outnorthwest issue 106

FOR OVER 16’s ONLY!

NEWS • COMMENT • HEALTH • SPORT • LISTINGS Your Magazine for Life

Published by

Ending Homophobia,

Empowering People

OUTNORTHWEST ISSUE 106 OCT-NOV 2011 FREE!

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

LIVERPOOL’S

WORLD CLASS

LGBT ARTS FESTIVAL IS BACK!

www.lgf.org.uk

Registered Charity No.1070904

EN LISTW NO !

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW!

JOHN AMAECHI “I came out when I knew I could make a difference.”

PLUS! COMING OUT: THE DO’S AND DON’TS!

OUTNORTHWEST EDITOR’S LETTER OCT-NOV 2011

I’M COMING OUT This issue of outnorthwest concerns itself with coming out.

It’s something we all have to do at some point in our lives - even if it’s only to ourselves.

We’ve all got things we’d probably like to keep to ourselves, the kind of things that nobody else really needs to know about (Me? I’ve seen every episode of Blake’s Seven about a dozen times. But that’s not for here.) And that’s fine. But sometimes for the sake of our wellbeing and our sanity, we all have to ‘come out’ about our sexuality. It doesn’t have to be a grand announcement, and it may only be coming to terms with our sexuality for ourselves. But the process of coming out is an ongoing one. I’ve lost count of the amount of time I’ve had to declare my sexuality...

To family, to friends, to work colleagues (thankfully not such a big issue where I work!), in interview situations, booking hotel rooms... the list is endless.

The process of coming out is a hugely personal one, and everyone has their own story and their own experiences.

In this issue of outnorthwest, we’ve spoken to a number of people about how and why they chose to come out.

We’ve also got an invaluable guide to the do’s and don’t of coming out (never at the Christmas dinner table!).

We’re still keen to hear your coming out stories, and we’re particularly keen to hear from women, so please drop us an e-mail and we’ll follow it up in our next issue.

Elsewhere, we’re very proud to be a media sponsor once again for Liverpool’s fantastic LGBT arts festival, Homotopia. The line-up this year is outstanding, so please do make sure you sample what is a truly world-class event!

LGF ONLINE

WHAT THE HELL IS A QR CODE?

SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION

Ending Homophobia,

Empowering People

www.lgf.org.uk

Registered Charity No.1070904

outnorthwest is published every two months by The Lesbian & Gay Foundation, Number 5, Richmond Street, MANCHESTER. M1 3HF. General Enquiries: 0845 3 30 30 30 E-mail: grahame.robertson@lgf.org.uk

EDITORIAL TEAM EDITOR & LAYOUT Grahame Robertson LAYOUT Mark Eastwood NEWS EDITOR Joanne Dunning MEN’S HEALTH EDITOR Peter Boyle WEB EDITOR Marc Robinson LISTINGS EDITOR Mark Eastwood DISTRIBUTION Kate Hardy CONTRIBUTORS Joanne Dunning; Darren Knight; Martin Cooper; Sarah Quinn; Patrick Ettenes; Terence Liboma; George House Trust; Gaydio; Annie Emery; Andrew Gilliver; Peter Boyle; Paul Fairweather; Colin Armstead; Adam Winter;Marc Robinson; Sara Ashworth.

SPECIAL THANKS Gaydio; Gary Everett; Homotopia; Andrew Neale; Adrian Trett; James Asser; Matthew Sephton; Stephen Littlewood; Manbears; Simon and Tom; John Amaechi; Jen Brister; Zoe Lyons; Suzi Ruffell; Jacob Sibley; the guys at Pants!

You’ve probably seen these weird boxes in daily newspapers, posters, packaging and the like, but what ADVERTISING exactly are they? Put simply, they’re shortcuts to websites, For information on advertising in outnorthwest, phone numbers, text messages... you name it. If you’ve got contact us on 0845 3 30 30 30. one of them fancy iPhones we’ve found Red Laser is the best Or e-mail grahame.robertson@lgf.org.uk app to scan QR codes. It’s free in the App Store. If you’ve got an Android handset, download Barcode Scanner from the Marketplace. Other handsets are also capable of scanning QR codes. You’ll find these codes dotted around ONW, and TO toDIAL THIS they’ll give you loads more info and background related NUMBER NOW the articles in this issue. Give it a go! We’re so on message!

SCAN

IF YOU DO ONE THING THIS WEEK FILL OUT OUR ‘I EXIST!’ SURVEY! It only takes 15 minutes to complete (and you win an iPad2, holiday and shopping vouchers), but the answers you give will be used to sustain and improve services for LGB people. It is vitally important that as LGB people we stand up for our needs and experiences, and have them acknowledged by decision makers. To find out more, and complete the survey, visit www.lgf.org.uk/iexist today.

INSIDE OUT REGULARS

06 ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! How you can help stop the spread of homophobia in our schools with one simple act!

08 NEWS & OPINION Who won your Homo Hero Awards? Find out here! Plus all the latest LGBT developments.

16 VILLAGE PEOPLE Halloween, iPhone apps and new venues!

18 UP YOUR WAY What’s going on in your region.

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38 LISTINGS Every LGB&T service in the north west.

JOHN AMAECHI

FEATURES

30 HOMOTOPIA RETURNS! Liverpoo’s world-class LGBT arts festival returns and we’ve got the highlights!

24 JOHN AMAECHI John talks exclusively to outnorthwest about why he decided to come out.

32 OUTSPOKEN! FUNNY GIRLS In a brand new feature we talk to three female comedians about their lives.

08

HOMO HERO AWARD WINNERS!

32

WELLBEING

FUNNY GIRLS!

