our cultural institution to do more on LGBT history. The parade was bigg er than ever and the Chief Constable marched in it with hundreds of LGBT police office rs from all over the country. And to top it all we had the Human League. I think it’s important not to underestimate the importance even ts such as the Pride Parade have in changing attitu des and perceptions. They show a commun ity that is proud and confident, with many frien ds and supporters both marching with us and lining the streets to cheer. They show a com munity that can enjoy itself and can contribut e to the development of the city.

with a number of partners in the area, and already have the support of Greater Manchester Police amongst other agencies. As a leading partner in the LGBT community, I would like to invite you to support this drive, as I believe that this is a great opportunity to bring the community together to tackle the issues. Dan Abbott , Manchester

“I HAVE PRIDE ALL OVER MY FACE...” }I have Pride all over my face, and I loved every filthy, sleazy, joyful, hilarious, exhausting minute of it!

For me the Vigil on the Bank Holiday Monday is still at the heart of the whole event. This year it also became a much more personal journey for me. For the last few years I have spok en at the Vigil bringing a message of support to the Vigil from Manchester City Council. This year for the first time in public I also spoke abou t my own experiences of living with HIV. I spok e about how coming out as HIV positive is diffe rent from coming out as lesbian or gay. I said that being HIV positive is not my identity. It is not who I am. It is simply a medical condition with which I am living- and with which I am living well. I said that we can never put pressure on peop le to reveal their status as it is an incredibly individual and personal decision. I said that if and when we are able to do this I believed it was the most

Registered Charity No. 1070904

Until now I have been a Pride virgin - I was so excited - although I had up-until this point been slightly apprehensive about The Village. Growing up in Devon near Torquay where there isn’t a “scene” I was a little overwhelmed -by its size and its attitude. To witness a spectacle like the Manchester Pride Parade was phenomenal. I was completely shocked at the size, the volume and the sheer amount of people and organisations desperate to shout their praise for our community. Still the main event of the night was The Candle Light Vigil. Not only was it the most moving ceremony I have ever had the privilege to be part of but it was also an uncompromisingly perfect ending to a weekend of joyful silliness. It grounded and solidified the purpose of all Pride events. It made clear what we as an international community of people have achieved and what we still need to fight for. It reminded me that despite being spat on in streets as a child and bullied from Primary School up to University, that despite all these things I am still here and I am still human. To all the critics who can no longer see the relevance of Pride I say stand in Sacksville Gardens with a fucking candle in the air and try to question Pride then. Pride is a Protest, just a bloody fun one! Jordan McDowell, Manchester

powerful weapon we have to challenge the stigma, stereotyping and simple nons ense that still exist out there in the world. I also spoke about the stigma that still exists with in the gay community. About the rejection, igno rance and even hostility that HIV positive gay men can experience from within our own com munities. I said we cannot afford to ignore or deny the existence of such stigma within our own communities. I believe this to be true and that it needs to change. We all have a role to play in educating each other, in challenging each other and in supporting each other and in particular supporting gay men living with HIV. Since speaking at the Vigil I have recei ved many emails and texts from people who agree I have had people I know tell me they are also HIV positive. I have had complete stran gers tell me they are HIV positive. I have had people tell me I am hero and an inspiration to them. I have had wonderful messages of supp ort from local residents in Harpurhey (the ward in North Manchester where I am a local coun cillor). I want to thank all the people who have sent me messages. It has made a huge diffe rence to me. It has also made it clearer to me how much support for positive people there is out there and that one of the most damaging things that the stigma does is to exaggerate the fear in our own minds which tells us not to talk about our status. But above all I want to get on with my life. A life in which, for me, being HIV posit ive is really not a very big issue at all.

LOOKING FOR ADVICE?

Whether you’re looking for relationship advice, you’re concerned about your sexual health, you want to know the opening times for Essential, or you want to get involved with your community, give the LGF Helpline a call on 0845 3 30 30 30. Staffed from 7pm - 10pm every night! www.lgf.org.uk

AGENDA HOMOTOPIA! CONTACT US: outnorthwest The Lesbian and Gay Foundation. 4th Floor Princess House, 105-107 Princess Street Manchester M1 6DD EMAIL: joanne.dunning@lgf.org.uk

NEWS

} IN DEPTH NEWS, COMMENT AND ANALYSIS. E-MAIL STORIES & COMMENTS: joanne.dunning@lgf.org.uk HOMOTOPIA, NOT HOMOPHOBIA

NOVEMB

0429

LAVENDER GIRLS

One of the highlights of the queer year here in the North West, Liverpool based arts festival Homotopia returns in November, with emphasis on the girls, and tackling homophobia.

This year the Homotopia festival offers you 3 jam packed weeks of the very highest quality LGBT culture including; an international art opening, a theatrical premiere, a Booker prize-winner (possibly), some very funny women and exclusive screenings. Festival Director, Gary Everett describing this year’s festival said: “Homotopia has developed a strong social justice strand this year and we have taken the fight against homophobia abroad with our youth exchange to Poland. But November is a celebration of our community’s talents that everyone can appreciate and enjoy.” Starting as it means to go on the festival opens with an international art launch of American artist Laurie Lipton’s latest work ‘Extraordinary Drawings’. (Contemporary Urban Centre until 29th 08

SARAH WATERS

Nov). Lipton, originally from New York, has been based in London since 1986. Her provocative, topical images are intensely detailed and rendered in layers of charcoal and graphite echoing the work of Bosch, Memling and Goya. This year Lipton has exhibited at the Basel and Pulse (New York) contemporary art fairs as well as the Saatchi Gallery London and galleries in California, Ohio and Dusseldorf. Also creating festival headlines is the appearance of Booker shortlisted and possible winner (announcement 6th October) Sarah Waters in conversation (FACT Fri 6th Nov 7.30pm). With television adaptations of her novels Tipping The Velvet, Fingersmith and Affinity, Waters work has introduced lesbian characters to a huge audience. For Homotopia she will discuss her work with publisher and author Helen Sandler against a backdrop of clips from the adaptations.

Support the work of the LGF. Donate online today at www.lgf.org.uk

Homotopia celebrates another festival first in its co-commission and world premiere of Jiggery Pokery a funny and moving new play about the life and lonely death of Charles Hawtrey (Unity Theatre Weds 11th – Sat 14th Nov 8pm). Known to millions through his Carry On appearances Hawtrey was a popular female impersonator in variety and music halls before his film career. But his overt sexuality proved controversial in a conservative age and in this innovative production actress Mandy Lawrence will portray Hawtrey in all his dark and drunken glory. Social justice has become a theme of Homotopia’s work and there will be a screening of a documentary showing this year’s groundbreaking work through Project Triangle (Unity Theatre Weds 4th Nov 6.45pm). This Homotopia project brought partners together across the city to empower young LGBT people and challenge homophobia. This film shows some of those

ANGELA EAGLE

LARAMIE: THE LEGACY p16

p10

We ask Labour MP ANGELA EAGLE about her thoughts on what we should all be doing to continue the fight for equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people.

ADAM ZANE tells us about The Laramie Project, 10 Years On and how a groundbreaking production is keeping Matthew Shepard’s memory alive.

“Homotopia has developed a strong social justice strand this year and we have taken the fight against homophobia abroad with our youth exchange to Poland.” GARY EVERETT, FESTIVAL DIRECTOR

MEMORIES OF YANKEL young people visiting Aushwitz, learning about the holocaust and meeting gay youths in Warsaw all with representatives of Merseyside Police. Caretakers a gripping and powerful new play by Billy Cowan also tackles prejudice as it looks at the sensitive issues around anti gay bullying in schools (Unity Theatre Thurs 5th & Fri 6th Nov 8pm).

appearances at reading groups at community libraries the authors of ‘When We Were Bad’ and ‘Sleep With Me’ will be at FACT on Saturday 7th November 4.30pm. No Homotopia would be complete without lesbians proving they can laugh at themselves so Clare Summerskill returns to Liverpool in her new show ‘In No Particular Order!’ (Unity Theatre Sat 7th Nov 8pm). Clare always sells out and this year will be no exception.

Alongside Laurie Lipton’s work at CUC Homotopia will also be showcasing the work of digital French artist Chris Von Steiner (4th – 29th November). His work combines the pop icons of his youth with bold colours,elements from movies, music, books and television. He draws on dreams and desires to create digital nightmares. He has participated in group shows alongside artists such as Banksy, Tracey Emin, Blek le Rat and Sam Taylor Wood.

So for anyone missing the first funny woman Lavender Girls will more than make up for it. (Unity Theatre Weds 11th Nov 9.45pm) Rosie Wilby, once described as “an amiable, Kylie-sized, pocket venus who packs a punch” brings her hilarious brand of weirdness back, alongside locals Jane Townend (Nivea Funny Women finalist) and Emma Bowley who delighted audiences last year.

To complement Sarah Waters the festival is working with Liverpool Libraries to bring popular award winning authors Charlotte Mendelson and Joanna Briscoe to meet their readers. Following

Further exclusive screenings all shot by Re:Dock will include; Memories of Yankel (Unity Theatre Weds 4th Nov 6pm) – a short film made in 2007 when Liverpool artist Yankel Feather was

interviewed for the Our Story history project. Sadly Yankel died in April this year but this extraordinary artist and brave, outspoken man is not forgotten. The Invisible Death of Michael (venue tbc) – a short film looking at the under reporting of the death of Michael Causer and what this says about societal attitudes to homophobic hate crimes. Includes interviews with Peter Tatchell and Paul Burston. Vogue Ball 2008 (Unity Theatre Fri 13th Nov 9.45pm) – a film of the night everyone still talks about. An opportunity to relive the costumes, the make-up, the glamour and spot yourself amongst the 500! And then there’s the Striptease! Spanish dancer and performance artist Pere Faura performs a video/lecture for the audience gaze and the sexual gaze exploring striptease as performance (Bluecoat Chambers Sat 14th Nov 8pm).

For more information on Homotopia, venues and ticket sales, visit www. homotopia.net www.lgf.org.uk

AGENDA OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2009

NEWS

“In the next ten years, the gay rights movement is going to have to work hard and continue to campaign to ensure that the rights that have been established by law are made a reality.” ANGELA EAGLE, MP What’s next for LGB equality? Just because we have made advances in LGB rights over the last decade, it doesn’t mean that we can’t loose ground. I am proud of the achievements we have made over the last 12 years but there’s still work to do. In the next ten years, the Gay Rights Movement is going to have to work hard and continue to campaign to ensure that the rights that have been established by law are made a reality. I think people have banked a lot of the progress that has been made for LGB people but it’s important not to be complacent, Progress has been made but we have more to do. We have to make sure that the rights we have in law are a reality for people in the LGBT community. We have to change things at the coalface.

POLITICS: INTERVIEW

ANGELA EAGLE In the first of a new series of interviews with LGB figures from across the political spectrum we ask Labour MP ANGELA EAGLE about her thoughts on what we should all be doing to continue the fight for equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people.

As one of the people at the forefront of the ongoing changes in legislation over the last decade Wallasey MP Angela Eagle is Britain’s first – and so far only – out lesbian MP. Angela was elected 17 years ago and has been in Government since 1997. She was promoted by Gordon Brown to a superior ministerial position at the treasury and is currently Minister of State for Pensions and the Ageing Society in the Department for Work and Pensions. Angela Eagle has been an extremely active and successful campaigner for the gay rights movement, helping to push through several pieces of significant legislation. In 2007 she was given the title of Politician of the Year by Stonewall. She was ranked in the top 50 on The Independent’s Pink List of the 101 most 10

influential gay men and women in Britain 2009. Last year she became the first female MP to tie the knot in a civil partnership when she wed Maria Exall her partner of 18 years. How difficult was it for you to come out as a lesbian in government and what was the reaction? It was a perfectly natural thing for me to do. I think everyone has their own approach and of course it depends on the support you get from your family, friends and colleagues. I had overwhelming support from people like the Prime Minister (then Tony Blair). I was very pleased to have overwhelming support from my constituency in Wallasey too. Before I came out there was only one woman who had come out, Maureen Colquhoun, who had a terrible experience in the 1970’s, infact she advised me not to do it, but I had to make my own decision and obviously things have changed since the 70’s.

FULL INTERVIEW

As we will soon be facing a general election what message would you like to send out to the LGB & T community? It’s important to realise that this countries main opposition party is still largely against full equality for LGB & T people, whether that is voting against the Good s & Services Bill or the Equality Bill many Conservative MP’s have not supported changes in legislation to provide full equality for LGBT’s. I really would welcome the opportunity to look at their actions and not just their words but at the moment I think they have a lot to do apart from just the ongoing Public Relations exercise. I would urge people to vote Labour and to look at what politics can achieve, we have to keep campaigning for everyone. We must not take our recent gains for granted. If you hadn’t gone into politics what would you like to have done as a career? I would love to have been a Film Director, something creative. There are so many people I admire but I love Luis Buñuel, the Spanish Director but I don’t get chance to go to the cinema as often as I would like. Angela Eagle MP Website www.angelaeaglemp.co.uk/ Voting record on key issues www.theyworkforyou.com/mp/angela_eagle/ Wallasey

Our interview with Angela Eagle has been edited for publication in outnorthwest. If you’d like to read the full interview with Angela, visit the LGF website: www.lgf.org.uk

Support the work of the LGF. Donate online today at www.lgf.org.uk

AGENDA OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2009

NEWS

GIRLS - ON YER BIKES!

MONTHLY CYCLE There are all sorts of reasons for giving cycling a go; personal health and fitness, saving money on transport and travel, caring for the environment or simply for pleasure. Did you know... cycling regularly will improve your fitness and can help you live a long and healthy life; riding a bike can help you maintain a healthy weight; and that three quarters of all personal journeys are less than 5 miles long - that’s half an hour on a bike. Cycling can not only benefit your health but also the health of your community, reducing noise and air pollution as well as traffic congestion. The LGF are piloting a new cycling scheme for lesbian and bisexual women in association with the Cyclist’s Touring Club (CTC) and Manchester City Council. This exciting project will begin with a taster session on Saturday 24th October from 11am-1pm. Contact Rachel (see below) for details of location. The session will be fun and a great chance to try something new. It will be open to people of all abilities, even if you have never cycled before! If you fancy giving it a go or want to know more contact Rachel Barlow at the LGF on 0161 235 8019 or email her on rachel. barlow@lgf.org.uk including your name and contact details.

TRANS

NEW TRANS INITIATIVE IS LAUNCHED

Saturday, November 7th marks the launch of TREC - a new Trans Resource and Empowerment Centre for all trans and gender variant people in the North West. TREC has been set up by members of the trans community for the benefit of the community. We aim to provide a much-needed space for trans people, with range of activities centring around six theme areas: safety, creativity, community and culture, policy and law, body and health and networking. TREC will take place one weekend per month in Manchester. For more information or to register your interest, contact the TREC organisers at board@transcentre.org.uk

JOSH BOOTH GUEST COLUMNIST

Young & gay in the UK JOSH IS AN 18 YEAR OLD GAY MAN. WE ASKED HIM TO WRITE FOR US ABOUT WHAT IT’S LIKE TO BE A YOUNG GAY PERSON IN THE UK TODAY. You may think the world’s attitude to gay life has come a long way until you hear of cases like what happened to Michael Causer. When I heard on the news that he had died from the attack by two men because of his sexual orientation I was truly shocked. He died after undergoing brain surgery for serious head injuries after being attacked with a hard back book to the head. Michael’s death gave the country a wake up call that homophobia is still a big problem even though times have changed and it’s not such a taboo anymore. There are still some individuals who are homophobic and it needs to stop. I just can’t see why they feel the need to say nasty comments and attack people for being gay, I mean do we go around being nasty to people because they are straight? They don’t need to understand our lifestyle but just accept that not everyone is straight. Even though one of Michael’s attackers is now behind bars, it can’t give Michael’s family back what they took from them. A hate crime survey carried out last year revealed that one in five gay people have been the victims of homophobic attacks. People reported being beaten, persistently harassed and insults and sadly some homophobic attacks such as Michael’s ends in tragedy. Hearing Michael’s story made me scared to walk past gangs - as most people can tell I am gay as soon as they see me - in case they would beat me up or shout abuse at me. I make sure now that I don’t walk around on my own. I lock my doors as soon as I get in my car at night. I hope Michael’s legacy will be to remind us all that homophobia is still very prominent even in today’s society and it needs to stop. I’ve been talking to some of my gay friends about the attack on Michael Causer and shockingly some of them had never heard of the case at all and when I told them, they were truly shocked at the brutality of it. After that, I asked them their opinions of homophobia

“I think schools need to have a place where LGBT pupils can go and be themselves...” and they all said the same thing. They all think that Homophobia is just people’s ignorance to something they don’t understand and because they don’t understand homosexuality they see fit to shout abuse and call us names in the street. Most of the people I asked said they don’t experience homophobia anymore as they have gotten older as in workplaces everyone gets on and there isn’t the school bully or little gangs which brings me onto the way schools deal with homophobia. From when I was at school it seems they brushed any complaints of homophobia under the carpet and didn’t seem to deal with it properly as they did with other complaints of bullying. I think schools need to have a place where LGBT pupils can go and be themselves and discuss issues of homophobia and bullying in their school, it would also be a safe place they can go and socialise but some people would see that as them being kept away from the straight pupils. I would have loved a place like that where I could have gone to when I was at school. Schools need to send the message out to their pupils that being gay is okay and it isn’t a bad thing at all. They should have counsellors in place where young LGBT pupils can go and talk to about issues like embracing who they are rather than repressing it, like so many young gay people including me did. I know a young gay man who is just 16 and I’ve told him if he ever needs to talk about anything to do with coming out, the gay scene and things like that he can do and he told me how much he appreciates that. I wish I had someone to talk to about being gay when I was 16.

www.lgf.org.uk

AGENDA OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2009

NEWS

DRUG USE

KATE HARDY OPINION

You are all fabulous! Yes you are. There you go, I have started this column with a statement so far from my last column that you would almost think of me as an optimistic individual. It pains me to write such cheery words when I am usually such a grumpy spud. My Katy Perry rant last month was thoroughly enjoyable, but I believe in balance, so here goes. The LGF’s Homo Hero campaign united figures such as Kylie, Dusty Springfield and Martina Navratilova in a whole weekend love-in of motivating madness. We asked Pride goers who their homo hero was and the result was a plethora of inspirational characters, ranging from Carol Ann Duffy to, well, your ma. Some people had to think about it, some people knew straight away who theirs was, and some, well, just chose who they fancied at the time. Whatever your reason, the impact was one that made me think about all the lovely people out there who make your life a wee bit easier from time to time.

This world is so shallow sometimes, and we all on occasion like to box people off under neat little categories that we know and understand. Boxes are comfy, you know where the corners are and you know where your boundaries lie. Human nature compartmentalizes, but what we also have a huge capacity for is surprise, and the Homo Heroes campaign only goes to prove that we humans can actually look for meaning beyond the masks that we sometimes wear. We don’t really have a choice about who we are inspired by; some heroes are only around for a little while, some stay for longer, some you take for granted and some don’t let you. It’s all very cheesy this I know, but here is someone who a few weeks ago was convinced there were hardly any positive, high profile gay/bi women out there. I am wrong – I just wasn’t looking hard enough. It’s quite difficult to pin point exactly what and who inspires you, and sometimes it’s easier to concentrate on who doesn’t. If you haven’t thought about who your homo hero is, have a little think, and, if you are fortunate enough to know them personally, give them a little present, like a chocolate bar, or better still, a nice hug. Oh, and my Homo Hero? Peppermint Patty. Yes Sir.

PS - You can be a Homo Hero today. Help LGF get our inspirational guide for young people (Aim High) printed and into schools! Visit www.lgf.org.uk to donate!

JOB CENTRE PLUS PROMOTES HELP FOR PROBLEM DRUG USERS Jobcentre Plus is working on a joint initiative with the National Treatment Agency (NTA), to promote awareness of the help that is available for anyone who is a problem drug user. From April 2009, Jobcentre Plus staff have been referring volunteer customers who are problem drug users to a discussion with a Drug Treatment Provider. Referrals are for customers who are claiming Job Seekers Allowance (JSA) or Employment Support Allowance (ESA), who use problem drugs (heroin or crack cocaine) who are not already undergoing treatment and where addiction is perceived to be a barrier to work. This is a significant advance for Jobcentre Plus in supporting drug misusers who claim JSA or ESA. It is the first time Personal Advisers have had a clear course of action to take and provide support to help customers in combating their problem drug use. District Drug Coordinators have built and equipped teams of Lead Advisers who can identify customers in each local Jobcentre and refer them to treatment provision. Every local office has a single point of contact for colleagues and external partners. The Drug Coordinators are building relationships with external agencies and organisations working with drug users, to gain a better understanding of the problems and issues that users face and look at new ways of helping to reintegrate, through training, voluntary work or employment. Jobcentre Plus is keen to raise awareness of its programmes and services. They are working to deliver drug treatment to drug users. The Drug Coordinators aim to gain commitment to the importance of employment in drug treatment. They are effectively engaging with local employers who might recruit former or in-treatment problematic drug users.

Support the work of the LGF. Donate online today at www.lgf.org.uk

HOM

AGENDA OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2009

NEWS

IN PICTURES!

HERO O ES

YOUR HEROES HOMO HEROES - UPDATED!

Over Manchester Pride, the LGF asked literally hundreds of you for your Homo Heroes. The updated list looks like this... Over the past few months the LGF has been asking you to vote for your homo heroes, those individuals who have made people sit up and take notice of LGB&T issues.

ELLEN As outnorthwest went to print, a final fundraising figure for Manchester Pride was yet to be announced. Keep an eye on the official website www.manchesterpride.com, or the LGF site www.lgf.org.uk. We will also be producing a special edition of Daily Out as soon as the figure is announced. You can check out hundreds more Manchester Pride images at Photos above by Paul Jones (Exposure) and Sarah Quinn the LGF website now.

VIRAL VIDEO

F**K

ALAN

PINK

The LGF and Bellyflop TV produced a hugely popular YouTube viral video over Manchester Pride - spread the word! Taking inspiration from French bloggers, the LGF and Jonathan Robinson (Bellyflop TV) produced what has quickly become a smash-hit You Tube viral video over Manchester Pride. Filmed, edited and uploaded in only two days, Lily Allen’s anti-hate track ‘F**k You’ forms the basis of an uplifting and empowering message of anti-homophobia. We’re keen the message gets across the world, so please add it to your Facebook profile! Are you in the video? Check it out now at www.lgf.org.uk, or at Jonathan Robinson’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/JonathanRobinson

ELTON

MADONNA

The response has been fantastic, especially over Manchester Pride when hundreds of people flocked to the LGF stall to tell us all about their inspirations. Now that all the votes are in and counted, here’s how the final homo hero top 20 lines up... 1. Ellen DeGeneres 2. John Barrowman 3. Stephen Fry 4. Tony Blair 5. Sir Ian McKellen 6. Harvey Milk 7. Quentin Crisp 8. Oscar Wilde 9. Alan Carr 10. Freddie Mercury 11. Alan Turing 12. Martina Navratilova 13. Russell T Davies 14. Pink 15. Dusty Springfield 16. Peter Tatchell 17. Will Young 18. Elton John 19. Madonna 20. Jimmy Sommerville Now, you can inspire the next generation of homo heroes! By helping us to get Aim High - the LGF’s inspirational guide for young lesbian, gay and bisexual people - into schools in time for LGBT History Month 2010. With 65% of young LGBs reporting incidents of homophobic bullying in schools, it’s no surprise that they are less likely to achieve academically than their heterosexual counterparts, with your help we want this to change. To find out more about how you can be a Homo Hero and help LGB young people, visit www.lgf.org.uk www.lgf.org.uk

AGENDA OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2009 GET YOUR KIT ON FOR THE BEARS!

NEWS

PRE-HIBERNATION 2009

You can’t beat a bit of fur when the cold sets in...

NOVEMB

6-8

NDAY

FRIDAY-SU

Well that’s the Summer gone and as Winter fast approaches Bears from all over will be descending on Manchester once again for their annual Pre-HiBEARnation get together. Expect to see lots of hairy-arsed rugby wannabes getting their sports kit on for the lads. Where do we sign? The event kicks off (...sorry) in the Bears Home Team Social Club (aka The Outpost) where all players are welcomed to the pre-match social. Games continue with SCRUMMAGE the sports kit themed club night

at Legends. More ball games at the Bear Sauna early Saturday afternoon followed by a new Showbears production with Jonathon Mayor hosting and then it’s off to an early bath in the Pool Party, a disco nap and on to the PreHiBEARnation Club Night. For those who make it through to Sunday there’s a Brunch and later in the afternoon the legendary Last Pizza The Action phew! Not so much a scrum as a bearathon! Registration costs £15 (this guarantees entry into the club nights. Door price will be £8) add-on’s include Sauna tickets £10, Pool Party £5. Check out the Manbears website shop for registration packs and add on tickets. www.manbears.co.uk

HIV

POSITIVE SUPPORT FOR CITY COUNCILLOR Paul Fairweather announces HIV status at Manchester Pride Candlelit Vigil, to overwhelming support.

Manchester City Councillor (and outnorthwest columnist) Paul Fairweather, told festival-goers at the end of Manchester Pride he was HIV positive during the annual vigil remembering those who have been affected by the virus. “For a number of personal reasons it was the right time to be more public about my status.” Paul told outnorthwest, “I believe that the most powerful weapon we have against the stigma and stereotyping about HIV is to come out.” he says. It came as a surprise when after speaking at the vigil, Paul was the subject of much interest from the local media and gay press, “I think it has made me realize still how few people in any form of public life have come out about their status. ” he adds. The Councillor has also been surprised by reactions from local residents and community 14

groups that he works closely with, along with members of the public. “I have had complete strangers email me saying that they were moved by what I said and that it had made a difference to their taking action against stigma,” Paul adds. “One guy who was at the Vigil and was recently diagnosed told his family and they have been really supportive. He has since contacted me to say that he feels so much better in himself for having told them.” “However we can never put pressure on people to come out about their status but I hope the fact that I have had such a positive response will encourage other HIV+ people to think that it is possible to do it. I think it is important for everyone to know their HIV status so I would encourage people to have an HIV test. I think we also need to stress that there is no cure and that for some people even with combination therapies this is not an easy condition to live with. We need

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to know more about why some gay men have unsafe sex and what that says about how they feel about themselves. We also need to be doing more specific work with HIV positive gay men.” Everyone at the Lesbian & Gay Foundation wishes Paul well and would like to thank him for his continued contribution to helping challenge the stigma and prejudice faced by HIV positive people everywhere. You can read Paul’s regular column on page 12. For a full version of this interview please visit www.lgf.org.uk

AGENDA OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2009

NEWS

“The National Union of Students claims that one in four students will experience feelings of unhappiness or distress.”

Starting a new course at college or university is an exciting time in anyone’s life, but everyone needs little help before they find their feet. The first week or so is all about having fun, getting to know people and exploring your new environment. The expectation is that you will be having the ‘time of your life’, a phrase which is often used to describe your years spent in education. This can make it very hard for to say ‘I’m not enjoying this; I’m actually having quite a rubbish time’. Many new students will have high expectations of what student life will be like, and although many really will have the time of their life whilst at college or university, some may find it harder than they thought. The stereotypical image of the student life being all about lazing about, lying in and drinking beer is quite often far from the truth. Many students work extremely hard and have little money, whilst at the same time trying to maintain a social life, have fun, earn money, maintain relationships with family and keep up their grades. Sounds like a bit of a juggling act!! Some of you will be leaving home for the first time and taking your first steps living on your own in a new place. Others of you may still be living at home whilst at uni or will be leaving school friends and familiar surroundings behind for a new beginning at college. All of these situations involve new and unfamiliar experiences, the thought of which may be exciting or perhaps a little daunting. You might be looking forward to meeting lots of new people and exploring or being

GET FRESH! IT’S A NEW TERM!

New student in town? Excited? A little bit daunted? Either way, we can support you.

Your new best friend: The Lesbian & Gay Foundation has loads of services on offer to help make your life in a new city go the best it can. Including this very magazine! Check out our website for info on how you can get involved and make a real difference: www.lgf.org.uk

more open about your sexuality. There are often lots of different LGBT societies and groups for you to join which are great opportunities to get involved in the student community and make new friends. On the other hand some people may feel daunted about the prospect of having to come out to a whole new group of people or even the thought of coming out for the first time might fill you with dread. It is important to remember that whilst this is a new stage in your life and a further step into independence, this doesn’t have to mean that you are on your own.

in dealing with these issues, so if you feel unable to confide in a friend, family member or tutor then there are lots of places you can go to access help and support.

If you’re simply feeling stressed or down, you may find speaking to someone you trust will help take the load from your mind. Talking can play a vital role

The Lesbian and Gay Foundation have a number of services available if you need help and support or even just a friendly ear to listen.

Need to know...

FIND OUT MORE...

The National Union of Students claims that one in four students will experience feelings of unhappiness or distress during their studies. Your doctor or university or college counselling service are two of the most obvious places to go for help. In addition, university chaplains are usually available in a crisis, even if the issue has nothing to do with religion or faith.

For more information about the counselling service or our support and social groups, please call 0161 235 8035. Outside of office hours, you can ring the LGF Helpline on 0845 3 30 30 30. Lines are open 6pm - 10pm, seven days a week. Alternatively, why not e-mail us at helpline@lgf.org.uk www.lgf.org.uk

AGENDA OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2009

NEWS

KEEPING HIS STORY ALIVE MATTHEW SHEPARD: 11 YEARS ON

OCTOBER

12 MONDAY

The Cast

On the eleventh anniversary of the tragic murder of Matthew Shepard, we talk to Hope Theatre’s ADAM ZANE about the innovative new worldwide production The Laramie Project 10 Years Later: An Epilogue Words: Joanne Dunning

Photos by Paul Jones, Exposure.

October 12 marks 11 years since the homophobic murder of Matthew Shepard, a new play – The Laramie Project 10 Years Later An Epilogue - premieres in Salford in October as part of a worldwide project to remember Matthew and challenge homophobia. outnorthwest caught up with the play’s Director Adam Zane to talk about fate and the future…

Andy Paris and Adam Zan e

Matthew Shepard was only 21 when he was brutally murdered in a homophobic attack in Laramie in the United States in 1998. Shepard’s story inspired the play and film The Laramie Project; both are based around interviews with the people of Laramie, after the city had to re-evaluate itself in front of the unforgiving US

media in light of Shepard’s dreadful attack. Ten years after the original Laramie Project, theatres around the world are taking part in an ambitious anti homophobia project, as they perform “The Laramie Project 10 Years Later: An Epilogue”. The play receives its UK premiere at the Lowry in Salford, and members of Manchester’s Hope Theatre Company will perform a read through of the play for one night only. At exactly the same time, theatres in Australia, Spain, and across America will be performing the play on the day of Shepard’s death. The original team of writers from the Tectonic Theatre Project revisited Laramie to gauge how Shepard’s story was still affecting the community and to see how his memory lived on. The director of the Salford leg of the play Adam Zane said: “It’s amazing to look back and see how such a devastating tragedy can have inspired so many people and brought us all together”. This is not the first time that Zane’s Hope Theatre Company has tackled the Matthew Shepard story;

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they have performed The Laramie Project and OUTLOUD – an anti homophobia play set in Manchester whose central point is a short film about Shepard. OUTLOUD has been touring schools for the last three years helping to challenge homophobia and change attitudes. It seems that the Salford premiere of the Epilogue was meant to be; as Adam accidentally bumped in to Andy Paris – one of the play’s writers, whilst honeymooning with his husband (Dick) in Laramie. It seems fate that these two men who have independently dedicated much of their lives to keeping Matthew’s story alive on different sides of the Atlantic, should randomly run into each other over coffee! Zane adds: “It was too strange. I eventually went over with Dick and we told Andy how important the play was to us and how Matthew’s story had such a profound effect on our lives. That’s when Andy told us about the Epilogue.”

AGENDA OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2009

NEWS

REGIONAL ROUND UP

MATTHEW SHEPARD

Curtain Up is back for a preview of this seasons shows The next few months are jam packed with great queer theatre not only do we have the excellent Homotopia Festival in Liverpool but also some other great treats. Not only is The Lowry hosting The Laramie Project 10 Years Later An Epilogue, but it is also showing Matthew Bournes latest production Dorian Gray, based on the Book of the same name by Oscar Wilde (on of the LGF’s Homo Heroes!).

“Michael Causer died only last year. There are still victims of homophobia and hate crime, so we still have a long way to go.” ADAM ZANE The new play features an interview with Matthew’s mother Judy - now a leading campaigner against hate crime in the US, and a shocking interview with Aaron McKinney, now serving dual life terms for Shepard’s murder. The murder of Michael Causer in Merseyside last year, led many gay rights campaigners to draw comparisons with the Shepard case. Matthew Shepard would now be 32, does Zane think that he’d feel that we have made progress in both the US and UK in challenging homophobia? “I think there has definitely been some progress. I think there is more discussion and dialogue about hate crime now, but Michael Causer died only last year - there are still victims of homophobia and hate crime, so we still have a long way to go.” Zane has a clear message for the future: “I think education is key. With the work we do in schools, young people want and need to talk about these issues...teachers need to ensure that schools are safe for everyone and a zero tolerance on all forms of discrimination has to be implemented in all our schools.” There is no doubt that there have been great advancements in LGBT equality over the last ten years, but as a community we cannot afford to be complacent, it has never been more important to keep Matthew’s and Michael’s stories alive.” The Laramie Project 10 Years Later An Epilogue premieres on Monday 12 October (8pm) at the Lowry Theatre, Salford. For tickets: thelowry. com

Bourne, the man behind the all male Swan Lake and the stage version of Edward Scissorhands, in his usual innovative style has brought the story right up to date. Putting Dorian into the heart of the image obsessed art and politics scene, Dorian Gray explores the concept of beauty and its powerful influence over people. Wednesday 21st – Saturday 24th October The Lowry, Salford 0870 787 5780 thelowry.com Tickets from £15

RED RIBBON CABARET It’s back for another year, the Red Ribbon Cabaret this time with the Red Ribbon Pantomime! Always a great night out and raises a huge amount of money for HIV charities. Last years booked up quickly so get your tickets now! Wednesday 25th November, Blackburn - Empire Theatre, 0124 685 500. Tickets £10 (seated) Friday 27th November, Preston - 53 Degrees 01772 893 000. Tickets £8 (standing)

Booking Now!