20 GEORGE HOUSE TRUST The latest developments from GHT. 23 COME OUT! COME OUT! We speak to two guys about their coming out stories. Including coming out as bisexual.

26 DO’S & DON’TS! Our indispensible guide to Coming Out! 28 DO IT! Get involved with our year-long LGBT skills academy!

34 GAY MEN’S HEALTH The importance of testing.

44 SPORT & FITNESS All the latest news and events from Pride Sports.

06

HAVE YOU BOUGHT A SCHOOLS HOMOTOPIA! Homophobia PACK? ACTION against

www.lgf.org.uk/enough

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.

30

www.lgf.org.uk/enough

TAKING ACTION HOW YOU ARE TAKING ACTION AGAINST HOMOPHOBIA

VOTE LGF AND HELP PREVENT SCHOOL

BULLYING!

We’re really excited that the Enough is Enough! campaign’s Safer School Packs have been chosen as a NatWest Community Force project...now all we need is for you to vote for us!

With just the press of a few buttons you could help us win enough votes – to provide 300 Safer Schools Packs. The packs help schools challenge homophobic bullying and support young, lesbian, gay and bisexual people. Two thirds of young lesbian, gay and bisexual people report being bullied and

SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION

Scan here NOW to vote for LGF!

Homophobia ACTION against

we want this to change! You can help make that change by voting for our Safer Schools Packs. You can find out more and vote for us by visiting: http://communityforce.natwest. com/project/3277

project you can choose to raise awareness of it and sign up to be a volunteer. All young people – regardless of sexual orientation – have the right to learn and achieve in a safe and welcoming environment.

Voting is open now and closes on Sunday 23rd October. So what are you waiting for?

Log on and make your vote count!

We need as many votes as possible and will be publicising the vote throughout October, so look out for web, twitter and facebook updates.

The NatWest CommunityForce initiative provides financial assistance to local projects and charities, but also empowers communities to get involved with causes close to their hearts. As well as voting for a

If you’d also like to send a Safer Schools Pack to a school of your choice, you can donate to the campaign at www.lgf.org.uk/schoolspack

www.lgf.org.uk/enough Have you checked out our hard-hitting Enough Is Enough campaign video? It stars Corrie’s Antony Cotton, and megastar Sir Ian McKellen...

SCAN TO WATCH THE

VIDEO NOW

LIKE US!

Search for ‘Enough Is Enough! Action Against Homophobia’ on Facebook.

“All young people regardless - have the right to learn and achieve in a safe and welcoming environment.”

TAKING

ACTION! Lee Wicks from Friends and Supporters of Furness LGBT Community got in touch with Enough is Enough! to highlight why our Safer Schools Packs and other anti-homophobia projects are so important in supporting lesbian, gay and bisexual youth.

Lee feels that young LGB people in Cumbria and other rural areas are “isolated” and are vulnerable to homophobia.

“We’ve had two cases this year where young gay people or those perceived to be have taken their own lives. One, a teenage girl, had been consistently intimidated; she and her friends had been shot at with a BB gun in Barrow town centre, they were afraid to put a light on in their own flat.”

A 20 year old man then took his own life. These suicides happened within 10 weeks of each other.

Lee feels that education and getting into schools is the key to challenging homophobia.

Vote to make schools safer http://communityforce.natwest.com/ project/3277

TWEET US!

Follow us and get involved in the conversation on Twitter, @lgfoundation

OPINION PAUL FAIRWEATHER

...on ageing gracefully Stonewall has produced an important piece of research about the needs of older lesbians and gay men.

Providing us with more detailed information about their needs and thoughts.

For example the report says that 40% of gay and bisexual men over 55 are single compared with15% of heterosexual men. It is also clear from the report that some older gay people are worried about what will happen to them as they age. Although this is clearly true of many people given the ageism of the society in which we are all living.

To me what the report doesn’t seem to cover is the role that friends often play in our lives which can be as important as the roles that our families can play. And is there an underlying assumption that being single is automatically worse and will result in isolation?

I can think of some older couples who are isolated and unhappy and clinging to each other out of habit and desperation rather than love and devotion. I know some single older lesbians and gay men who are busy and contented with new interests and friends enjoying their lives to the full.

I was speaking to a friend of mine in his mid 70s recently who was recounting a series of wild sexual adventures with great glee whilst complaining about the lack of stamina of mainly younger guys who were pursuing him. We gain in confidence and experience as we age and this includes managing sex and relationships. There is no accounting for taste is often used as a negative phrase but merely reflects the huge

variety of attraction out there in the world. What is clearly the case is that fewer gay people, especially men, have children and the role they often play in supporting their parents will not be there for many of us.

So start collecting some younger friends now if you don’t already have them and make sure they know supporting you as you age will be one of the rewarding experiences of their lives .It is always difficult to get the balance right between identifying unmet needs and ensuring that we can access all the services we are entitled do and presenting a picture of the world based on the experiences of by definition a limited number of people.

What strikes me, as I get older, is how different our expectations and experiences of the world are. How some people seem to need so little to be content and others strive after new experiences on a daily basis. Perhaps our sexuality is a smaller part of the picture than we sometimes think. As you become more relaxed about who you are and as society changes maybe attaching our concerns and worries to our sexuality isn’t the most appropriate or helpful thing to do. It can become a kind of shorthand to explain a far more complex picture and stop us thinking about the very specific things in our lives that we need for us because of who we are – not because of who we sleep with.

What is important is to do all we can to ensure that the support systems designed to look after us as we get older whether social housing or medical care recognise and respect our sexuality and relationships. For we will be the first generation who have been out and open and used to demanding our rights.