HAIRSPRAY: THE MUSICAL Hairspray, the musical version of the cult John Waters film, is coming to the North West next summer as part of the first UK Tour. Starring Michael Ball in Manchester, join Tracy Turnblad and be one of ‘The nicest kids in Town’ booking has recently opened for both dates and is sure to book up very quickly.

Tuesday 13th - Saturday 31st July,Opera House - Manchester 0844 847 1722. Tickets from £18.50 Tuesday 17th August - Saturday 4th September, Empire Theatre - Liverpool 0844 847 2525. Tickets from £18.50

www.lgf.org.uk

YOUR WAY GREATER MANCHESTER

We’re back with the latests updates from your region. This time, we thought we would have a closer look at some of the activity in Greater Manchester. There are a lot of very dedicated and fun loving people involved in work for the lesbian, gay bisexual and trans (LGBT) communities that needs to be celebrated. If you want to get involved in anything that’s going on in the area, use the contact details to get in touch directly.

There has never been a better time for the LGB&T communities to insist that their voices are heard.

Above: Proud Tameside

PROUD TAMESIDE

FOCUS ON: TAMESIDE

BE PROUD TAMESIDE Proud Tameside is a voluntary group from the LGB&T communities in Tameside which works towards the improvement of services for LGB&T people in the Borough.

Proud Tameside was formed out of work done by Tameside Third Sector Coalition (T3SC) and the Lesbian and Gay Foundation (LGF) during 2007-2008 and it aims to: • Ensure that LGB&T people have their say about services in Tameside which affect them, and can raise awareness of their needs. 18

• Identify services available to the LGB&T communities in Tameside and raise awareness of how to access these. • Provide a means of consultation with our communities by organisations which deliver our services and affect our lives. • Promote a positive image and acknowledge the contributions of the LGB&T communities in Tameside.

The group meet every two months at the T3SC Offices in Ashton-underLyne – although there will probably be ia new venue from the start of 2010. Anybody from, or with an interest in, the LGB&T communities in Tameside is welcome to come along to meetings

Need to know...

FIND OUT MORE...

Support the work of the LGF. Donate online today at www.lgf.org.uk

and share in discussions. The group have already undertaken two annual IDAHO commemorations and have been requested to be involved in consultations across the Borough. The chair has been invited to attend the local Community Cohesion Partnership as a permanent member, and it looks as if we might get a couple of LGB&T History Month events off the starting blocks next year. It seems there has never been a better time for the LGB&T communities to come forward and insist that their voices are heard - and Proud Tameside are finding quite a few bodies who want to listen.

If you’d like to get involved, visit www.proudtameside. wordpress.com, visit the Proud Tameside Facebook group, or e-mail proudtameside@googlemail.com

GREATER MANCHESTER

REGIONAL ROUND-UP

FOCUS ON: STOCKPORT

OUT IN STOCKPORT ‘Out In Stockport’ (OIS) is a local initiative bringing together Stockport’s main organisations with members of the LGBT community to help raise awareness, organise events in the borough and influence change. It’s estimated that 19,642 people in Stockport are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Trans. Stockport already has an active LGBT social group (People Like Us Stockport) and Youth Group (the BASE) but no clear route to have LGBT voices heard. OIS was initially founded in 2006 by diversity & equality staff from Stockport’s public and voluntary sectors in order to share best practice. This year, the group was opened up to the public

to bring together like-minded people and help systematically lobby Stockport organisations on behalf of the LGBT community. The group meet four times a year to discuss Stockport’s participation in LGBT History Month, the International Day Against Homophobia, Pride, and to influence key decisions. The group aims to develop a clearer picture of Stockport’s LGBT profile, recognise the importance of diversity in our community, and make Stockport a better place to live, study and work for the LGBT community. If you are interested in having your opinions heard, come along to one of our meetings (email outinstockport@yahoo.com for more details), or leave a comment on the OIS Forum at: outinstockport.wordpress.com.

JUST US, WIGAN Just Us is a group of LGBTs from across the borough who meet up in their own dedicated town centre club house most Fridays. The group host gay and lesbian film nights, quiz nights, and social trips to gay clubs and bars. They also provide facilities to anyone who would like to start their own LGBY lobby group. It’s an ideal excuse to meet in a relaxing LGBT environment where people can be themselves. The club house is secure and is rapidly becoming a “home from home” and a fantastic place to meet new people and make friends.

LANCASHIRE

NORTH WEST

Preston LGBT Centre once again present one of the most important annual events in the North West!

Calling all young people! Now in its 6th year the Triathlon for Lesbian, Gay Bisexual and Trans,(LGBT), young people will take place on Saturday 10th October 2009.

Join them at the Red Ribbon Pantomime for unbridled fun, and all for a good cause. 7pm, Wednesday 25th November, Blackburn Empire Theatre (tickets £10 seated – call 01254 685500) and 9pm, Friday 27th November, 53 Degrees, Preston (tickets £8 standing – call 01772 893000).

MERSEYSIDE

FOCUS ON: WIGAN

Welcome to Wigan’s only lesbian, gay bisexual and trans (LGBT) drop in centre and social club. The club provides information, facilities and a place to meet for individuals and groups.

Have you got some good news to report from the last few months? Are you running a new project? Have you got something to say about what your group is doing? If so, email us at rainbow@lgf.org.uk. You can share all your news and let people know about your group.

The group are open Monday, Tuesday and Friday from 12 midday until 2pm for people to drop by and have a cuppa and a chat. They plan to be open longer and have more activities during the evenings, when more volunteers are recruited. It is the only facility of its kind in Wigan Borough and Just Us want people to know they are here not only for fun and relaxation but a source of information and help. So if you are experiencing homophobia in the work place or are treated differently because of your sexuality, visit the group and they can find help for you. Often just knowing you are not alone is in itself an immense help. If you would like to join us, or get more information, phone or skype 0161 408 8693. You can also visit us at http://justus01. community.officelive.com.

A new monthly dropin service has been launched by British Transport Police in the Liverpool City area on the third Tuesday of every month at the Armistead Centre.

These dates marks both World Mental Health Day and World Coming Out Day; both poignant events that have a direct relationship to the well being of LGBT Young People. The triathlon aims to raise physical well being which has a direct impact on emotional well being with in a safe and supportive environment for LGBT Young People. The prize this year is £50 to be spent on a group activity or equipment for the winning team.

If you have any issues around public transport safety or want to report a hate crime or other offence that has happened to you on one a train or at a station, then this is the perfect opportunity.

The event takes place at Trafford Water Park, Sale, and Greater Manchester. Meet at the Mersey Valley Countryside Wardens Visitor Office on Rifle Road at 11 am and the event ends at 4.30pm.

The drop ins are the third Tuesday of every month at 5.00pm at the Armistead Centre, 1 Stanley Street, Liverpool L1 6AA and will happen on 20th October, 17th November and 15th December

Open to 16-24 year olds it is free of charge. For more info contact lgbtyouthnorthwest@ yahoo.co.uk You can also call 07900 680 725

www.lgf.org.uk

INTERVIEW Over the last decade Stephen K Amos has entertained audiences all over the world as one of the UK’s foremost stand-up comedians. Also a writer, actor and presenter, Stephen has just filmed his first solo TV show for the BBC. It’s no surprise, then, that Stephen K Amos is... Words: Andrew Gilliver

FEELING GOOD Support the work of the LGF. Donate online today at www.lgf.org.uk

“It’s imperative that black gay men and women stand up and be counted. It’ll show the younger generation that it’s OK... there are people out there who are just like you. I still can’t name many people prepared to publicly admit to being gay right now.” Well known on the comedy circuit for the last decade Stephen K Amos came out publicly in his 2006 show, All Of Me, although his sexuality had been an open secret to those closest to him before then. “My family and friends have always known everything about me,” says Stephen. “For as long as I can remember I’ve always felt that honesty and being true to yourself is paramount. Having decent people around you who love and support you unconditionally is the only way to get through what can be a difficult and painful experience of coming out. Although my long term, long distance Swedish girlfriend was quite shocked,” he jokes (we think!) Is it important Stephen’s audiences know about his sexuality? “Absolutely not. Although my comedy is essentially about my own experiences it is not defined by my race or sexuality. I do flirt outrageously with my audiences both on stage and in the bar afterwards. In fact I’m flirting with this interview right now.” Such a shame that this interview was conducted via e-mail then... After publicly coming out it wasn’t long before Amos tackled the issue of homophobia in the black British community and in Jamaica with the acclaimed Channel 4 documentary ‘Batty Man’. This followed him on a journey from his childhood homes in Brixton and Tooting, South London, all the way to Jamaica, where he set out to discover why prejudice and violence against gay men remain so prevalent.

BATTY MAN The issue of homophobia in Jamaica was recently highlighted by the murder of British consul John Terry, 65, who died of asphyxiation after being beaten and strangled, in what is thought to be a homophobic attack according to police on the Caribbean island. Reports suggest that he was attacked in his bed; a handwritten note was left on the bed calling him a “batty man” - a

derogatory term for a gay man. In Stephen’s 2007 documentary, he canvassed the opinions of young people in London, and of audiences on the comedy circuit. In Kingston, he talked to several young people who are living in fear of their lives, and to some of the dancehall musicians whose lyrics preach hate and violence against gays. Amos also spoke to Jamaican HIV groups and church leaders in a country where homosexual acts can be punished with ten years’ imprisonment and there is a high level of social intolerance and violence towards LGBT people. “It was quite hard to get people to talk openly on camera about their personal situations. A real climate of fear that was hard to overcome.” Stephen says about the experience. “I was pleased to see people changing their attitudes and the highlight was when one contributor decided to come out to his mother that same day. She turned out to have known all along and completely opened her heart to him. I was also quite envious of how Elephant Man (the ragga artist) was dressed and his entourage of equally well dressed young men. “ “I’ve had nothing but positive and encouraging response to what I feel is a very important programme.” he comments on the reactions since the programme was broadcast. “I’m still in touch with some of the brave people who featured on the documentary and their contribution has gone on to influence young people all around the country.” What does Stephen think needs to be done to support young black gay men growing up in Britain today? “The key is education, education, education” he says, acknowledging that many black gay men are struggling to find suitable role models.“When I was growing up there weren’t

many black role models let alone black gay role models. It’s imperative that black gay men and women stand up and be counted. This will show the younger generation that it is OK and there are people out there who are just like you. I think it’s sad that I still can’t name that many people who would be prepared to publicly admit to being gay right now.”

THE FEEL GOOD FACTOR Things are definitely on the ascendant for Stephen. Currently in the cast of BBC Two sitcom In My Country, a multicultural show set in a run-down guest house; Amos’s own upcoming comedy vehicle will feature sketches, guest slots and banter with the audience. On a visibility level is this the kind of work that he has always hoped to be doing? “Just being able to do good work is what I’ve always hoped to be doing. I never thought I’d be doing my own show but I’m very grateful for the opportunity.” What would he like to do in the future? “Hollywood movies. Write a book. Get a waxwork dummy made for Madame Tussauds. The list is endless.” Somehow you know that all of these things are within his grasp, however for the moment he is concentrating on his new touring show ‘The Feel Good Factor’ focusing on the good things in life.

CATCH STEPHEN LIVE! From 25th October Stephen will be touring the country with his new show. Check out Stephen’s tour page online here: www.boundandgaggedcomedy.com. Stephen’s previous show will be released on DVD on 23 November 2009 entitled ‘Find the Funny - Live’. www.lgf.org.uk

BREAST CARE

LOOKING AFTER

THE GIRLS

It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and ANNIE EMERY highlights the need for good breast care, and regular checking. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Thanks to earlier detection and better treatment more women are surviving breast cancer than ever before. However, it still remains the most common cancer in the UK with over 44,000 women being diagnosed each year. Stonewall’s research into lesbian and bisexual women’s health (Prescription For Change 2008) found that one in twelve lesbian and bisexual women aged between 50 and 79 have been diagnosed with breast cancer compared to one in twenty women in general. There is a higher risk of developing breast cancer if you have had your first child after 30 or you have not had children at all. Research suggests that breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast cancer too. Lesbian and bisexual women are less likely to have carried a child to full term and therefore to have breast fed. Other risk factors include age, family history, excessive use of alcohol, (sorry, but lesbian and bisexual women are more likely to be heavier drinkers than straight women), obesity, using the pill and/or hormone replacement therapy.

All this does not mean you are more likely to develop breast cancer as a lesbian or bisexual woman, but it does mean you could potentially be more at risk. Therefore it is vitally important to know what to look for and to regularly check your breasts.

So how do we check? Being breast aware is a normal part of general body awareness. It is a process of getting to know your own breasts and becoming familiar with their appearance. You can become familiar with your breasts by looking and feeling them – do this in any way you like – this can be in the shower, the bath or when dressing but probably not in the middle of Sainsburys! The key is to know what your breasts look and feel like, and to notice any changes. And if you have a partner – enjoy checking out each others!

Tit Bits: One of the most popular LGF booklets, Thanks For The Mammaries is available now across the North West.

THE BREAST AWARENESS FIVE POINT CODE 1. Know what is normal for you. 2. Know what changes to look and feel for. 3. Look and feel. 4. Report any changes to your GP without delay. 5. Attend routine breast screening if you are over 50. Want to know more?

PICK UP YOURS NOW

What to look for... A change in shape and size (bear in mind breasts can change size during the menstrual cycle and one breast is general bigger than the other so know what’s normal for you) A lump or thickening in the breast or armpit Dimpling of the skin (lik e the texture of orange peel) Discharge from the nip ple A rash on the nipple or

surrounding area Nipples becoming invert ed or changing shape or position Discomfort or pain in the breast

or armpit

Thanks For The Mammaries is available now from venues across Greater Manchester. You can download a copy from: www.lgf.org.uk www.lgf.org.uk

Words: Chris Morley

CHRIS MORLEY on why we all have to play an active part in ending the stigma faced by those living with HIV.

The sting of HIV stigma doesn’t go away. There’s not much let-up in how much it infests the gay scene and the rest of society. When we don’t speak out against HIV stigma, we are part of the problem – our silence gives our consent. But over the Pride bank holiday weekend hundreds were anything but silent. George House Trust scrapped our usual truck and made a noisy chanting parade entry, with close on 100 people putting out a strong anti-stigma message. With our striking red and green highway STOP and GO signs, T-shirts, klaxons, whistles and slogan chanting, we put out the loud and clear message that HIV stigma has to stop and we all need to be part of taking action to end the HIV silence and mistreatment.

Stigma action pledges George House Trust’s stall at the Expo over the weekend was a hive of campaigning anti-HIV stigma action. We had a quickfire list of over 50 things you can do to stop HIV stigma, and people wrote their own pledges and many were happy to be snapped with their promises. There’s over 150 pledges in a set now on George House Trust’s Flickr photostream www.flickr. com/photos/ght/sets, so you can see what people like you are already doing. Some of the pledges and promises are displayed on a page here as inspiration and reminders – short and simple count as much as wordy. We like ‘talk to my friends,’ ‘living positively,’ ‘speaking openly to others so they learn from my experiences,’ ‘raising my voice in the face of prejudice,’ and ‘listening and understanding,’ Pledges to spread the message are powerful, such as ‘educating my students and making them aware,’ ‘talking about 24

www.lgf.org.uk

GO TAKE ACTION AGAINST

HIV STIGMA NOVEMBER Newly Diagnosed Gay Men’s Course

A five evening course for gay and bisexual men diagnosed HIV positive within the last 12 month. You must be able to attend all of the 5 sessions and, if you are not already, become a George House Trust service user. The course is spread over five weekday evenings starting on Tuesday 3 November. It will be at George House Trust in Ardwick, near the Apollo. For more details about the course, the dates, or to book a place, contact Colin on 0161 274 4499 or email colin@ght.org.uk. This course is funded by the Elton John Aids Foundation.

it on the radio.’ Action at work shone through in ‘stopping my staff putting HIV patients in side rooms,’ ‘not hiding my status from people at work,’ and ‘writing to my union.’

Action at the Candlelit Vigil The Candlelit HIV Vigil on bank holiday Monday night saw around 3000 people express their solidarity with stopping HIV stigma and taking action – the stage was dressed with Stop HIV Stigma, Take Action banners, with the performers, choir and speakers T-shirting the message across. Councillor Paul Fairweather, who takes the lead for gay men’s issues at Manchester city council, has spoken often at past vigils, with passionate words of hope and inspiration. This year, he and Craig (one of the Positive Speakers George House Trust has trained to give talks about living with HIV in schools, colleges and workplaces), both stated in public before the largest audience of their own community, their HIV status.

To find out more about the services offered by George House Trust, contact our services team at support@ght.org.uk or call us on 0161 274 4499.

www.ght.org.uk

Taking action against HIV stigma is about ending the silence that surrounds HIV, which is so often the elephant in the room in bars, clubs and saunas. It doesn’t require public declarations of HIV status, but it does require each of us, negative, unknown, positive alike to say in our own way where we stand. Silence says we are siding with HIV stigma.

What can I do? You can find 50 ways to join us in ending HIV stigma, on our website www.ght.org. uk in blue on the left – STOP HIV Stigma. It’s easy to make a small online donation regularly, or become more involved as a trained volunteer and have some fun with like-minded people and learn more, on the way. Simply talking with your mates about testing every year and testing, gets the word about, and helps reduce the spread of HIV. Last year not far short of 400 more gay men joined the ranks of HIV positive men in the North West. The total of positive gay men in the region is now almost 3000. There’s around another 1000 who just haven’t found out yet – gay men who are undiagnosed.

n a n i s a “I w i m 5 2 n i t u o GUM CLINIC

Text: Peter Boyle. All photos by Paul Jones, Exposure. Posed by models.

Going to a sexual health clinic for a check up has actually never been easier. You can usually get an appointment very quickly, and the staff are usually reported as being friendly and approachable. 9 out of 10 gay men who have used a clinic would recommend it to a friend (based on replies of over 16,000 men in the 2005 Gay Mens’ Sex Survey). With many choices of clinic times and venues on offer these days, we spoke to Phil, 26, from Manchester about his experience after he had used the LGF’s Outreach Clinic (which is run in partnership with the Manchester Centre for Sexual Health and the Manchester Public Health Development Service). Phil’s experience is just one example of the way clinics are easier to access than you may think. 26

www.lgf.org.uk

S U O M Y ANON . . . T E E M

PHIL’S STORY

‘

It had been the usual sort of Pride weekend, plenty of booze, plenty of fun and plenty of men. Everything was fine until the Wednesday or Thursday afterwards, when one of my friends told me that he had caught chlamydia! I started to panic that I might have picked up something over the weekend as well. I couldn’t get this thought out of my head, even though I didn’t have any symptoms. I knew that I needed to get a test, but didn’t know how I could get the time off work to hang around in a clinic, or make an appointment at a time when I was supposed to be at work. I remembered that the Lesbian and Gay Foundation ran a weekly Outreach Clinic on a Monday afternoon, and that they were held in gay venues like saunas, and

even one in the LGF offices. I found the idea of going to a gay mens’ sauna a bit daunting as I am not one for going to saunas (although picking up men in bars is fine!). I went on to the LGF website, and it had all the times and dates for the clinics. They were on a Monday afternoon, and this gave me enough time to go in my lunch hour. When I arrived, it felt a bit strange as it may have looked like I was going to the sauna in the middle of the afternoon, but I don’t exactly know who I was expecting to look at me, or even care where I was going! I was met first of all by the staff at the sauna, I didn’t have to pay to get in as I wasn’t there to use the ‘facilities’. They took me to where the clinic was being held, and an LGF volunteer then took me through some paperwork. He was very calming, and didn’t make me feel like I was doing anything wrong. Once I had completed the paperwork I was seen by the nurse, who was also fantastic. The tests are not embarrassing at all. The only swab that she

nd ” ! s e t u n i “I had enough time to pop into Boots for a sandwich on the way back, so nobody at work even had to ask where I’d been.” did was a throat swab, everything else was done with a urine sample. I did have to do my own anal swab, but this was so much easier (and less embarrassing) than when I have been in the past and the nurse does that as well. She did also take bloods for syphilis and HIV, as well as to test whether or not I needed a Hepatitis B jab. These did not hurt at all. She also answered any questions that I had patiently, and didn’t mind me going on and on! And that was it. I was in and out within about 25 minutes. I didn’t tell anyone at work that I had been to a sauna on my break! I had enough time to pop into Boots for a sandwich on the way back, so nobody at work even had to ask where I’d been.

‘

Now I just have to wait for the results, but I do feel better for having gone, and if there is anything wrong at least it will be dealt with quickly, and it is definitely better than sitting around worrying.

BETTER CLINICS. BETTER GO. If you have any questions about going for a sexual health check up, visit www.betterclinics. co.uk or www.lgf.org.uk. Or, if you’d like to speak to someone please contact the LGF during office hours or 0845 235 8035 OR Helpline on 0845 3 30 30 30 (between 6pm – 10pm). www.lgf.org.uk

ALCOHOL

a u o y e ar ! QUIZ TIME

? r e k n i r risky d

e amount you drink th if w o kn u yo o d w Ho risk? Spend a at h lt ea h r u yo g in tt u is p about the last 12 g n ki in th ts en m o m few swer that best fits an e th ck ti st Ju s. th n mo d up your score: ad d an w o n t h g ri u yo QUESTION 1 ve a How often do you ha hol? drink containing alco to question 9) 0 Never (skip Less 1 Monthly or th 2 2-4 times a mon 3 2-3 times a week week 4 4 or more times a QUESTION 2 cohol How many units of al cal day do you have on a typi ? when you are drinking 0 1 or 2 1 3 or 4 2 5 or 6 3 7-9 4 10 or more QUESTION 3 ve six or How often do you ha casion? more units on one oc 0 Never onthly 1 Less than m 2 Monthly 3 Weekly ily 4 Daily or almost da

Support the work of the LGF. Donate online today at www.lgf.org.uk

QUESTION 4 How often during the last year have you found that you were not able to stop drinking once you ha d started? 0 Never 1 Less than m onthly 2 Monthly 3 Weekl y 4 Daily or almost daily

QUESTION 5 How often during the last year have you failed to do what was normally ex pected from you because of drinking? 0 Never 1 Less than m onthly 2 Monthly 3 Weekl y 4 Daily or almost daily QUESTION 6 How often during the last year have you needed a first drink in the morning to get yourself going after a heavy drinking session? 0 Never 1 Less than m onthly 2 Monthly 3 Weekl y 4 Daily or almost daily

20 + Your drinking puts you at risk of developing a psychological and physical dependency to alcohol. It may be dangerous for you to stop drinking suddenly. Scores 20+

PROBABLE DEPENDENCE

NEED HELP?

HARMFUL

The score is not a diagnosis, however it gives you an idea of your level of risk or harm.

16 -- 19 Your drinking is likely to cause you problems or it may have done already. You may wish to have counselling as well as use this guide to cut down or have time off.

your score

8 -- 15

HAZARDOUS

QUESTION 10 Has a relative or frien d or doctor or other he alth worker been concer ned about your drinking or suggested you cut do wn? 0 No 2 Yes, bu t not in the last year 4 Yes, during the last year

0 -- 8

Your drinking appears to be putting your health and well-being at risk. This guide can help you return to healthier and safe levels.

QUESTION 9 Have you or someone else been injured as a resu lt of your drinking? 0 No 2 Yes, but not in the last year 4 Yes, during the last year

Chec results below...

LOW RISK

QUESTION 8 How often during the en last year have you be what unable to remember before happened the night en because you had be drinking? 0 Never monthly 1 Less than 2 Monthly 3 Weekly ily 4 Daily or almost da

how did you scokryoeu?r Congratulations! Your drinking appears to be low risk unless you are pregnant, have other health problems or use alcohol before driving, operating machinery or going to work.

QUESTION 7 last How often during the feeling year have you had a ter of guilt or remorse af drinking? 0 Never onthly 1 Less than m 2 Monthly 3 Weekly 4 Daily or almost daily

Drinkline National Helpline offers 24 hour advice for callers worried about their own or someone elseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drinking. They can provide contact details of alcohol services in your area. Call 0800 917 8282

Special thanks to Manchester Public Health Development Service.

CUT OUT ! AND KEEP

ungiutidse Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve compiled the most popular drinks and their unit measurements. Cut it out and stick it on the fridge or in your purse or wallet. Men should drink no more than 21 units of alcohol per week (and no more than four units in any one day). Women should drink no more than 14 units of alcohol per week (and no more than three units in any one day).

Whisky

35ml = 1.4 units

Alcopops

1 bottle = 1.4 units

Rum/Vodka/ Gin 35ml = 1.3 units

Cider

1pint = 3 units

Lager

1 pint = 2.6 units

Blossom Hill Wine 750ml = 8.3 units

Guinness

1 pint = 3 units

Newcastle Brown

1 pint = 2.4 units www.lgf.org.uk

LGBT CARERS

Angie & Charlotte S. REAL LIVES. REAL STORIE

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We often find ourselves exhausted through lack of sleep and find it difficult to look after our own needs, on top of what we do for Charlotte.â&#x20AC;? Continuing with our regular focus on LGB carers, and the Caring With Confidence programme, ANNIE EMERY talks to ANGIE POWERS who cares for her daughter Charlotte. Angie has been on the Caring with Confidence sessions at The Lesbian & Gay Foundation. This is her story. Words: Annie Emery

Angie, thanks for taking the time to talk with us. Can you tell us about you and your caring role? I live with my partner Sarah and my daughter Charlotte. Both Sarah and I care full time for Charlotte, over the past three months we have been caring on a 24/7 basis with very little respite. Charlotte is 13 years old; she has a rare chromosome disorder (ring chromosome 22), severe Autism, and Epilepsy. Charlotte has no speech and finds the world around her a very confusing and frustrating place to be. Charlotte does not sleep much and is very active. Both Sarah and I help Charlotte with her personal care, social skills, planning her day and more often than not, ensuring that she remains as calm as possible. Charlotte gets very frustrated and this turns into aggression which is often directed at either myself or Sarah. We often find ourselves exhausted through lack of sleep and find it difficult to look after our own needs, on top of what we do for Charlotte.

How did you find out about Caring with Confidence? I found a link to it on the Canal Street website www.canal-st.co.uk 32

Support the work of the LGF. Donate online today at www.lgf.org.uk

How are you finding the Caring with Confidence programme? I have really enjoyed attending the programme, it is a great opportunity to meet with other carers and share experiences.

What have you found most useful/ valuable about it? I think the most valuable aspect of Caring With Confidence has been meeting with other carers, especially in a LGBT setting. I very rarely get a chance to discuss my caring role with friends, and so this programme has provided the opportunity to meet with other LGBT carers and discuss problems that we have all faced.

What do you think the issues are facing LGBT carers? I think the lack of diversity training within support services has a big affect on the way we are handled. I personally have been made to feel uncomfortable in my own home when introducing my partner, who is often referred to as my daughter (there are four years between us). I know this may not be the biggest issue facing LGBT carers but I do feel it has an effect in as much as it makes you sometimes not want to ask for help due to lack of understanding.

Photo: Paul Farncis

Do you look after someone? FREE LOCAL SESSIONS.

Do you think there are specific issues that LGBT carers face or are the issues similar for all carers? Although we do face the same problems as all carers,Â there are many aspects of caring and being LGBT which present their own problems. For example, having to overcome stigma which is all too present in society

If you were recommending Caring with Confidence to other carers what would you say? I would say it is really worth trying to get the time to attend. I am so glad that I have been on the programme, I have come away with more communication skills, a greater sense of self, and realising that I have to make time for me if I am to continue caring, which I would very much like to do.Â With Caring with Confidence, I believe every carer can gain valuable information, enjoy meeting other carers in similar situations, and make friends. I cannot speak highly enough about this course.

outnorthwest would like to thank Angie for her time, and for sharing her experiences with us. If you would like more information about Caring with Confidence or to book a place, please contact Annie Emery annie@lgf.org.uk 0161 235 8024. You can access sessions in Manchester, Blackpool and Liverpool, and we may be able to deliver in a venue near you.

BOOK YOUR PLACE...

For more information and to book your place contact Annie Emery on 0161 235 8024 or email annie@lgf.org.uk. You can also visit www.lgf.org.uk and www.caringwithconfidence.net

Are you an LGBT carer or care for someone who is LGBT? Caring With Confidence will: Help you build your strengths as a carer. Give you the opportunity to share experiences and learn from others in similar situations. Give you useful information, ideas and tips about looking after someone Help you decide what you might like to change about your caring role. Provide travel and alternative care costs for those who need it.

For more information or to book a session contact Annie Emery annie@lgf.org.uk 0161 235 8024

ooty... B r u O g in k a SPOOK! Sh kets c u B r u O g in Shak

OCTOBER

When there’s no more room in hell the dead shall...

DISCO!

30 FRIDAY

ZOMBIE PRIDE LEGENDS, MANCHESTER

Zombie Pride is back from the dead! Last years Zombie Pride was a gore-licious affair and this year Manchester’s most gruesome and glamorous death disco is back for another night to remember! Expect a monster mashup of Halloween horror hits, indie disco and wonky pop with special guest DJ sets from Rod Bollox, Trash-O-Rama and Shock Treatment! Dress to Distress! With the chance to be crowned King or Queen of the Zombie Ball competing in a Zombie Dance Off and beastly beauty pageant hosted by Kurt Dirt and Miss Kitty La Monde ! Get a murderous make over at the zombie make up booth plus grindhouse projections and a Halloween house of horror! Zombie Pride will be haunting Legends on Friday 30th October 11pm - ‘til 4am! Tickets are £4.00 advance from www.lgf.org.uk/ events or £5.00 on the door, All proceeds go to The Lesbian & Gay Foundation ending homophobia and empowering people! For more information contact Joe Spencer at joe.spencer.lgf.org. uk or 0161 235 8012.

Support the work of the LGF. Donate online today at www.lgf.org.uk

n w o t e h t paint

RED!

WORLD AIDS DAY 2009 WE NEED YOUR HELP!

This year the LGF is asking YOU to get involved and paint the town red for World AIDS Day. It’s a great chance for the community to come together and do something fabulous for a great cause! Why not throw your own World AIDS Day Fundraiser? With friends, colleagues or with complete strangers! From big ideas to little ideas we can offer you all the support and help you need whether it’s promoting the event, supplying you with red ribbons or finding raffle prizes! Alternatively hit the streets and join us in Manchester selling ribbons over the World AIDS Day weekend. We need enthusiastic and passionate people to help out at a wide range of exciting events we having going on. If you would like to get involved and volunteer during World AIDS Day weekend contact Joe Spencer at joe.spencer@lgf.org.uk or call 0161 236 8012.

S A M T S I CHRingalong s

We know it’s a little bit too early to be getting excited about Christmas but we can’t help it! Calling all Val Doonican Christmas jumpers! Get them out and get them ready for the biggest Christmas Extravaganza you’ll ever have had the pleasure to sing at, with, or in! Rudolph, Santa, Mary, Donkey’s, inns, booze, fun, piano’s and much much more guaranteed. This is Pianoke (Piano karaoke!) with the Manchester Lesbian and Gay Chorus! Plus plenty of festive treats mulled wine and mince pies! Taking place at AXM’s Piano Bar Sunday 20th December. For more information and to get involved contact Joe Spencer at joe.spencer@lgf.org.uk or on 0161 235 8012.

Thank You!

GIRLS GIRLS GIRLS!

We’re ready to take over Vanilla, this isn’t just any charity auction night! Featuring Burlesque from the delicious Lola Pops, your chance to bid on a dream date at our Lesbian Auction and win some fabulous prizes in the raffle! Plus very special guest compere Rosie Lugosi! This is one evening not to be missed! Sunday 18th September 7 ‘til late, entry is just £3! Where else could you have this much fun on a Sunday night? For more information contact Joe at joe. spencer@lgf.org.uk!

A BIG THANK YOU to Basement Sauna, New York New York, Churchills, Essential and Queer who all collected over the Pride weekend. Also a very special thank you goes to ROB, Lush and Nandos who all very kindly donated raffle prizes for future LGF fundraising events. Big sloppy kisses to Howden Joinery Ltd who very generously donated £300, and also big hugs to Greater Manchester Police’s Lesbian and Gay Staff Affiliation who raised a wonderful £617.50! Another big hug goes to make-up artist Victoria Brown who raised much needed funds at her Eat Your Make-Up fundraiser! High Fives to Manchester Metropolitan University LGBT and University of Manchester LGBT who fundraised with us at their Freshers events! www.lgf.org.uk

greater manchester

MaNchEsTeR

Free Safer Sex Packs available at most venues

MaNchEsTeR MaNchEsTeR

88 Listing Indicator

£ Portland Street

Major Street

Hart Street

42 44 41

PUBS, CLUBS & Bars 1 Alter Ego 105-107 Princess St, 0161 236 9266, home to Poptastic every Tuesday and Saturday night, clubalterego.co.uk 2 AXM 100 Bloom St, 3 Baa-Bar 27 Sackville Street, 0161 247 7997, glitter balls and a flashy dance floor, baabar.co.uk 4 Bar Below 34 Canal Street, 0161 236 5757, intimate and modern bar serving drinks and food.