Paul Fairweather www.lgf.org.uk OUTNORTHWEST 07

AGENDA

IN DEPTH NEWS, COMMENT AND ANALYSIS

OCT-NOV 2011

HOMO HEROES Sir Ian McKellen scoops top award and Waterloo Road actress – Heather Peace - makes guest appearance.

“These awards are about celebrating people in our every day lives who have made a significant contribution to supporting either you or people you care about” Paul Martin oBE chief executive the lesbian & Gay Foundation

Photos: Sarah Quinn

Councillor Mary Murphy accepts a Lifetime Achievement Award from Paul Fairweather (left) and LGF Chair David McGovern (right)

A number of community leaders were honoured at the Lesbian & Gay Foundation’s inaugural Homo Hero Awards Ceremony at Manchester’s Mint Hotel – for their work for and on behalf of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people and communities.

The ceremony was hosted by Paul Martin OBE, Chief Executive of the Lesbian and Gay Foundation, and eight awards were given out in total.

Star of screen and stage Sir Ian McKellen was awarded lesbian, gay or bisexual Role Model of the Year. While Waterloo Road and Lip Service star Heather Peace was on hand

to collect Manchester Pride Festival Director Jackie Crozier’s Community Champion of the Year Award.

Homo Hero Volunteer of the Year went to Daniel Burford of OutdoorLads, despite stiff competition from Jim Vann (Chair of George House Trust) and bi-campaigner Natalya Dell. The Co-operative Respect Network was named Business of the Year, Greater Manchester Police won Public Sector Partner of the Year and collected their award from Tony Lloyd MP, and Taurus were crowned LGBT Venue of the Year.

LGBT homeless youth charity Albert Kennedy Trust won Community Group or organisation of the Year. Manchester City Councillor Mary Murphy was also awarded the lifetime achievement award. The Lesbian & Gay Foundation’s Chief Executive, Paul Martin OBE

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

said, “Congratulations to tonight’s winners and nominees. The awards are really important because they are nominated and voted for by the people, and they recognise the valuable contribution to society made by or on behalf of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people.” He continued, “They are about celebrating people in our everyday lives who have made a significant contribution to supporting either you or people you care about.”

Scan here NOW to find out more about your Homo Hero winners and nominees.

SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION

AGENDA OCT-NOV 2011 CONTACT US: outnorthwest, The Lesbian & Gay Foundation, Number 5, Richmond Street, Manchester M1 3HF EMAIL: joanne.dunning@lgf.org.uk TWITTER: @lgfoundation CALL: 0845 3 30 30 30

LGF HOMO HERO AWARDS 2011

IN PICTURES COMMUNITY GROUP/ORGANISATION OF THE YEAR Albert Kennedy Trust

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Daniel Burford - Outdoor Lads

PUBLIC SECTOR PARTNER OF THE YEAR Greater Manchester Police

LGB&T VENUE OF THE YEAR Taurus

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR The Co-operative Respect Network

COMMUNITY CHAMPION OF THE YEAR Jackie Crozier (Heather Peace accepted award)

LGB ROLE MODEL OF THE YEAR Sir Ian McKellen

THE NOMINEES

YOU ARE ALL OUR HOMO HEROES! lesbian, gay or bisexual role model of the year Nominees: Marcus Morgan, Sam Whalley, and Sir Ian McKellen Winner: Sir Ian McKellen • Community group or organisation of the year Nominees: Bi Community News, OutdoorLads, and Albert Kennedy Trust Winner: Albert Kennedy Trust • Volunteer of the year Nominees: Jim Vann, Daniel Burford, and Natasha Dell Winner: Daniel Burford • Public Sector Partner of the year Nominees: Greater Manchester Police, NHS North West, and NHS Manchester Winner: Greater Manchester Police • LGB&T venue of the Year Award Nominees: Taurus, The Molly House, Eagle Winner: Taurus • Business of the year Nominees: The Co-operative ñ Respect Network, Serenity Security Solutions, and Barclays Bank Spectrum Network Winner: The Co-operative Respect Network • Community Champion of the year Nominees: Daniel Burford (OutdoorLads), Jen Yockney (Biphoria), and Jackie Crozier (Manchester Pride) Winner: Jackie Crozier • Lifetime Achievement Award Councillor Mary Murphy www.lgf.org.uk OUTNORTHWEST 09

AGENDA OCT-NOV 2011 YOUTH SERVICES

Cuts to funding are having a devastating effect on many groups. Youth groups have been particularly badly affected.

Campaigners in Preston have decided to raise awareness of the importance of youth groups... by getting on their bikes, straight to the seat of government!

Youth services have been one of the areas most badly affected by cuts, many lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans youth groups have seen their funding totally cut or greatly reduced.

Andrew Neale, and a group of campaigners from Preston decided to raise awareness of the important role LGBT youth groups play in young LGBT people’s lives, by riding from Preston to 10 Downing Street. We caught up with him to find out more...

How are young people being affected by the cuts?

It’s something that is happening on a national level, but in Lancashire we are being told that the number of groups are going to be reduced. At the moment there are four staffed groups. What is being proposed is one member of staff for the whole of Lancashire. That means that young people in Chorley or Lancaster might have to travel to Preston to access a group – and many of these young people just don’t have the resources to do that.

People don’t realise how valuable LGBT youth groups are, and we wanted to raise awareness of the lifeline they offer.

I was made homeless when I was 17 and they helped me massively. The statistics around LGBT youth suicide are frightening – these groups offer support and really help.

RIDING FOR THE

FUTURE! How did the idea for the bike ride come about?

We wanted to engage with other LGBT youth groups around the country. We wanted to let them know what we were doing in Preston. We’ve admitted that this is happening and that realistically we are not going to reverse the cuts. Instead, we need charities, businesses and community groups to come together and help support young LGBT people.

We are looking to local businesses and community groups to help us offer youth groups places to meet. We want groups to be meeting in Chorley, Lancaster, Preston and Blackpool at least once a month supported by the paid member of staff.

Then the groups could meet more supported by volunteers. The University of Central Lancashire and Lancashire LGBT Centre have already been helping us out. We cycled from Preston, through Manchester, Stoke, Birmingham, Coventry, Northampton, Barnet and London – not bad considering none of us had bikes to begin with.

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

What sort of response did you get from town to town?

We had a great response and lots of support from people offering us accommodation.

People were really behind us – they seemed to like the fact that we weren’t complaining, but looking forward.

There was a real sense of pride. In Barnet, one of our suppo rters said to the lady in the Launderette, “you must give them free laundry – they’re meeting the Prime Minister tomorrow.”

Did you get to meet the PM? We were really disappointed that David Cameron wasn’t there; because a photo opportunity with him would have brought national attention to the issue of youth cuts.

However, we did get to go in Downing Street and hand in our letter, which highlighted the importance of LGBT youth groups, our discontent with the cuts, and urged government support for joint initiatives to support LGBT youth.

Photo: Sarah Quinn

OCT-NOV 2011

PRIDE MARCHES ON! The Pride season continues with two fabulous Pride events in the North West.

CUMBRIA Pride Cumbria is getting ready for its first big pride event on the 1st October 2011 at the Swallow Hill Top Hotel, Carlisle.

get involved. A big bus will be promoting the event through the city on the day and will be on hand to pick some people up to take them up to the event. There is also an after show party at Outrageous Cabaret Bar for those that want to keep the party going.

For more info: www.cumbriapride.org

There are a lot of organisations supporting the event, including Unison, Two Castles Housing Association, Cumbria Fire service, Cumbria Connexions, Variety Town, PiNC, Outreach Cumbria, Basque, The Shoe Boutique, Outrageous Cabaret Bar and Pride Colours.

The city of Chester is having its first annual pride event on October 1st 2011.

There will be information stands, music from local and international artists , stalls, activities and fairground rides so all the family can

Chester Pride will be held in Chester University’s Student’s Union Bar, CH1, from 12pm till 6pm. It is FREE to attend the event

Chester Pride

and is open to the public and the students of the university, with live entertainment from 1pm-5pm.

Live entertainment will include performances from local musicians and bands and speeches from Michael Cashman, MEP and Alan Bailey: Open Place Officer of NUS LBGT. Organisers highlight that to enter the CH1 bar, ID is required as the bar operates a challenge 25 policy.

The official pride after party will take place in the Liverpool Arms from 6pm till 11pm followed up by Bar 6T9 from 11pm till late. For more information contact: chesterpridelgbt@gmail.com

WORDS CAN HURT Anti-Bullying Week 2011 will be held from 14-18 November.

With the slogan ‘Stop and think – words can hurt’ this year’s campaign is focused on tackling verbal bullying.

This year’s theme came about after young people raised concerns about the negative use of language in schools and the wider community – expressions like ‘you’re so gay’.

Over Anti-bullying Week, and the week after - Manchester’s Exceeding Expectations Anti-Homophobic bullying initiative will be in Manchester schools, challenging the issue of homophobic bullying through education.

The Exceeding Expectations play OUTLOUD was inspired by the real life experiences of young lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people and explores the damage the ‘gay’ word and other homophobic language can do. www.exceedingexpectations.org.uk www.lgf.org.uk OUTNORTHWEST 11

AGENDA

With the party conference season well underway, we want more lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people to get involved in politics and the political party’s do too!

QUEER QUESTION TIME

On Sunday October 2nd (2-4pm) the Lesbian & Gay Foundation are hosting our very own Queer Question Time, and we want you to ask the panel about the issues that affect you!

What’s next for LGB&T equality? How is the age of austerity affecting our communities?

What more can we do to stop HIV in our communites? Is enough being done to combat homophobic, biphobic and transphobic hate crime in our cities and bullying in our schools?

The event will be chaired by Paul Martin OBE, Chief Executive of the Lesbian & Gay Foundation and the panel will consist of LGB&T leads of the three main political parties Adrian Trett (Liberal Democrat), James Asser (Labour), Matthew Sephton (Conservative) with special guest Claire Mooney – respected singer, songwriter and radio presenter.

Ahead of Queer Question Time we caught up with the three LGBT party leads about what marks their party’s apart, and what they’re hoping for from the event.

What do you think makes your party stand out as far as progress on LGB&T rights?

Adrian (LibDem): Our Party has almost promoted LGBT right from before decriminalisation of homosexuality, therefore it has consistently over decades stood up for LGBT rights, and always has been the leading Party at the forefront of overcoming barriers in terms of LGBT discrimination.

It’s Conference Season! LGF hosts ‘Queer Question Time’ and we ask the three main parties what their LGB&T political priorities are...

James (Labour)): For Labour it has to be our record in government. Huge progress was made between 1997 and 2010; an equal age of consent, adoption rights, civil partnerships, serving in the military, laws to prevent homophobic hatred, fertility rights, scrapping Section 28, the equality act, the first lesbian MP, the first gay cabinet minister and equality in provision of goods and services. There was and is more to do but as a record of achievement it is more than any other Government has ever done or attempted to do.

Matthew (Conservative): The Conservative Party has proved over its history that it is very capable of change and adaptation to a changing world.

Already, the following policies have been set in motion: Quashing historic convictions for sexual activity that was once illegal but now isn’t; beginning a consultation on marriage equality and the future of Civil Partnerships; using British influence abroad in countries where LGBT equality doesn’t exist; changing the law to allow religious Civil Partnerships

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

and, in the Education White Paper, tackling homophobic bullying in schools. The Conservatives also now have more openlygay MPs in Parliament than ALL the other Parties put together.