Bar fifty7 Fourways House, 57 Hilton Street, 0161 236 5757 5

6 Bull’s Head Gay Friendly 84 London Rd, 0161 236 1724.

20 30 23

e Str un

to Ay

Whitworth Street

11 Cruz 101 101 Princess St, 0161 950 0101, one of Manchester’s most popular nightclubs, cruz101.com

22 Spirit Canal Street, 0161 237 9725, lively and modern three-floor bar, spiritbar.uk.com

Eden 3 Brazil Street, 0161 237 9852, food served daily, edenbar.co.uk

Taurus 1 Canal St, 0161 236 4593, taurus-bar.co.uk

13 Essential 8 Minshull Street, 0161 835 1300, nightclub over three floors, essentialmanchester.com

Legends 4-6 Whitworth Street, 0161 236 5400, legendsmanchester.com 14

8 company bar Only 28 Richmond St, 0161 237 9329, companybarmanchester.co.uk 9 Coyotes 14 Chorlton Street, 0161 236 4007, pleasant two floor bar, coyotesbar.co.uk 10 Crunch 10 Canal Street, 0161 236 0446, crunchbar.co.uk

Listings are continually being updated. Please email your listing to: listings@lgf.org.uk

The Bay Horse 35-37 Thomas St, 0161 661 1041, a traditional gay friendly pub, thebayhorsepub.co.uk 24 The New Union 111 Princess St, 0161 228 1492 newunionhotel.com

Mint Lounge Gay Friendly 46-50 Oldham St, 0161 228 1495, trendy bar, mintlounge.com Napoleons 35 Bloom St, 0161 236 8800, welcomes all LGB&T customers, napoleons.co.uk New York New York 94 Bloom St, 0161 236 6556, busy fun pub, popular with lesbians and gays of all ages. 17

46 25 14

The Rembrandt 33 Sackville St, 0161 236 1311, traditional pub, rembrantmanchester.com 26

27 Thompsons Arms 23 Sackville Street, 0161 237 5919. 28 Tribeca Gay Friendly 50 Sackville Street, 0161 236 8300, New York style lounge, tribeca-bar.co.uk

Paddy’s Goose 29 Bloom St, 0161 236 1246, traditional pub.

30 Velvet 2 Canal St, 0161 236 9003, food served daily, velvetmanchester.com

20 Queer 4 Canal Street, 0161 228 1368, queer-manchester.com

31 Via 28-30 Canal St, 0161 236 6523, viamanchester.com

21 Retro Bar 78 Sackville Street, 0161 274 4892, retrobarmanchester.com

32 View 40 Canal St, 0161 236 9033

Venues Key

Mixed

Mainly Men

Mainly Women

Mainly Trans

Bar

Dance Floor

Support the work of the LGF. Donate online today at www.lgf.org.uk

Serves Food

cluB Nights ALERT Fetish at Legends, 4th Friday of the month club-alert.com BOLLOX Pop/Indie at Legends, 3rd Friday of the month bolloxclub.com CLub lash Fetish at Legends, 2nd Friday of the month clublash.com

gen-e-sis Women at Eden, genesisclubnight.co.uk Homoelectric at Legends, 1st Friday every other month homoelectric.com Man Bears present Hairy! Bear at Legends, 2nd Saturday of the month manbears.co.uk Morning Glory at Queer, after hours every Saturday Organic at Spirit, after hours every Sat. POPTASTIC Pop/Indie at Alter Ego, 07974 248 247 poptastic.co.uk Pretty in Pink 80’s club night joe.spencer@lgf.org.uk RECREATION clubrecreation.co.uk

Ending Homophobia,

Empowering People

www.lgf.org.uk

Email: helpline@lgf.org.uk

All information provided by venues. Please check before arrival

Piccadilly Train Station

FEDERATION Mainly Men at The Ritz, every bank holiday clubfederation.com

29 Vanilla 39-41 Richmond Street, 0161 657 8890, vanillagirls.co.uk

Overdraught Student 121 Princess Street, 0161 237 0811

Eager Beaver Manto Bar Lounge, Friday’s

25 The Outpost 4-6 Whitworth St, 0161 236 5400 legendsmanchester.com

Manto 46 Canal Street, 0161 236 2667, bar over three floors, mantobar.com 15

h kC

Sackville Gardens

7 Churchills 37 Chorlton St, 0161 236 5529, karoke Tues and Thurs, churchillsmanchester.com

ina

London Road

in Ch

Canal Street

28 Whitworth Street

e Str

45 tre nS

Canal Street

Chorlton Street

Brazil Street

Richmond Street

29 Sackville Street

Princess Street

ri Ta

t ee Str

lto

9 8

47 Richmond Street

Northern Quarter Hart Street

Bloom Street

Parking Cash Machine

r we Bre

Bloom Street

Major Street

Minshull Street

(Free City Centre Bus)

Chorlton Street Bus/Coach Station

27 Abingdon Street

33 1

Chorlton Street

Sackville Street

Princess Street

Train Station Metrolink Stop Metroshuttle Stop

Portland Street

Cash Point

Outdoor Seating

Local rate applies

Disabled Access

greater manchester commuNity & HEalth 33 Albert Kennedy Trust Princess House, 105-107 Princess St, 0161 228 3308, providing supported lodgings, mentoring, be-friending and information and advice to young LGBT people, admin@akt.org.uk

Kath Locke Centre 123 Moss Lane East, Hulme, 0161 455 0211 The City Centre Project 52 Oldham Street, 0161 228 3308 and 3309, project works with young people 16-25 yrs who’s primary disadvantage is homelessness. The Lesbian & Gay Foundation (LGF) Princess House, 105-107 Princess St, 0161 235 8035, for all your LGB information and services, lgf.org.uk 33

EatEriEs BRASSERIE Gay Friendly Albert Square, 0161 834 7633 CROMA Pizza and Pasta 1 Clarance St, 0161 237 9799, croma.biz CROMA Pizza and Pasta 30 Longfield Centre, Prestwich, 0161 798 7666, croma.biz 35 DRIP COFFEE Fourways House,

57 Hilton Street, 0161 235 5100, relaxed and friendly coffee bar.

Eighth Day Vegan 111 Oxford Road, 0161 273 1850 36 Genghis khans 16 Chorlton Street, 0161 228 1631, genghiskhans.co.uk 37

jacksons Jackson’s Warehouse, 20 Tariff Street, 0161 228 2677, axm-arcobaleno.com Lava Café Bar Castle Quay, 0161 833 2444, lavacafebar.co.uk LIVEBAIT Gay Friendly 22 Lloyd Street, 0161 817 4110, santeonline.co.uk SAPPORO Teppanyaki 91-93 Liverpool Road, 0161 831 9888 38 Shang Hi Gay Friendly 61 Whitworth St, 0161 228 7868

That Café 1031 Stockport Road, 0161 432 4672, thatcafe.co.uk

Shops & sERVICES 34 Bannatynes Health Club Gay Friendly 36-38 Whitworth St, 0161 236 6864 39

Clone Zone 36-38 Sackville Street, 0161 236 1398, clonezone.co.uk 40

FRINGE Richmond Street, 0161 236 5554

41 Funky Crop Shop 37 Bloom Street, 0161 237 1032, village hair shop.

Helen smith FUNERALS 07870 541668, funerals that are individual fitting and true, helensmithfunerals.co.uk NICE ‘N’ NAUGHTY 39 Bloom Street, 0161 228 0020 42

HOTELS & B&B's City Inn Manchester One Piccadilly Place, Auburn Street, 0161 242 1000, cityinn.com CLYDEMOUNT GUEST HOUSE 866 Hyde Rd, Debdale Park, 0161 231 1515, bookings@clydemount.co.uk clydemount.co.uk INTERNATIONAL HOTEL Gay 34 London Rd, 54 bedrooms, 0161 236 1010 46

Velvet Hotel 2 Canal Street, 0161 236 9003, velvetmanchester.com 30

SaUNaS 47 H2O Zone 36-38 Sackville Street, 0161 236 3876, seven day sauna for gay and bi men, h2ozonesauna.com

inferno 496a Wilbraham Road, Chorlton, 0161 860 6666, seven day sauna for gay and bi men, infernosauna.com 48 The Basement Complex 18 Tariff Street, 0161 236 8131, seven day sauna for gay and bi men, basementcomplex.co.uk

aGENCIES 42nd St 20 Swan Street, 0161 832 0170, advice for young LGBs, fortysecondstreet.org.uk Addaction 31 Robert St, 0161 214 0770, Prison resettlement for people with drug problems, addaction.org

North Manchester GUM Delaunays Rd, Crumpsall, 0161 720 2681 North Manchester Hospital Same day HIV test clinic, 0161 720 2845 Rusholme Health Centre Walmer Street, 0161 225 6699 outreach Clinic @ the LGF and 4 other locations, Mondays, no appointment needed, 0161 235 8035, lgf.org.uk Rapid HIV Testing @ the LGF Thursdays 4-6pm, no appointment needed, results in 20 mins, 0161 235 8035, lgf.org.uk the hathersage centre 280 Upper Brook St, 0161 901 1555

GROUPS 40+ GAY MENS GROUP 0845 3 30 30 30, support and social group meets every Thursday 7.30-9pm. ART CLASS 0845 3 30 30 30, arts based activity group meets every Friday 7-9pm. BiPhoria 07941 811124, bisexual support 18+, biphoria.org.uk

Manchester Christian Group 07743 476191 Manchester gay skinheads oi-skinhead.com Manchester Lesbian & Gay Chorus 07944 056047, mlgc.org.uk Manchester LGB Asylum Group 07816 992218 Manchester Parents Group 01565 733891 Mango Men’s dining club 07866 909677, 1st Thursday of the month, mango.news@btopenworld.com Metropolitan Community Church United Reformed Church, Wilbraham Rd, 0161 881 6050, LGB&T led christian church mccmanchester.co.uk

Barnardo’s Health Through Action The Progress Centre, Charlton Place, Ardwick Green, 0161 273 2901

CAROUSEL 0845 3 30 30 30, social group for lesbian and bisexual women meets 1st, 3rd and 5th Tuesday 7.30-9pm.

BARNArDOS MANCHESTER LEAVING CARE SERVICES 36 Monton Street, 0161 226 6722, barnardos.org.uk

Edward carpenter community of gay men for support, trust and friendship, gaycommunity.org.uk

Black Health Agency 464 Chester Rd, 0161 226 9145, AIDS Helpline: 0800 0967500, blackhealthagency.org.uk

ESSENCE COUNSELLING info@essencecounselling.org www.essencecounselling.org

Body Positive 39 Russell Road, Whalley Range, 0161 882 2200, bpnw.org.uk

friends of sackville gardens friendsofsackvillegardens@hotmail.co.uk

OutWrite 07931 915 620, LGBT writing group, outwrite.org.uk

Community Alcohol Team 0161 230 6382, manchestercat.org

Gaydio c/o The LGF, Princess House, 105-107 Princess St, 00845 310 2712, info@gaydio.co.uk

Proud 2 b Parents, 0161 226 0162 or 0161 274 7391, for LGB&T parents and their children every 4th Saturday, matthew.roberts@manchester.nhs.uk

Community Arts North West 46-50 Oldham St, 0161 234 2975 can.uk.com George House Trust 77 Ardwick Green North, 0161 274 4499, ght.org.uk Lifeline 101-103 Oldham St, 0161 839 2054, lifeline.org.uk Lifeshare 0161 953 4069, male sex workers advice, lifeshare.co.uk Manchester Drug Service The Bridge, 104 Fairfield Street, 0161 273 4040

44 Pure Tanning and Village Off License 37-39 Bloom St, 0161 236 1788

Manchester Smoking Cessation 0161 205 5998

QueensClean.co.uk Gay owned and managed cleaning service. 0753 329 2451/ 0161 298 0335, email Queensclean@2die4.com

Pankhurst Centre 60-62 Nelson Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock, 0161 273 5673, pankhurstcentre.org.uk

UPPERCUTS BARBERS The Arndale Market, 07784 156 693

Jarman Clinic Withington Hospital, 0161 217 4939

Alcohol and Drug Services 29a Ardwick Green North, 0161 272 8844 alcoholanddrugservices.org.uk

43 Olive Deli 36-38 Whitworth St, 0161 236 2360

ROB 17 China Lane, 0161 236 6222, for all your leather, rubber and twisted gear, rob.com

CLINICS

BLACK NORTH WEST 0845 3 30 30 30, for lesbian, gay and bisexual people of colour, meet at the LGF on the first Friday of the month from 7.30pm.

Manchester Foyer 61 Booth St West, Hulme, 0161 276 1000, supported accomodation for 16-25s, manchesterfoyer.org.uk

The Village Citizen Advice Bureau 25a Hankinson Way, Salford Precinct, 0161 834 2005, advice@thevillage.org.uk

St. Mary’s Centre New St. Mary’s Hospital, Hathersage Road, 0161 276 6515, sexual assault referral centre, stmaryscentre.org The Lesbian Community Project 49-51 Sidney Street, 0161 273 7128, manchesterlep.org.uk

gay MARRIED MENS GROUP A support group meets 1st and 3rd Tuesday 7.30-9pm at the LGF, 0845 3 30 30 30

MMU LGBT mmu_lgbt@hotmail.co.uk MORF Manchester Lesbian & Gay Centre, 45-51 Sydney St, 0794 824 3289, social and support group for Transguys in Manchester, morf@morf.org.uk Northern Concord PO Box 258, Manchester. M60 1LN. northernconcord.org.uk Out In The City call Sue 0161 833 3944, older LGBTs meet alternate Thurs at Taurus.

queer skinhead brotherhood queerskinbrotherhood@googlemail.com

Gay Naturist SWIM all ages, nude_n_manchester@yahoo.co.uk

Queer Youth Manchester 07092 031 086, info@queeryouth.net

Icebreakers gay & bi men's support group meets 8pm every Wednesday at the LGF, 0845 3 30 30 30, icebreakersmanchester.org.uk

Rainbow Families c/o LCP, 0161 273 7128, rainbow_families@hotmail.com

Inner Enigma 0845 838 1264, trans and intersex support and advice, 7pm -10pm, info@innerenigma.co.uk

salford youth service lgbt youth group at The Base, 0161 778 0702, steve.dyson@salford.gov.uk

KESHET Advocacy, education and support service for jewish LGB&Ts, 07528 700 926, info@keshetmanchester.org.uk

SM Dykes 49-51 Sidney Street, 07952 237 526, smdykes@smdykes.org.uk

Lesbian and Gay Youth Manchester (LGYM) PO Box 153, 0161 273 7838, meets every Tues 7.30-10pm, Sat 3pm-7pm, LGBT group 14-25yrs. info@lgym.org.uk Let’s Do Lunch 07813 083242, lesbian diners every other month, paulad650@aol.com lesbiandiners.org.uk LIK:T 07813 981 338, run by and for young lesbian and bisexual women, 1st Monday of the month, likt_info@likt.org.uk

Right2Unite Zion Centre, Hulme, 0161 226 0170, LGB group meets every Tues.

Sphere 07854 901330, contribute to a South Asian LBT theatre project, all@sphere.org.uk STEPPING STONES 0845 3 30 30 30, A support group for lesbian and bisexual women meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday 7.30-9pm. Triangle Club group for deaf LGBs, triangle_club_@hotmail.com Transforum trans social and support group, jennyannebuk@yahoo.co.uk VADA Theatre Company PO Box 92, 0161 881 0886

www.lgf.org.uk

greater manchester women’s domestic violence Refuge: 0161 861 8428, Helpline: 0161 636 7525, support and advice to women and children experiencing domestic violence. UMSU LGBT Society student group, for social events, campagins, drop-ins and support enquiries@lgbt.manchester.ac.uk

SPORTS GROUPS Absolutely DANCING Trinity High School every Weds 8pm-10pm latin and ballroom lessons for the LGB&T community. absolutelydancingmanchester@ hotmail.com BELUGA DIVERS Scuba Diving club for the LGBT community, belugadiving.co.uk Gay city strollers 0845 3 30 30 30, city centre walking group, info@lgf.org.uk Gay gordons manchester Scottish Country and Ceilidh Dancing and classes gay-gordons-manchester.co.uk GAY OUTDOOR GROUP transpennine walking group, 07855 197607 goctranspennine.org.uk Ghap badminton text 07946 191 482, ghapbadminton.org.uk MANCHESTER BADMINTON CLUB 07939 477026, Badminton club for the less experienced player.

OlDhAm

SS HIV TEAM Children & Young People 0161 475 6700

outdoor lads climbing club outdoorlads.com

Dog & Duck 25 St. Domingos Street, 07999 060646 thedogandduck.com

Out on Sunday 07775 671691, walking group, outonsunday.co.uk

THE ABBEY INN Mixed 77 West Street.

Stockport Centre for Health Promotion Regent House, Heaton Lane, 0161 426 5091

Village Manchester FC gay men’s football club for every level, vmfc.co.uk Village Spartans Rugby Training sessions on Wednesday evening from 7pm, villagespartans.co.uk WEEKENDERS lesbian and gay walking group based in the North of England, geocities.com/weekenders_uk

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

CLINICs

The Phoenix Sexual Health Centre Royal Oldham Hospital, Rochdale Rd, 0161 627 8753

SaUNaS

Pennine Sauna 96 Rochdale Rd, Shaw, 01706 842 000

ROcHdAlE PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Bar Vegas 37 Bailey St, 01706 630 708

CLINICS

Crisis Intervention Team 01706 517 613

wheelies fc Manchester Leisure Sports Centre, Denmark Road, mixed womens football every Sunday from 11am to 1pm.