What are the top issues you are currently campaigning for on behalf of the LGB& T community?

A: The top issues we are currently campaigning on is Equal Marriage for everyone to have the right to celebrate their relationship in the way they wish too (religious or otherwise) and to ensure that same-sex partnerships are recognised internationally. To reverse the blood ban on Gay & Bisexual Men and their partner(s) who cannot give blood owing to the stigma of their sexuality, not on scientific evidence.

Ensuring that our country does not send back LGBT asylum seekers to countries where torture and persecution occurs, and promoting LGBT rights internationally lauding UK’s tolerance as an example for less tolerant to follows and aspire too.

OCT-NOV 2011

JAMES

J: We have been working on a number of campaigns. We’ve been campaigning on marriage equality and managed to secure the support of Ed Miliband. There have been campaigns and work on the blood ban too.

We’ve been responding to and campaigning on the cases going to the European Court that the Equalities and Human Rights Commission have consulted on. International issues are something that are of big concern to our members and we’re working with a number of groups to look at ways we can campaigning on LGBT rights internationally, that includes linking up with LGBT groups from Labour parties abroad.

M: LGBTory has been campaigning against the blanket ban on gay and bisexual men giving blood for some time and we are pleased at the recent government announcement that this is to end. We said all along that any change in blood donation laws must take into account the best medical evidence available and we are satisfied that this has been done. We are also campaigning for full marriage equality, and

MAT THEW

are particularly concerned that Trans issues do not get forgotten and are lobbying to ensure this does not happen.

What do you hope the audience will get from attending the Queer Question Time event on 2nd October?

A: I hope the audience take away from the event, a crystal clear message that the Liberal Democrats are very clearly supporting and fighting for LGBT rights in every sphere of society, and that politically as a nation all Parties agree that ensuring that homophobia, biphobia and transphobia are eradicated from our society is crucial and demands cross-Party working and not political grandstanding.

J: I hope they will get to see how the different parties and political groups view LGBT rights and their different ways of approaching the issues. I also hope we get to look at wider policy and see how that links into the LGBT community, often one or two flagship issues dominate the agenda,

SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION

ADRIAN

it would be if the audience got a chance to discuss wider issues. I also hope it’ll be fun and that people will come away feeling like they can get involved in politics, whatever their viewpoint and that politics is something which everyone has a part in.

M: I hope that people will enjoy finding out more about the issues of the day and in gaining clarification on some things they are not sure of. Having all three main political Parties represented will show that it, even within the LGBT community it is possible for people to sometimes agree and sometimes disagree. That is part of the rich tapestry of life, after all.

If you’ve got a question for the panel, or want to come along to this FREE event, contact darren.knight@lgf. org.uk or call 0845 3 303030

SCAN TO DIAL THIS NUMBER NOW

www.lgf.org.uk OUTNORTHWEST 13

AGENDA OCT-NOV 2011 WOOF!

FAITH

Photo: Kevin Allsopp

THE BEARS ARE COMING!

November see’s the bears (and cubs, and otters, and admirers...) return to Manchester for the annual Pre-HiBEARnation event.

Organised by Manbears, the guys behind the hugely successful Great British Bear Bash, Pre-HIB is a slightly smaller event, but no less popular and no less friendly. The event runs from Friday 4 to Sunday 6 November 2011.

You can now register online, and the cost of full weekend registration is a bargain-tastic £15. With club nights, sauna events, a pool party, and even a singles night, it looks like it’ll be another not-to-be-missed bear event!

To find out more visit www.manbears.co.uk

NEW BEAR CLUB NIGHT LAUNCHES

Launching during the same weekend as Pre-HiBEARnation (but not officially a part of the weekend) is a brand new Bear Club night from the guys behind the hugely popular ‘The Big Scrum’ night. Organisers promise that Bear Club “..is gonna be for hairy-beary-hunky-chunky-musclecubby-chubby-chaser kinda guys, at Manchester’s original Bear venue Legends Club!” The launch night takes place on Saturday 5th November from 11pm.

For more information visit the Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/bearclubuk

CROSSING

THE BRIDGE New initiative launches for LGB&T people of faith.

The Lesbian & Gay Foundation have developed a growing relationship with The Bishop of Manchester’s Advisory Group on Sexuality over the past few years which has enabled the development of several events aimed at to connect with Manchester’s LGB&T community since 2008.

Among the many issues that have been discussed in that time by The Bishop of Manchester, The Rt Revd Nigel McCulloch is making available a regular channel of communication to anyone within the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans community who seeks support and advice from a trusted member of the Manchester Diocese of The Church of England.

The Lesbian & Gay Foundation are now in a position to offer this service with the cooperation of The Bishop, his Advisory Group on Sexuality and a full time local parish priest who has built up trust within the community and is available to meet with anyone who seeks support in a safe and confidential space

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at The LGF’s Community Resource Centre in Manchester’s LGB&T village.

To celebrate this new initiative we spoke to Richard who will be available to talk in confidence to anyone who seeks support in this way. He told us, “I spent many years struggling to come to terms with my own sexuality and what seemed a contradiction.

I knew I was gay but I had a deep conviction that I was being called by God to serve as a priest. My perception, like so many other people, was that the church was homophobic and so how could God possibly be calling me.

There are many faith based organisations which seek to help but I am not aware of any other Church of England diocese that is offering what might be described as a “spiritual bridge” in such a pro-active way.”

Richard also told us why he thought LGF was a good place to offer this service. He told us, “The LGF is a discreet, safe place which is easily accessible. and it is known and well respected by the LGB&T community. So I feel it is right I should come to meet somebody on neutral territory.”

The service is available by appointment.

E-mail: info@lgf.org.uk or call 0845 3 30 30 30.

YOUNG PEOPLE

Photo: Paul Jones (Exposure)

For some people, introducing themselves as a lesbian, gay or bisexual comes as easily as saying their name, but we shouldn’t assume that this is the case for everyone.

could potentially be spending a lot of time with can feel pretty stressful.

FRESHERS: COMING OUT

NEW START...

NEW YOU? This time of year is a time of new starts for many people. Whether you’re starting college, university or embarking on the world of work, if you’re under 25, then you’re unlikely to escape the changes that Autumn brings. Put that together with International Coming Out Day being celebrated on 11th October, and the nerves of coming out may be starting to rumble.

Being young and lesbian, gay, bisexual or questioning can bring about its own challenges and benefits. If you’re going away to university, there’s likely to be an LGBT group where you can meet new people, or if you’re going to college then you may be starting with people you’ve known for years.

In any situation you find yourself in – if you’re starting a new job, course or even staying where you are; the chances of you being faced with a ‘coming out’ opportunity are quite high – but it doesn’t have to be the terrifying, disastrous situation you may be imagining.

Going through a big change and meeting new people can be one of the most terrifying, yet exciting experiences; particularly for young lesbian, gay and bisexual people, who not only have to contend with fighting those common nerves, but also have the worry about how people will react to their sexuality.

As you might realise if you’ve already come out to your family and friends, this isn’t something that you do just the once; it’s a process you tend to go through every time you meet a new friend, go to the doctors or start a new job, so coming out to people you

If you’d like to talk about coming out, contact The Lesbian & Gay Foundation on 0845 3 30 30 30 (10am-10pm), e-mail: info@lgf.org.uk. You can also visit our website for more information at www.lgf.orguk

For some people, introducing themselves as a lesbian, gay or bisexual comes as easily as saying their name, but we shouldn’t assume that this is the case for everyone. If you’ve had a negative experience in the past or haven’t felt ready to come out until now, opening up to a group of new friends can bring with it all kinds of fears; will they accept me? Will they treat me differently? Being in a situation away from your regular group of friends can also mean that your usual support networks aren’t there, which believe it or not – does have its benefits…

Meeting new people can be a chance for a fresh start; finding new interests, sharing different things and finding people who love you for just being you and not having your regular crown around can give you the push you need to start a conversation. There may be situations where people don’t react positively when you come out about being LGB – as hurtful as this may be, try not to take it to heart and remind yourself, would you really want to spend time around that person anyway?! Spend time around those who you feel comfortable with, it’s better to have fewer friends who you trust than loads of friends who you can’t be open with.

If you’re thinking of coming out, but don’t know where to start, check out our pull-out guide in this issue of OutNorthwest.

Don’t forget that LGF are celebrating International Coming Out Day with Come In, Come Out on 11th and 12th October. If you need to talk, we’ll be offering 24 hour support, online, over the phone of face to face – see our News Stories or call us on 0845 3 30 30 30 for more information on how we can help. www.lgf.org.uk OUTNORTHWEST 15

VILLAGE PEOPLE

Photo: Paul Jones (Exposure)

LOCAL BUSINESSES, CHARITIES AND THE COMMUNITY WORKING TOGETHER!

COMING OUT, KILTS AND

HALLOWEEN!

Meet MARTIN COOPER, outnorthwest’s newest contributer. If you’re a regular visitor to the Village, you’ll bump into him sooner or later. Here’s what he’ll be up to this month...

“Ah, the Village. The nerve-centre of the north-west LGB&T scene.

A bustling metropolis of beauty where anyone is welcomed and watered. A place where people from all backgrounds and societies are smashed together and encouraged to grind to Lady Gaga. I must admit, in the ten years I’ve been away I’ve missed this little piece of gay heaven.

I’ve been away and travelled, seen the world (well, bits of Devon and Cornwall) and triumphantly returned to our little safe haven and I must admit, I’m glad to be back.

And not just as a rowdy rebel but in a working-capacity for a fantastic charity that does an awful lot of fabulous work for our

gorgeous little community. Yes, I am proud to declare that I have been appointed the new Community Engagement Coordinator for the Lesbian and Gay Foundation! ‘What does that mean’ I hear you silently cry!

Basically I get to play out in all the venues in the village, meet you lovely folk and play in wardrobes and stuff.

So, the chances are, if you frequent the Village you’ll see me. If you don’t know what I look like, I’ve a look of a young Uncle Fester with a dash of Una Stubbs thrown in for good measure. Come and say hi.

We’ve got loads of stuff going on over the next couple of months including a Haunted Hotel Hallowe’en Party at The New Union Hotel, Canal Street on 29th October.

It’s a quid to get in and its fancy dress, including our brilliant ‘Witch Factor’ where

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

the best witch costume, as judged by The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, will win something gruesomely gorgeous!

Before that though, 11th October sees World Coming Out Day, so in the lead up to this we will be hanging about on the street outside Queer with a wardrobe and a camera, so you can show your support

by Coming Out Of Our Closet on 7th October from 2pm – 9pm.

As well as visits to all the venues before the end of the month, I may well don my kilt to celebrate St Andrews Day on 30th November!

So if our paths cross in the meantime, come and say hi… and buy me a drink!

Contact Martin on 0845 3 30 30 30, or e-mail martin.cooper@lgf.org.uk

SCAN FOR MORE

Canal Street

You can now carry Canal Street in your pocket! The makers of the website www.canal-st.co.uk have now launched an official iPhone app (with an Android version on the way!)

The Canal-st.co.uk App is designed to keep you up to date with all the events, promotions and happenings. It will feed you information on everything from special promotions to theatre ticket deals! The app also features maps to show you where events are, carries the latest news stories from the Village and makes entering their fabulous competitions a one click action!