Sexual Health PROMOTION UNIT 01706 517 613

BoLtOn

THE BRIDGE SEXUAL HEALTH CLINIC Bailie Street 01706 627 8753

The Star 11 Bow St, 01204 361113

GROUPS

pubs, clubs & bars club Night

TOUCH OF CLASS 139 High St, 07834 483646, A monthly disco for lesbian and bisexual women, doreen.single@ntlworld.co.uk Twisty tuesdays J2 & The Attic Square

Proud Youth around rochdale 07531 061 777, LGBT young people from Rochdale, Heywood and Middleton 14-25 lgbtyouthnorthwest.org.uk

SaLfOrD CLINICs

Manchester Front Runners 07813 336 445, running club for all abilities, manchesterfrontrunners.org

aGENCIES & CLINICs

Brook Advisory 55 Regent Street, Eccles, 0161 707 9550

Manchester jessies walking group manchesterjessies@googlemail.com

HIV worker Emma Massey 01204 390772

eccles health centre Corporation Road, 0161 212 5500

MANCHESTER PRAIRIE DOGS 07960 351 882, line dance club, manchesterprairiedogs.co.uk Manchester SHARKS Miles Platting Pool, Varley Street, water polo club manchestersharks.co.uk Manchester Stingers WFC Womens football club for all abilities, manchesterstingers.net MANCHESTER VIXENS LADIES FC 07921 838 733, LBT football clubs, emphasis on fun, manchestervixens.co.uk manchester walking women its.elly@yahoo.co.uk Marlin Levenshulme Swimming Pool, Barlow Rd, trans swimming group, swim@marlin.org.uk NETBALL 07939 477 026, women only group with weekly coaching, training every Monday, 8-10pm. NORTHERN ACES TENNIS GROUP 07929 917 361, tennis play in a social yet competitive environment, professional coaching, northernacestennis.com NORTHERN FLIGHT BADMINTON CLUB For experienced players, northernflight.org.uk northern jump 07783 297965, volleyball group, northernjump.co.uk Northern Wave swimming club 0161 872 1990, swimming for all, northernwave.org orca divers 125 Manchester Road, Chorlton, 0161 718 3118, orcadivers.com OPEN ATHLETICS 07709 000 436, openathletics.org OUTDOOR LADS gay and bi-sexual lads Listings are continually being updated. Please email your listing to: listings@lgf.org.uk

into outdoor activities, outdoorlads.com

Bolton Centre for Sexual Health Minerva Road, Farnworth, 01204 390771

MENTAL HEALTH independent support (MhIST) 30 Chorley New Road, 01204 527200, mhist.co.uk The Parallel 9A Churchgate, 01204 462444 theparallel@bolton.nhs.uk

GrOUPS

higher broughton health centre Bevendon Square, 0161 212 4500, Wed. 6-8.30pm, Fri. 9.30-11.30am. irlam medical centre MacDonald Rd, 0161 212 5400, Wed. 6-8.30pm.

SOLICITORS

B. J. McKENNA & CO 182A Heaton Moor Road, Heaton Moor, 0161 432 5757, bj.mckenna@zen.co.uk O’Neill Patient Solicitors Chester House, 2 Chester Rd, Hazel Grove, 0161 483 8555, oneillpatient.co.uk

GROUPS

Out in stockport Stepping Hill, 0161 483 4784 outinstockport.wordpress.com People Like Us (PLUS) 07717 038868, LGBT Social support group, 2nd Wed of the month at The Arden Arms, 7.30pm, stockportplus.org PLUS Exercise Group (PEG) 07880 746 079, arranges monthly walks in the Stockport area PLUS Reading Group 0161 419 4840 The Base LGBt YOUTH GROUP Training and Development Centre, 0161 477 4096 thebase@stockport.gov.uk

SPORTS GROUPS

stockport lesbian & gay dance group Latin and Ballroom dance group, Thursdays 7-9pm. margaret@mmurdoch07. orangehome.co.uk

TamEsIde

pubs, clubs & bars

The Turnpike Gay Owned Lees Road, Ashton-under-Lyne, 0161 343 0220

CLINICs

Sexual Health Clinic Ashton Primary Care Centre, 193 Old Street, Ashton-under-Lyne, 0161 342 7100

READING GROUP FOR LESBIAN AND GAY LITERATURE 01204 333173, 3rd Tues of the month 6.30pm, central.library@bolton.gov.uk

lance burn health centre Churchills Way, 0161 212 4600, Tues. 6-8.30pm. Salford Sexual Health Clinic Oaklands Hospital, 0161 212 5717

GROUPS

bUrY

swinton clinic 139 Partington Lane, 0161 212 5100, Tues 6-8.30pm.

Outloud Tameside Young People Centre, Duke Street, Denton, LGBT young peoples group.

aGENCIES & CLINICs Connexions 13-15 Broad St, 0161 253 7165, safe environment for young LGBTQ people to meet. The Barlow Suite Clinic Fairfield Hospital, Rochdale Old Rd, 0161 778 2755 Young Person’s Advisory Service (YPAS) Parsons Lane, 0161 761 2136, sexual health services for under 20’s.

SErvicEs

Timeless Funeral Services 265 - 267 Dumers Lane, Radcliffe, 0161 959 0108

ChOrlTon PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

bar braw Mainly Women 483 Barlow Moor Rd.

The gateway Bolton Road, Walkden, 0161 212 5717, Monday's 6-8.30pm. Walkden Medical Centre Dr Simon Wright, 2 Hodge Road, 0844 477 2434

Groups

Salford LGBT Network 07947 909 339, for people who live, work or study in Salford, salfordlgbt.net SALFORD YOUTH @ The Base, 0161 778 0702, for young LGBT people to meet, recieve advice, info and support. steve.dyson@salford.gov.uk

sTOcKpOrT

Glossop LGBT group glossoplgbt.co.uk

Proud Tameside - LGBT Network 0161 339 4985, tinyurl.com/proudtameside

trAfFoRd CLINICs

The Trafford Centre for Sexual Health Trafford Hospital, Moorside Rd, 0161 746 2621

aGENCIES

Relate 346 Chester Road, 0161 872 0303

GROUPS

HIV Support Group 0161 912 4611, hivpractitione@trafford.org.uk

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

No Attitude 0161 912 2453, LGB youth group.

CROMA Pizza and Pasta 498-500 Wilbraham Road, 0161 881 1117, croma.biz

CLINICs

WIGan

The Lead Station 99 Beech Road, 0161 881 5559

aGENCIES

EaTERIES

ARDEN ARMS 23 Millgate, 0161 480 2185

GUM DEPARTMENT Stepping Hill Hospital, 0161 419 5370

Club Nights

Pop NIght @ Club wn1 Monthly club night, pop-wigan.co.uk

shops

Age Concern 56 Wellington Street, 0161 480 1211

CLINICs

sauNas

Central Youth ADVICE AND INFO 0161 480 9600, Counselling and sexual healh services for young people up to 25.

GROUPS

Pad Gift Shop 105 Manchester Road, 0161 881 0088, pad-chorlton.co.uk inferno 496a Wilbraham Road, 0161 860 6666, infernosauna.com

Community HIV Nurse 07879 628918 SOcial Service HIV Team Adults 0161 419 5569

Support the work of the LGF. Donate online today at www.lgf.org.uk

Sexual Health Clinic Royal Albert Infirmary, Wigan Lane, 01942 822 277 Borough Pride LGBT Drop in Centre 11 Newmarket Street, 0161 408 8693, geocities.com/boroughpride/lgbt-drop-in-centre Wigan Pride (WISK) 01942 242999 wiganpride.cjb.net

Yorkshire and Lancashire Women Out in Wigan PO Box 287, Wigan, 07812 517543

THE STEAM COMPLEX SAUNA Eyres Av, 01132 798885, steamcomplex.com

wYtHenShAwE

CLINIC & agENCIES

aGENCIES

New Start Trust Alderman Downward House, 0161 498 0615, drug advice and support.

YorKsHIre YorKsHIre THE MANX ARMS 32 Sheffield Road, 07812 319976, themanxarms.com

The New Union 3 Union Bank Yard, New Street, 01484 535435

LEeDs

GROUPS

88 Listing Indicator

HUGG Social group for gay & bi men, 18+,every Tuesday from 8pm. hugg.org.uk

Briggate

Gascoigne St. Heaton’s Court (front)

HUDdERsFiEld THE GREYHOUND Manchester Road, 01484 420 742

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

YORKSHIRE MESMAC mesmac.co.uk

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

BArnSlEY

Parking Cash Machine Pedestrianised

The Centre for Sexual Health Sunnybank Wing, Great George Street, appointments: 0113 392 6724/0113 392 6725, health advisors: 0113 392 6057

Heaton’s Court (back)

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Swinegate

Parr St.

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

3 Mission 8-13 Heaton’s Court, 08701 220114

Old Red Lion Meadow Lane, 0113 242 6779 4

Queen’s Court/Loft 166 Lower Briggate, 0113 245 9449 5

Bar Ibiza 43 Darwen St, 01254 695379 12/5/09 12:21:30

C’est La Vie 11-15 Market St, 01254 691877 Stagedoor 23 Mincing Lane, 01254 674761

CLINICS

Sexual Health Clinic Blackburn Royal Infirmary, Bolton Road, 01254 687 304 SHOUT 01254 300126, young sexual health team up to 25 shoutteam@yahoo.co.uk

Burnley

7 The New Penny 57-59 Call Lane, 0113 243 8055

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

BACKSTAGE BAR 135 St James St, 01282 414895

The Bridge 1-5 Bridge End, 0113 244 4734 8

VIADUCT 11 Lower Briggate, 0113 245 4863 9

GABRIELS Graffiti Club, Bethesda Road, Burnley, every Saturday from 10pm3am.

CLINICS

Sexual Health Clinic St. Peter’s Centre tel 01282 644300

SaUNaS 11 Basement Sauna

Sexual Health Services for the Under 25’s www.condomcollective.com

Nice 'n' naughty 164 Briggate, 0113 242 6967, leeds@niceandnaughty.co.uk

www.lgf.org.uk

Project Oscar 0800 7835345, LGBT info. & support, project-oscar@chorley-pct.nhs.uk

LanCAStEr CLUB NIGHTS

Gregson Café/Bar Gregson Community and Arts Centre, 33 Moorgate, 01524 849959, gregson.co.uk

LanCaSHire

6 RELIGION 174 Lower Briggate, 0113 246 9898, religionleeds.co.uk

Email: helpline@lgf.org.uk

aGENCIES

75 Church Street, 01524 842843, LanCaSHire info@thedukeoflancaster.com thedukeoflancaster.com

bsure 0845 602 0894, Chlamydia screening for under 25’s, b-sure@bwdpct.nhs.uk

Empowering People

POUT! 0800 7831524, youth group and helpline, every Wed, pout99@hotmail.com lancsycs.org/pout

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Blayde’s Bar 3-7 Blayde’s Yard, 0113 244 5590 2

Ending Homophobia,

breakout LGBT community radio group, c.o Chorley FM, lgbt@chorley.fm breakoutshow.co.uk

SCaRBoROuGh

BlACkBuRn

Bar Fibre Lower Briggate, 08701 200888 1

7 Heaton’s Court, 0113 242 7730, basementcomplex.co.uk

GROUPS

LanCaSHire THE DUKE OF LANCASTER

The Calls

SHOPS

CHOrlEy

DANCING DIVA For more information, dancingdiva5@hotmail.com

BACCHUS 7a Ramshill Road, lesbian and gay club, diverse crowd, bacchus-scarborough.co.uk

1 7

Rossendale LGBT Youth Group 07817 541242, LGBT youth from Rossendale, Accrington and Burnley, rossendalelgbt@hotmail.co.uk

NELSONS WINE BAR Crown St, 01422 844 782

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

6 Briggate

Blayd’s Yard

Blayd’s Mews

HeBDEn BrIdgE

10 5 1

Listings are continually being updated. Please email your listing to: listings@lgf.org.uk

GROUPS

Lesbian & Gay Switchboard 01524 847437, Thursday/Friday 7-9pm Lesbian Social Group (All ages) lunettes@btinternet.com PYRO (Proud Youth Are Out) 07717 301821, pyro@ed.lancscc.gov.uk

CLINICS

Can’t Pick Up A Copy

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PrEstOn

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Blowing Wild Club Grimshaw Street, open Thurs, Fri, Sat, 07752 512232 Oblivion 12-14 Grimshaw St, 01772 252876

CLINICS

Sexual Health Clinic Royal Preston Hospital, Sharoe Green Lane, 01772 522814

AGENCIES

drugline lancashire 2 Union Court, 01772 825 684, enquiries@druglinelancs.co.uk Preston HIV Support Team Helpline: 01772 468170, PO Box 515, Preston, PR1 8XP, phivst@aol.com Project Oscar 0800 7835345, LGBT info. & support, project-oscar@chorley-pct.nhs.uk

GROUPS

CENTRAL LANCASHIRE HIV ADVICE 01772 825 684, Helpline: 01772 253 840, Drugline Lancashire Ltd, 2 Union Court.

Royal Lancaster Infirmary Ashton Community Care Centre, 01524 387402

Family & Partners Support Group 01772 621111, PO Box 72, Preston. PR5 1PH

MorEcAmBe CLINICS

Sexual Health Clinic Ormskirk General Hospital, Wigan Road, 01695 571043

Freinds of Dorothy Age Concern, Arkwright House, 01772 552 862, befreinding and support services andrewdrake@55plus.org.uk

Sexual Health Clinic Queen Victoria Centre, Thornton Rd, 01524 405 704

lancashire county council lgbt network lgbt@lancashire.gov.uk

OrMsKIrk

lancashire lgbt centre group meets 1st Wednesday of the month, prestonlgbt.co.uk

CLUB NIGHTS

THE LOLLIPOP LOUNGE Disraelis 1, 26 Church St, every Tuesday thelollipop.co.uk

GROUPS

Lesbian Connection lesbian social group meeting monthly lesbian_connection@yahoo.co.uk

edgehill university LGBT society search on facebook

PRESTON LGBT CENTRE GROUP 07936 712478 prestonlgbt.co.uk

EaTERIES

UCLAN LGBT Society Every Thurs at 8.30pm ro@cantthinkstraight.co.uk (female) or martin@cantthinkstraight.co.uk

Red Triangle Café St. James St, 01282 832319

Ormskirk & Skelmersdale LGBT Community support services west lancashire 0844 357 8062, includes support for the Romanian community, info@gayinternational.org gayinternational.org

GROUPS

aGENCIES

VIBE c/o Young Peoples Service, 07816 146 709, LGBT youth group meets Thurs evenings.

Quaker L&G Fellowship 16 Newfield Drive, Nelson, 01282 605724

Project Oscar 0800 7835345, LGBT info. & support, project-oscar@chorley-pct.nhs.uk

uclan lgbt employee network lgbtstaff@uclan.ac.uk

Local rate applies

Are you a lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender carer? Do you look after someone who is LGBT? Free local sessions can help you to help them Meet other carers and get involved. For more information, contact: Annie Emery via 0161 235 8024 or email: annie@lgf.org.uk www.lgf.org.uk

Blackpool 13 21 27

8 31 48

Mount Street 4 49 3 56 38 2 5 16 32 33 17 Yates Street 59 6

BlAckpOoL BlAckpOoL 35 North Central Hoilday Flats 29 Lord Street, 01253 621831

HOTELS High Street

20 18 47 Pleasant Street

Lord Street

Dickson Road

General Street

Promemade

BlAckpOoL

1 Anchorage 18 Withnell Road, 01253 341771

Ash Lea Hotel 76 Lord Street, 01253 628161, ashleighotel.com 2

3 Astor Hotel 83-85 Lord Street, 01253 290669 4

Athol 3 Mount St 01253 624918

5 Belvedere 77 Dickson Road, 01253 624733

Banks Street 55 23 43 57

General Street

17 58

30 11 3 10 11 Queen Street

gS tre

Kin

reet

Guyz 16 Lord Street, 01253 622488

47 SUSSEX HOTEL 14-16 Pleasant Street, 01253 627824 48 THE GYNWAY HOTEL 205 Dickson Rd, 01253 314747, gynwayblackpool.com

51 Trades Men Only 51 Lord Street, 01253 626401

22 HOTEL NEVADA 23 Lord Street, 01253 290700, gaybeds.co.uk

54 Village Hotel 14 Springfield Road, 01253 290840

23 Legends Hotel 45 Lord Street, 01253 620300

55 warwick Holiday flats 39 Bank Street, 01253 623787

Lenbrook 69 Lord St, 01253 626737

Liberty's Hotel 01253 291155

46 Charles St.

Lynmar 74 High St, 01253 290046

Mardi Gras 41 Lord St, 01253 751087

57 WILLOWFIELD GUESTHOUSE 51 Banks Street, 01253 623406, willowfield-guesthouse.co.uk 58 Windsor House 47 Dickson Road, 0870 620 7000, windsorhousehotel.net 59

Woodleigh 11 Yates St, 01253 624997

Worcester House 22 Cocker Street, 01253 620007

30 McHALL’S HOTEL 5-7 Lord Street, 01253 625661 31 Merecliff Hotel 24 Holmfield Road, 01253 356858

S. King St.

56 Westfield House 78 Lord Street, 01253 621992, westfieldhouse.co.uk

Pubs, Clubs & BaRs

MOUNT PLEASANT 75 Dickson Road, 01253 620362, mountpleasanthotel.com

Cash Machine Blackpool Tower Pedestrianised

46 Sunnyside 16 Charles Street, 01253 622983

53 VIDELLA HOTEL 78-82 Dickson Road, 01253 621201

New Bond 72 Lord St, 01253 628123

34 New Hertford 18 Lord Street, 01253 621831

FG2 Mixed 5 Dickson Road, 01253 649153, fg2online.co.uk 1

2 Funny Girls Gay Friendly 5 Dickson Rd, 01253 649154, funnygirlsonline.co.uk 3 KAOS Mixed 38-42 Queen St, 01253 318798, kaosbar.co.uk

88 Venue Indicator

45 Stratford 72-74 Dickson Road, 01253 624020

21 HOTEL Bacchus 326 Queens Promenade, 01253 350387, hotelbacchus.co.uk

Lyndale Court Hotel 01253 354033

44 Seacroft Suites 27 Lord Street, 01253 628304

52 VALENTINE HOTEL 35 Dickson Road, 01253 622775, valentinehotelblackpool.co.uk

43 Sandylands 47 Banks St, 01253 294670

20 Heatherdale Lodge 2 Pleasant Street, 1253 626268

reet

42 Rubens Hotel 39 Lord Street, 01253 622920

50 Thorncliffe 63 Dickson Road, 01253 622508

Chur ch St

PRIDE LODGE 12 High Street, 01253 314752, pridelodge.com

18 Grampian House 4 Pleasant Street, 01253 291648, info-onw@grampianhouse.com

George St.