You can download the app from the iTunes store now. It’s completely free too!

SAY HELLO TO THE NEW NEIGHBOURS! Three fabulous new venues have recently launched in the Village. Check them out!

Icon is a fabulous new bar on Richmond Street (just opposite Company Bar), The Lodge is a stylish new bar from the makers of The Eagle, and Richmond Tea Room is a gorgeous new venue serving beautiful tea, cakes and sandwiches.

We’re LOVING the Alice In Wonderland feel guys!

Show your support by paying a visit! And don’t forget all your other Village favourites too!

NEW VOICES Hollyoaks stars Kieron Richardson and Bronagh Waugh are the latest highprofile names to join the line-up of the country’s only FM gay radio station, Gaydio. The duo, who play Cheryl Brady and Ste Hay in the popular Channel 4 soap, front a new weekly show Sundays 4pm – 6pm with a mix of lifestyle and entertainment gossip.

Commenting on the show, Bronagh said ‘it’s great that Kieron and I get to be ourselves on Gaydio, talking about everyday things and some not so everyday stuff! Off screen we are great friends and it’s wonderful to know our fans have embraced the new show – we’re loving being able to talk directly to the listeners’ Kieron, who revealed he was gay on ITV’s This Morning programme in 2010, having been inspired to do so by X Factor winner Joe McElderry, is a Mancunian and proud of it. He added ‘We’re broadcasting from

the amazing City of Manchester, where Gaydio has grown an equally amazing audience. But through the website and iPhone app we get listeners from all over the world – I can’t wait to get to know them all.’

Gaydio Programme Director Toby Whitehouse says about the show ‘Kieron and Bronagh bring an amazing energy to Sundays at Gaydio. They’re great role models and a fantastic addition to our lineup which already includes Manchester music icon Rowetta, radio legend Nicksy and dance music goliath David Dunne.

We’re really pleased to welcome them into our great team’

SCAN THE QR CODE to download the Gaydio iPhone app!

THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT!

INFORMATION

You can hear Keiron and Bronagh 4pm – 6pm Sundays.

Listen on 88.4FM in Greater Manchester, online through the UK Radioplayer and via the website www.gaydio. co.uk or using the free iPhone app. Tweet them @keebroshow www.lgf.org.uk OUTNORTHWEST 17

S F

IN

S T

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UP YOUR WAY

FOCUS ON: YOUNG MEN

LGBT Youth North West young men’s residential weekend Fri 30th Sept to Sun 2nd Oct, the weekend is themed around health, fitness and wellbeing. In Delamere Forest, the weekend is packed with activities including wild water swimming, mountain biking through the Forest, Night walk and much more. The weekend is accredited so you come away with a qualification.T he weekend is free; all we ask for is a £10 returnable deposit.

Contact lgbtyouthnorthwest@ yahoo.co.uk for info and forms

FOCUS ON: GAY FARMERS

The Gay Farmers Helpline The Gay Farmers Helpline has been running now for about eighteen months and the take up has been tremendous. It was expected that there would be a large number of negative calls but interestingly the vast majority of the calls were very supportive of what was being done with only seven negative responses.

The callers included some who were looking for help and others volunteering to help. Many of the callers wanted a social network and so we have started a secret Facebook group and this is proving a good means of support with some conversations being online and others direct with members.

Where do we go from here? Who knows? A need is obviously being met and we continue to look for ways of developing the work either as an independent body or in association with others. If you have any suggestions please call Keith on 07837 931894 .

MERSEY

MARAUDERS! FOCUS ON: SPORT Mersey Marauders Football Club (MMFC) have grown from strength to strength in 2011. In March, MMFC won the biggest ever Yorkshire Tournament besting 33 teams from across the UK in a 5-a-side competition.

In August, MMFC won the Leicester 6-a-side tournament that saw 23 teams take part.

This Autumn, MMFC will be teaming up with Hope LGBT with a joint team, playing facilities and fund raisers pencilled in.

Plans for participation in the 11-a-side league and cup competitions of the GFSN are

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

well underway with MMFC playing regular 11-a-side football in the run up to next year’s fixtures. New sponsors are currently being sought to enable the team to enter European football and be Liverpool’s only team in Europe this season, contact the club if you want to help take this forward.

A new website, www.merseymaraudersfc. co.uk is attracting critical acclaim.

If you want to take part in the exploits of MMFC, come along for practice any Friday night from 8 to 9pm. Practice currently takes place at Everton Lifestyles, Great Homer Street, but check the website for latest details.

YOUR PAGES IN YOUR WORDS!

FOCUS ON...

Christmas Fayre

Photo: Sarah Quinn

EQUALITY PARTNERSHIP BRADFORD FOCUS ON: MANCHESTER PRIDE

PRIDE 2012!

Manchester Pride 2011 went off with a bang over the August Bank Holiday weekend, as we came together to celebrate LGBT culture and life for an absolutely fabulous 21st birthday.

We would like to thank all of those who support us and make us the organisation we are today. Patrons, friends, trustees, volunteers, the board, festival goers, sponsors, media partners and more - without your help we would be unable to raise such large amounts of funding each year to help LGBT organisations and HIV groups. So, thank you. Believe it or not, we are now back in the office at Manchester Pride HQ and are busy beavering away for 2012... (It really does come around that quickly) For those extremely early birds, the dates to put in your diaries are: Pride Fringe: Friday 17 - Thursday 23 August, and Big Weekend: Friday 24 - Monday 27 August.

Until then, please check our website (www.manchesterpride.com) for updates. We look forward to seeing you all in 2012!