Caunce St.

Loepold Gr.

Coronation St.

Chur ch St

Pier View 16 Banks St, 01253 624560

49 The Wilcot Hotel 80 Lord Street, 01253 621101

Lonsdale Hotel 25 Cocker Street, 01253 621628

Milbourne St.

PHOENIX 12 Cocker Street, 01253 299130, phoenixblackpool.com

17 Gabrielle’s Women Only 77 Lord Street, 01253 295565

Train Station Tram Stop Parking 40

Talbot Road 5

88 Hotel Indicator

Dixon 84 Dickson Rd, 01253 752379

FOUR SEASONS 74 Lord St, 01253 622583

Cookson Street

DERBY HOTEL, 2 Derby Rd, 01253 623708

Topping Street

34 20

Edward 27 Dickson Rd, 01253 624271

High Street

Dickson Raod

Abingdon Street

Promemade

Christines 1 Lord St, 01253 312260

Abingdon Stre

Promemade

CHaps 9 Cocker St, 01253 620541

8 26 29 16

North Pier

Camelot 80 Hornby Rd, 01253 620518

2 1

27 7

22 Springfield Road

8 Brooklyn 7 Wilton Parade, 01253 627003

Cumforth Hotel 24 Springfield Rd, 01253 626133, cumforth-hotel-blackpool.co.uk

15 33 14 54 36 12

Brene Hotel 37 Lord St, 01253 621854

Park House 81 Lord St, 01253 314571

High Street

Lord Street

Promemade

Cocker Street 60 24

Dickson Raod

37 Northern Star 9 Lord Street, 01253 628073 38

6 BLENHEIM HOTEL 75 Lord Street, 01253 623204, blenheimhotel.org.uk

9 25 10

36 NORTHERN LIGHTS HOTEL 26 Springfield Road, 01253 317016

4 Lucy's Two Mixed 68-70 Abingdon Street, 01253 753598

Ending Homophobia,

Empowering People

www.lgf.org.uk

Email: helpline@lgf.org.uk

Support the work of the LGF. Donate online today at www.lgf.org.uk

Local rate applies

5 Mardi Gras Mixed 114 Talbot Road, 01253 296262

Blackpool and cumbria CLINICS & aGENCIES 25 Body Positive BLACKPOOL 23 South King Street, 01253 292803, info@bodypositiveblackpool.org

City Learning Centre Bathhurst St, 01253 478 309, clcbusiness.com Connect 01253 751047, connectyoungpeople.co.uk 26

Connexions 2-8 Market Street, 01253 754840, connexions-direct.com 27

HIV Nursing Team 18a Queen Street, 01253 651930 28

29 NHS Drop In Centre 26 Talbot Road, 01253 655871

Pepe’s Bar Mainly Men 94 Talbot Rd, 01253 626691, pepesonline.co.uk 6

7 ROXY’S Gay Friendly 23 Queen Street, 01253 622573, roxysonline.co.uk

TABOO Mixed 69-71 Talbot Road, 01253 622573, tabooonline.co.uk 8

The Alabama Showboat Mixed 1 Cocker Sq, 01253 291155, thealabama.co.uk 9

THE DUKE OF YORK Dickson Road, 01253 625218, traditional pub and live entertainment.

Sexual Health Clinic Victoria Hospital, Whinney Heys Road, 01253 306926 SHIVER (Sexual Health HIV Education & Responses Drugline Lancashire Ltd) The Corner House, 102 Dickson Road, 01253 311 431 30

SOLICITOrS Atkinson, Cave & Stuart 45 Springfield Road, 01253 293151 31

SHoPS

HEP C support group 01253 311431, 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at SHIVER. Lancashire Lad’s group 07833 738035, 07768 956640, 07875 355390, F/M Trans support and social group meets every 2nd Tuesday of the month at SHIVER. lgbt forum 0787 355 390, council led community meeting every 2nd Tues 6.30pm. LGBT PACT 07878 355 390, police and community meetings 1st Thurs of the month. L GIRLS GROUP 07972 409551/07875 355 390 Liberty Church Stratford Hotel, 07955 597771, libertychurchblackpool.org.uk Millenium Volunteers 15 Rigby Road, 01253 476656, young people 16-24, sam.osborne@blackpool.gov.uk Ok2be 01253 754841, support service for young people up to 19 years of age, hayley.mills@blackpool.gov.uk Relaxation group 01253 311431 at SHIVER SWOSS (Sex Workers Support Services) 01253 311 431/07811 192 517, drop in on a Monday 2.00-4.00pm at SHIVER. The Renaissance Transgender Support Group meetings twice monthly, gynwayblackpool.com/ renaissance_transgender_forum.htm

aGENCIES Connexions 124 Highgate, 01539 730045

Groups

Cumbria LesbIans Network 01539 741 285, 1st Saturday of the month, clnetwork@sky.com Cumbria Societies Brewery Arts Centre, c/o Switchboard 01524 847 437

PeNRIth aGENCIES

outREACH Cumbria gaycumbria.info

The Flamingo NIGHTCLUB Mixed 44 Queen St, 01253 649151, flamingoonline.co.uk

Daran Hairdressing Gay Owned 10 Edward St, 01253 441000 darans.co.uk

WInDerMerE

The Flying Handbag Mixed 44 Queen Street, 01253 649155, flyinghandbagonline.co.uk

Transinclusion group (M2F) 3rd Tues of the month 7pm, 07875 355 390

Evolution Hair Studio Gay Owned 255 Dickson Road

Women’s gay and bi group 01253 311 431, meets monthly.

Thorncliffe Lesbian Owned Prince's Rd, 01539 444 338, thorncliffeis@tiscali.co.uk, thorncliffe-guesthouse.co.uk

EatErIES

33 Paul’s 5 General St, 01253 290928 unisex hairdresser.

CuMbrIa

HOTELS & B&B's

Perfect Fit Alterations 42 Topping Street, 01253 290156

WorKiNgToN CuMbrIa CuMbrIa CliNICS

SMILE SPA AT HELIO FITNESS Newton Drive, 01253 393909

AmBlESidE

THE GARDEN PLACE Gay Owned Cropper Road, 01253 699987

Chapel House Kirkstone Road, 01539 433 143, chapelhouse-ambleside.co.uk

AJ’s Bistro Gay Friendly 65 Topping Street, 01253 626111 12

Autumn Leaves Gay Friendly 82 Topping Street, 01253 620730 Buddies Chippy 28 Dickson Street

15 Café Latté 30-32 Dickson St, 01253 752077

GROUPS

hotEls & B&B's

Furness general hospital Dalton Lane, 01229 822 760

WE’RE HERE IF YOU NEED US!

Mandarin Cantonese Restaurant Gay Friendly 27 Clifton Street, 01253 622687

25/55 Icebreakers 07878 355 390, meets every last Tues of the month, 7pm.

Nite Bites Gay Friendly 50a Dickson Road, 01253 627976

55+ older men’s group 07878 355 390, meets every 2nd Mon of the month at 2pm and every Thurs 12.30pm.

Connexions 237-241 Dalton Road, 01229 824052

Blackpool LGBT Reading Group Blackpool Central Library, Queen Street, meetings every last Thursday of the month at 6.30pm.

Cumbria Lesbians network (CLN) 01524 858 206, clnetwork@tiscali.co.uk

The Buttery 1 Cheapside, 01253 296667 19

Truffles Steak House Gay Friendly 51-53 Topping Street, 01253 294804 20

West Coast Rock Cafe Gay Friendly 5-7 Abingdon Street, 01253 751283 21

Anton’s Cafe-bar Gay Owned 9 Park Rd, Lytham St Annes FY8 1QX 01253 724721

City Learning Centre Bathurst Av, 01253 478 309, clcbusiness.com HEAL 01253 290 052, info and help re: HIV

The Duke Of York

ACQUA SAUNA CLUB 25-26 Springfield Road, 01253 294610, acquasaunas.com

WET WET WET SAUNA 1-3 Charles Street, 01253 751 199, wetwetwetsauna.co.uk 24

Listings are continually being updated. Please email your listing to: listings@lgf.org.uk

aGENCIES GrOUPS

Furness LGBT forum c/o Wendy Phizacklea, 01229 836 426 or 07742 353 520 Jigsaw 01229 836426, LGBT 18+ social group, wendyphizacklea@youngcumbria.org.uk LGBT youth in barrow Resource Centre, 13-17 Suffolk Street, 01229 836 426 or 07742 353 520, Thursday 7pm.

cArLisLe Cumberland Infirmary 01228 814 814

23 Honeycombe Sauna 97-107 Egerton Road, 01253 752211 honeycombe.net

CliNICS

SaUNas

Steam packet inn 51 Stanley St, 01900 62186 Listings are continually being updated. Please email your listing to: listings@lgf.org.uk

18/25 Icebreakers 07878 355 390, meets every 2nd Tues of the month, 7pm.

18 SLICES SANDWICH HOUSE Gay Owned 10 King Street, 01253 751441

PUBS, CLUBS & BarS

BarRow|iN FuRNESs

Don Antonio 91 Redbank Rd, 01253 352440

Workington Infirmary Infirmary Lane, 01900 68737

aGENCIES

Traditional pub with live entertainment and karaoke. Food served noon till 9pm all day, everyday. Award winning beer garden and great prices. Cash machine on site.

The Duke Of York Dickson Road, Blackpool (50 yards from funny girls) Tel: 01253 625218

Connexions 28 Lowther Street, 01228 596272

GrOUPS

PINC 07743266317, Young people 13-25 in North Cumbria pinc-carlisle@hotmail.co.uk

Ending Homophobia,

Empowering People

www.lgf.org.uk

SaUNaS

Sweat Sauna Club Atlas House, Nelson St.

Email: helpline@lgf.org.uk

Local rate applies

KenDal CliNICS

Sexual Health Clinic Westmoorland General Hospital, Burton Rd, 01539 795 217

www.lgf.org.uk www.lgf.org.uk

Merseyside

LiVeRpOoL

LiVeRpOoL LiVeRpOoL

Ending Homophobia,

Empowering People

www.lgf.org.uk

Email: helpline@lgf.org.uk

Queer Quarter

Around FACT Tithebarn Street

Tithebarn Street

11 Poste House

23 Cumberland Street

QUEER NATION Victoria Street, 0151 236 4832 13 Superstar Boudoir

22-24 Stanley St, 0151 236 6633 14 The Lisbon Mixed

35 Victoria Street, 0151 231 6831 15 The Masquerade Mixed 10 Cumberland St, 0151 236 7786, masqueradebar.com

Club Nights

The Crown Inn Coronation Walk, 07528 156525, synergysouthport@gmail.com

CLINICs

Sexual Health Clinic Southport & Formby District General Hospital, 01704 513303

Southport Gay Infoline 01704 543612

aGENCIES & CLINICs

AIDS Helpline 0151 709 9000

Sahir House PO Box 11, 0151 708 9080, provides services to HIV positive people, their families and freinds, info@sahir.uk.com Sexual Health Clinic Royal Liverpool Hospital, Prescot St, 0151 706 2620 17 The Armistead Project 1 Stanley St,

0870 9908996, armisteadcentre.co.uk

SauNas LIVERPOOL Sauna 1 Bank Hall Street, Kirkdale, 0151 944 2240

Shops

OUR STORY LIVERPOOL 07877 273913, LGBT History community project. Parents & Carers Group 0870 9908996

96 Bold Sreet, 0151 708 7270, newsfromnowhere.co.uk

nice 'n' naughty 16 Colquitt Street

GRoups BETHLEHEM COMMUNITY CHURCH Serving LGBT Christians across Merseyside, bethlehemcommunitychurch.org.uk GAY & LESBIAN CHRISTIANS Bold Street, 0151 547 3562, christian@portnahaven.fsnet.co.uk

Men’s Group 0870 9908996

St|HELens PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Flex II Tolver St, 01744 758 439

CLUB NIGHT

WORK Bridge Street, every Wednesday.

Queer Notions 0151 227 9977, provides information and support at the Armistead Project queernotions@hotmail. com

CLINICs

QUEST LGBT CATHOLICS 07983 021 589, 2nd Saturday of month, liverpool@questgaycatholic.org.uk

tHE|wIrRaL

SPIRIT LEVEL 0151 227 1893, Transgender support group. Uni’ Guild of Students LGBT 160 Mount Pleasant, 0151 794 4165, liverpoollgbt@yahoo.co.uk Young Gay Sefton 0151 330 5841

18 NEWS FROM NOWHERE Bookshop

Listings are continually being updated. Please email your listing to: listings@lgf.org.uk 42

superstar boudoir 241 Lord Street

TRAVEL INN METRO Vernon St, 0870 238 3325

FEDERATION LIVERPOOL Monthly gay night, clubfederation.com

CAFE TABAC Gay Owned 126 Bold Street, 0151 709 3735

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Merseyside L&G Community Forum 07970 680483, newsfromnowhere.org.uk

nice 'n' naughty 85 Seel Street

EatErIES

Hope PrideDerwent House, Taggart Ave, Childwall, 0151 291365, lgbtofficer@hope.ac.uk

SoutHpOrT

GROUPS

Gays Out with Learning Difficulties (GOLD) 0870 9908996

Piccadilly Train Station

Liverpool Students Union LGBT Society 0151 231 4947

BROKEN BISCUITS Monthly at Jupiters Bar

GIRLS GO DOWN Monthly lesbian night, myspace.com/girlsgodown

Gay Youth ‘r’ OUT (GYRO) 36 Bolton St, 0151 203 0824, LGB youth 16-25, gyro.org.uk

Bold Street

10 PINK 4-6 Victoria St, 0151 255 0502

Bold Street

Navy Bar 27-29 Stanley Street, 0151 231 1456 9

Gay Professional Dining Club 0151 2807842, 2nd Sat of month, igdc@talk21.com

Berry Street Roscoe Lane

Modo Gay Friendly Concert Square

Back Berry Stre

The Feathers 119-125 Mount Pleasant St, 0151 709 9655, feathers.uk.com

Roscoe Place

Culquitt Street Wood Street

Jupiters 10 Hackins Hey, off Dale Street, 0151 227 5265

Wood Street

G Bar Mixed Eberle Street, 0151 258 1230, g-bar.com 6

HotEls

20 Culquitt Street

London Road

Garlands Mixed 8-10 Eberle Street, 0151 709 9586, garlandsonline.co.uk

Seel Street

0151 707 9933, themonro.com

Fleet Street

16 THE MONRO Gastropub 92-94 Duke St,

Seel Street

Puschka Gay Owned 16 Rodney St, 0151 708 8698 puschka.co.uk

Parr Street

0151 709 6611, osqa-restaurant.co.uk

Duke Street

Mathew StreetOldham Square, OSQA’S

Back Culquitt Stre

Victoria Street

ESPRESSO PLUS COFFEE Bar & Bistro 173 Rose Lane, Mossley Hill, 0151 724 6161

Slater Street

FACT

Victoria Street

DESTINATION LIVERPOOL Temple St, off Victoria St, club-destination.co.uk

Duke Street

Sir Thomas Street

9 13

Cumberland Street

Curzon Club Mixed Temple Lane, 0151 236 5160, curzonliverpool.co.uk 3

Stanley Street

2 CAFE TABAC Gay Owned 126 Bold Street, 0151 709 3735

Temple Street

3345 Mixed 33-45 Parr St, 0151 708 6345, 3345parrst.com 1

Temple Lane

PUBS, CLUBS & Bars

Princes Street

Train Station Parking Cash Machine Pedestrianised

North John Street

88 Listing Indicator

Davies Street

Concert Street

Suffolk Street

Dale Street

Sweeting Street

Cunliffe St. Hockenhall All.

Vernon Street

Eberle Street

Moorfields

Tempest Hey

Hackins Hey

Exchange Street East

Local rate applies

SpoRts Groups Gay Kick Boxing Armistead Centre, Wednesday Evenings 7-8pm, info@armisteadcentre.co.uk GAY OUTDOOR GROUP 07855 197607 goctranspennine.org.uk MERSEY MARAUDERS part of the Gay Football Supporters Network practice weekly, mmfootball.co.uk

WEBSITES GAYLIVERPOOL.COM Website of Gay Liverpool, gayliverpool.com Liverpool Gay Quarter liverpoolgayquarter.com

Support the work of the LGF. Donate online today at www.lgf.org.uk

Sexual Health Clinic St Helens Hospital, Marshall Cross Rd, 01744 458383, sthk.nhs.uk

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Peggy Gladflys 93 Victoria Road, New Brighton

CLINICs

Sexual Health Clinic Arrowe Park Road, 0151 604 7339

SaUNas

Dolphin Sauna 129 Mount Road, New Brighton, 0151 630 1516, dolphinsauna.co.uk

aGENCIES

Terrence Higgins Trust 5 Bridge Street, Birkenhead, 0151 666 9890, HIV and sexual health advice and support, info.wirral@tht.org.uk tht.org.uk WORK IT OUT Wirral Brook, 14 Whetstone Ln, Birkenhead, 0151 670 0177, group for 14-18 year olds, info@wirralbrook.org.uk outreach@wirralbrook.org.uk

GROUPS

Freedom Trans Youth Foundation, freedom@freedom.zzn.com freedom.btik.com

cheshire staffs and isle of man Gay Wirral Terrence Higgins Trust, 5 Bridge St, for all Wirral’s LGBT Community: Tea Time Special - every Friday, 4.30 to 6.30pm, gaywirral@hotmail.co.uk TransWirral 90-92 Chester St, 07905 121656, for TS/Intersex, transwirral.btik.com WIRRAL DIVAS 0151 666 9890, weekly lesbian and bisexual women’s group. WIRRAL TRANSISTER 0151 650 6939, for TV/CD. work it out 0151 670 0177, 14-18 support group Thurs 6.30-8.30pm workitoutatbrook.org.uk utopia (Ellesmere Port) Whitby Rd, Ellesmere Port, 0151 348 5628, LGB youth meets every Tues 6.30-9, eport@utopialgb.org.uk utopia (Neston) Burton Rd, Neston, 0151 348 5621, LGB youth meets every Weds 4-6pm, neston@utopialgb.org.uk

ChESHire

ChESHire ChESHire

GROUPS

men’s Group 01270 653 156, outrite.org

CheStER

GROUPS

CORE 01270 653 156, gay and bi men’s group.

GROUPS

Gay & Lesbian Youth Support Services (GLYSS) 07747 473 829, every Wed/Thurs 6.30-9.30pm and alternate Sat. freewebs.com/glyss

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

OUTRITE groups 01270 653156, support and social groups, outrite.org

Liverpool Arms Northgate Street, 01244 314 807

NOrtHWicH

FLUID (Freedon to Love Ur IDentity) 07747 473 829

CLINICs

Cheshire Rainbow 01606 867 681, LGBT group, cheshirerainbow@btinternet.com

trans warrington 01925 241904, transwarrington@yahoo.co.uk transwarrington.webs.com

aGENCIES

UTOPIA 01606 350 750, LGB youth group meets every Weds 6.45-9.15pm, northwich@utopialgb.org.uk

Bar 6T9 01244 313 608

Sexual Health Clinic Chester Hospital, Liverpool Road, 01244 363 091

Health Development Team (LGBT) 01244 650534 or 07747 631021

GROUPS

CHESTER lgbt BOOK GROUP 07818 021 947, 2nd Monday of the month at 7.30pm at the Bear & Billet pub, Lower Bridge Street, alispad@aol.com Chester Icebreakers 01244 682574, Quaker House, Union Walk, Frodsham St.

GROUPS

SaUNaS

StaFfOrdSHIRE

PUBS, CLUBS & BarS

THE Club 14 Hillcrest St, 01782 201829

Sauna Sauna Winnington Lane, 01606 784881, sauna-sauna.info

The Three Tuns 9 Bucknall New Road, 01782 769293

RunCoRN

GROUPS

CLINIC

Sexual Health Halton General Hospital, 01928 753217

EaTERIES

South Staffs MESMEN Project 01543 411413, PO Box 3919, Lichfield, Married Men’s group, TV/TS group and social groups. SPACE 01543 419002, LGBT Youth Group (16-21), youth@mesmen.co.uk

Dinin’ Divas womens dining group dinindivas@yahoo.com

The Canalside Bar & Restaurant 01928 580 669, 45-47 Canal Street.

Mersey & Dee Women Social group, madw@merseymail.com

WARringToN

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Staffordshire Buddies PO Box 474, Stoke on Trent, 01782 201251

KANDI BAR thekandibar.co.uk

IsLe|oF|MaN

CLINICs

Sole Sisters 07917 533104 or 07921 222101, Womens walking group.

White Hart Sankey Street, 01925 241994

aGENCIES

UTOPIA 01244 602817, LGB youth group meets every Weds 7.30-9pm, chester@utopialgb.org.uk

Sexual Health Clinic Lovely Lane, 01925 662476

MACcLeSfIelD

aGENCIES

CRewE

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

The Park 42 Wistaston Rd, 07888 805903, theparkfunpub.co.uk Sexual Health Clinic Leighton Hospital, Middlewich Rd, 01270 612255

BP Cheshire & North Wales PO Box 321, 01270 653 150 outrite 01270 653 156, social and support groups, counselling, condoms and lube by post, outrite.org

CLINICs

Sexual Health Clinic Macclesfield District General Hospital, Victoria Road, 01625 264116

CLINIC

1806 Group 11 Palmyra Square South, 01925 241994, initiative for sexual health. Gay Healthy Alliance Project PO Box 539, 01925 631101

HOTELS

DEVONIAN HOTEL Gay Friendly 4 Sherwood Terrace, Douglas, 01624 674676, thedevonian.co.uk PITCARN HOTEL Gay Friendly 2 Church Road, Douglas, 01624 674771

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

TRAFALGER PUBLIC HOUSE Gay Friendly South Quay, Douglas, 01624 618131

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! N I T GE

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UK. Rachael Brown

can reinvent you n not people’s team name but ofte es are nam team Our e’! nam l their ‘rea printed on our kit.

d Sui – Cider: We’ve change team our Facebook names to our . We have names! Most people do this by Der er Roll the in nds frie lots of ntry and community across the cou our team we all know each other by names. our MS’isle: I love the fact that pletely com felt I ing. com wel so is club y. awa ight stra pted at ease and acce er Derby It’s like a family and the Roll of each community is so supportive other too. ? How are names chosen t for eren diff It’s RY: Feral fAI it’s a play everyone. For some people to reflect on words or it’s something have to es nam All . ality their person e sure be registered online to mak e. It’s really nobody else has the nam e roller girl urit favo r you is at cool. Wh name? gh question. Sui – Cider: That’s a tou called, Beyon a eric Am There is a player in following. Slay. She has a bit of a cult a punk There seems to be quite with aesthetic to roller derby, do ss, dre the and es the nam ant in you think this is import might not attracting players who in sport? ted res inte be rily ordina er Derby Sui-Cider: Definitely. Roll and is unique as it brings punk sport. I was alternative together with school so at rt spo in ed never interest rt where it’s great that there is a spo express you can be an individual and able fort com a h suc yourself. It’s bers from environment, we have mem life. of k wal ry eve need to Feral FAIRY: You don’t . Most play to tic fana ess fitn a be played of our members had never ls are Roller Derby before. All leve to commit e hav ’t don You e. com wel

n, give it a to anything, just come dow k. thin you t wha see and go Roller Derby is becoming the UK, increasingly popular in e next lod exp l wil it k do you thin the film year with the release of Whip It? is due Feral Fairy: Yes. The film and it for release early next year ess of will certainly create awaren ourage enc ly eful hop and the sport are people to give it a try. We the Odeon planning to have a stall at we can so d ase rele is It ip when Wh y City spread the word about Rain Roller Girls. rt, but It’s a relatively new spo the future what are you hopes for …a UK the in by der ler of rol ? national league maybe ckly. Every Ms’Isle: It’s growing qui of a new r hea we s nth mo of couple ments are rna Tou ed. team being form uently happening much more freq a was re the fact In . too now in July tournament at Earls Court Germany this year and teams from ing more came. It’s definitely becom ional team nat a sure I’m . mainstream t year is a real possibility in the nex ’ve read you t wha like you if So so. or ut the abo re mo out find and want to

onto: Rainy City Roller Girls log co.uk

rcrg.

n they train Details of where and whe draising fun with g alon can be found on the events, more information involved. sport and how you can get have you go, a it give I urge you to I met were nothing to lose. The girls ad the high off life and keen to spre s! ber mem love to new

Pictures by Sarah Quinn

s from Roller Derby originate on ed bas it’s America and ting formation roller ska Points ck. tra l ova an d aroun n tai cer en wh are scored tion. players lap the opposi

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Words by Rachel Brown with research and special thanks to Lindsay England

While the FA, and the sports world in general, have taken great measures to try and eradicate racism in sport, stamping out homophobia has been left behind.

Following the DID YOU KNOW? disgusting According to a Stonewall report, in a homophobic survey by 2,000 fans, 70% of them had chanting by Spurs heard anti-gay abuse in football grounds in the past five years. fans directed at Sol Campbell Drive Time presenters Homophobic comments are prevalent Adrian Durham among supporters, players and indeed and Ian Wright (again on Talk Sport), commentators, yet by and large these discussed the resulting fan arrests, and Being considered gay in football is not comments aren’t questioned and the homophobia in sport. only seen as the most hideous insult perpetrators aren’t reprimanded. but it’s defamatory also. To be ‘tarnished’ Adrian Durham stated that, “it was with any gay insinuations is career Gay hate is seen as fair game and nothing more than indecent chanting.” threatening as it goes against the macho harmless. Common chants at football He then went on to say, “It serves Sol image of the sport. grounds across the country include, Campbell right, he shouldn’t have gone “We can see you holding hands”,“Does to Arsenal.” And, “Don’t sanitize the In September 09’ the Chairman of the your boyfriend know you’re here?”,“You game, which is what would happen if Football Association - Lord Triesman poof”, and “Get up you fag”. All this is the chants made at Sol Campbell are vowed to step up the FA’s campaign to just considered light hearted banter acted on and fans are banned and fined.” give homophobia the red card, hopefully at a game when in fact it’s undeniable this renewed commitment will set an homophobia. Durham’s comments are another example to those commentating on the example of a high profile commentator game, that homophobia is no laughing The media is just as guilty…their trivialising homophobia and seeing it ‘as matter. opinions reach a wide and much just a bit of fun. Ian Wright went on to influenced audience. Players have been say, “There’s nothing wrong with being ridiculed in the tabloid press for alleged taken the Mickey out of…anything homosexual behaviour. goes inside a football ground, except for racism as that could cause a riot!” The mission of the GFSN is to promote DID YOU KNOW? The last comment is the support and participation of gay The late Justin Fashanu was the first (and complete hypocrisy. men and women in football. The GFSN remains the only) professional footballer While racism is deemed was formed in 1989, and has grown from in England to publicly come out. by the footballing strength to strength. Learn more about world as unacceptable, the GFSN and find out how you can get homophobic involved by visiting: gfsn.org.uk comments are seen as fair game and just ‘mickey taking’. Radio broadcast channel Talk Sport are Worryingly these views are shared by regular homophobic offenders. Prior to many people in the footballing world. commentator John Gaunt being relieved of duties at the station for calling a local The impact these comments councilor ‘Hitler’ live an air he was often have on the gay making anti-gay remarks. For example, community can’t be “a gay marriage is not a REAL marriage!”, underestimated. With “It’s not normal to be homosexual!”, no ‘out’ gay footballers and “I want to watch a proper film not and a seemingly Brokeback Mountain!” intolerant community it’s a hostile environment for a gay or bisexual footballer to be in.

GAY FOOTBALL SUPPORTERS NETWORK

There’s nothing wrong with being taken the Mickey out of…anything goes inside a football ground, except for racism as that could cause a riot!” - Ian Wright

TAKING THE MIC!

GET IN ! Are commentators reinforcing homophobia in football?

www.lgf.org.uk

Great Manchester Run 2010

GET IN !

s a e d i g n i t r o p S October Launch for LGBT

MAY 2010

end Run for Team LGF and help a. obi homoph for Contact: simon@lgf.org.uk . tion rma info re mo

ards

Community Sports Aw

e Games ched in October on the Prid T Community Sports are laun y and Pride LGB es pan Gam Com e nt Prid me r’s elop Yea Dev This year by the LGBT Sports last hed . This year, blis ion esta s, reg ard the ss Aw website. The in LGBT Sport acro of talent and commitment land. Eng st We th Nor of le who Sports, celebrate the wealth er the Greater Manchester, to cov ss the region. the awards extend beyond for nominations from acro ing hop is rts Spo FEB. e Prid of Lou Englefield, Director 18TH the LGBT sports of st mo t tha ept acc we “Whilst 2010 are based in Manchester, groups in the North West groups and individuals e lud exc to t wan ’t don we caster” from, say Liverpool or Lan

1st-8th OCT.

Gay City Strollers

Sports Awards are Winners of the Community at the Pride Games rds awa ir presented with the ly the Ramada Jarvis Piccadil Dinner on February 18 at are each given the s ner win and ster che Hotel in Man the LGBT sports group of opportunity to nominate e. Tickets for the Dinner their choice for a £150 priz Pride Games website the from le will also be availab g s.or me from November. pridega

City Centre, for all Walk around Manchester Thursday 1st and 8th on 0pm -8.3 pm abilities 6.30 , email: LGF the at October. Meet here more information. for k g.u f.or @lg rlow .ba rachel

Pride Games 2010

Union club Village Spartans Rugby

ic ngth and now have a fantast to go from strength to stre e tinu con s ty rtan uali Spa sex ge of less Manchester’s Villa who wants to play, regard m in is to bring rugby to any guy maybe even play for the tea and new look website! Their aim ple peo new et me fit, p kee s home to rtan way Spa ay ge gre a Villa or playing ability. It’s Wednesday from 7pm at the nged and ready training takes place every cha ek get -we to e Mid tim ns! ugh itio eno pet com ve with ground in Sale. Please arri unique rugby pitches. The Spartans is a for a prompt start on the for people who might by rug to ess acc w allo to club which was set up would not be rt, so please never feel you not otherwise play the spo welcome to come and try.

uded Squash, Athletics, This years Pride Games incl traditional Bell-Boat Football, Swimming and the dates are already The . ow) bel Regatta (pictured nt. Check out the Pride confirmed for the 2010 eve s.org and keep checking me ega prid Games website get involved in 2010! can you outnorthwest on how

6th-13th JUNE '10

k-suit. If you don’t as shorts & t-shirt or a trac Wear sports clothing such ing because com off ts then don’t be put have any rugby/football boo ions. We sess few first r you to s ner ring trai to join! you are perfectly fine wea ided dec you if on r some boots late would recommend getting

TRAINING EVERY WEDNESDAY

90 mins, finishing Training usually lasts around ck out the spartans Che . 9pm between 8:30pm and .uk now! website: villagespartans.co

outdoorlads

r all) Orca Divers (suitable fo

beginners to all ‘students’ from nervous excellent diving tuition to ng first aid), have vidi ing pro lud on (inc sed rses focu cou t Orca Divers are tography, offer all the righ pho r ate erw und in ise instructors. They special abroad. ng trips within the UK and LEARN a fantastic club and take divi n) where rlto Cho in ABOUT ked shop (based The club also have a well stoc t righ PHOTOGRAPHY ice and help you choose the staff are happy to offer adv UNDERWATER northwest’s Simon Pearson out . you suit to rses cou equipment and r. “At first, being so yea this ier earl nce erie tried out the diving exp I would nervous and wondering how scared of water I was very rs have dive a Orc . me biggest fear for breath under water was the and it was a this all with help to als ion an excellent team of profess zing.” Visit ne should try it - it was ama fantastic experience. Everyo them on for rch adivers.com or sea TRAINING the groups website now: orc SESSIONS k. faceboo RLY REGULA

e 2010

The Gay Games - Cologn

take place in Cologne ural festival in the world will The biggest sports and cult s from more than 70 0. Some 12,000 participant from July 31 to August 7, 201 0 and celebrate the 201 e ogn Col the Gay Games VIII countries will converge for t. inclusion and personal bes principles of participation, r you are heterosexual or ryone – regardless of whethe l the invitation is open to eve And lity, ethnic heritage, politica it!” iona of t nat par ion, “Be is relig tto of The mo ologne.de or transsexual, and regardless r es-c nde gam sge to go tran ale, now fem lved e, homosexual, mal sical condition. Get invo sical capabilities, age or phy convictions, athletic skills, phy

JULY 31 - AUG 7 2010

Support the work of the LGF. Donate online today at www.lgf.org.uk

up, each month As an outdoor pursuits gro vities: from acti of ge ran e wid a they run ng and alki hillw , ing camping, hostell re extreme mo the to g, bin clim oor ind ice climbing, activities like scrambling, and many ng technical mountain biki all abilities for ing eth som re’s The more. site, web ir the t Visi at outdoorlads. get involved! and now m s.co rlad doo out

ting Tell us about your spor group for outnorthwest

to covering outnorthwest is committed organisations in and ups gro LGB for rt spo beyond. Contact the North West region and e a group or hav simon@lgf.org.uk if you and we might up ing com nt eve g rtin LGB spo want to also We est. thw publish it in outnor you may have. ies stor al son per ut abo r hea