FOCUS ON: MANCHESTER PARENTS GROUP

25 YEARS OF SUPPORT We are proud to be celebrating 25 years of supporting parents and families of LGB&T people.

We hold monthly parents support group meetings on the first Saturday of each month at Taurus in Canal Street, Manchester from 2pm to 4 pm. Our meetings are very friendly and completely confidential, so if your parents are having difficulty accepting your sexuality, or would just like to meet other parents of gay sons and daughters for a friendly chat, suggest they come along to one of our meetings. October 1st November 5th are the last meeting dates of the year. December 3rd meeting will be our Christmas lunch and 25th birthday celebration at Taurus.

On Saturday 26th November 11 – 3pm at the Midland Hotel, the Equity Partnership is hosting a Christmas Fayre with stalls, music and cakes!

The money raised will go directly towards Pride 2012; for more information on the event or how to book a stall contact Rachel on 01274 727759/79 or email rachel@ equitypartnership.org.uk

LGBT DEAF PEOPLE

MANCHESTER DEAF TRIANGLE GROUP Manchester Deaf Triangle Club was set up in 1985 as a support and social group for D/ deaf LGB& people. We organise regular social events and have also visited D/deaf LGB%T clubs in other parts of Europe such as Germany and Holland. Membership costs ÂŁ5 per year.

If you would like more information, would like to join or volunteer, please contact us at: Manchester Deaf Triangle Club, Manchester Deaf Centre, Crawford House, Booth Street East, Manchester, M13 9GH or visit www.manchesterdeaftriangleclub.co.uk or www.facebook. com/manchesterdeaf.triangleclub email triangle@manchesterdeafcentre.com or call 0161 2733415 fax 0161 273 6698

WOMEN

OUT TO LUNCH LESBIAN DINERS CLUB Around 40 women meet from all over the country to relax, chat and enjoy an informal Sunday lunch.

The next meeting will be 13th November. Please call Paula to book a place or for more details: 0781 308 3242 paulad650@aol. com or visit website www. lesbiandiners. co.uk

For more info visit www.manpg.co.uk or call 0845 652 2674. www.lgf.org.uk OUTNORTHWEST 19

A recent Canadian campaign asked gay men the question ‘if you were rejected every time you disclosed, would you?’

The aim of the campaign was to raise awareness of some of the issues faced by men living with HIV when thinking about disclosing status to potential sexual partners. The campaign was not intended as a way to ‘tell’ people what to do but to stimulate discussion amongst the community.

The results of the campaign seem to show – amongst other things - that there was a reduction in the number of men reporting that they rely on men disclosing HIV status as a way of avoiding infection themselves.

HIV status disclosure raises a lot of issues – both for gay men who are living with HIV and for men who aren’t.

The starting point for the discussion needs to be the fact that there is no obligation on someone living with HIV to disclose the fact to anyone – apart from in very specific employment situations where there is a risk of transmission.

Despite the fact that many people seem to believe it to be the case, there is no obligation on a gay men living with HIV to disclose that fact before sex.

Disclosing HIV status and the reasons why some men choose not to disclose is a discussion that needs to be had not just between men living with HIV but across the wider gay community. As such, the disclosure discussion is one for all of us to be involved in.

DISCLOSE OR NOT?

It’s right, however, to acknowledge the fact that for some HIV positive gay men, experiences of disclosure are good, empowering and affirming.

A simple ‘thanks for telling me now, where were we…..?’ goes a long way to maintaining someone’s dignity and feeling of self worth.

If you’re living with HIV, how do you negotiate what can often be a minefield, when thinking about who you should, could or ought to disclose to?

Think about who you want to tell and why. Is it going to benefit you or are you doing it because you feel that you ought to?

As the Canadian campaign hinted, one of the reasons HIV positive men may choose not to disclose is the fear of rejection. Too often – but by no means in every case – HIV positive gay men are rejected by other gay men simply because disclosure has happened.

Think about where you’re thinking of doing it. Is where you’re thinking of disclosing safe and discreet and are you in the right frame of mind?

Gay men led the way in terms of campaigning for HIV support provision in the early days of the epidemic in order to ensure that the men living with the virus had the care and support they so desperately needed at that time. It shames us all that gay men living with HIV today are still experiencing rejection because of the choice to disclose HIV status.

Think about the reasons that might stop you from disclosing. Is this something you might want

Think about the reaction you might receive from who you’re about to tell. Are you prepared for the range of reactions that might follow?

to discuss further with someone before you go ahead?

You HIV is your business – but choosing to disclose can be empowering and significant.

Unfortunately, a world where HIV stigma is still alive and kicking is not an ideal world in which to disclose your HIV status - but you have a right to be treated with dignity and respect once you choose to be open about it.

Our fabulous, diverse community is capable of great things when we support and respect each other – gay men living with HIV deserve no more and no less.

If you are living with HIV and would like to talk to someone about disclosure – or about any other issue – we’re here to help. Call 0161 274 4499 to make an appointment with one of our Service Advisers or visit our website wwww.ght.org.uk where you can also request an appointment.

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

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

SCAN HERE TO VISIT THE GHT SITE

COMING OUT SPECIAL It’s something we all do, whether it’s to ourselves, our families, our friends or our work colleagues. And it’s never something we do only once. Coming out is personal to every single LGB person. Over the next four pages we talk to people about their coming out stories.; and offer our indispensible Guide To Coming Out!

SIMON’S STORY COMING OUT AS BISEXUAL ‘Aren’t you gay though Simon?’ is the one line that never seems to go away. When I first knew and was open about my bisexuality I was surprised to find that not many people understood what being bisexual actually was, and some still don’t know.

For this reason I found it difficult at first, I suppose the opinion is that bisexuals don’t have it so bad, that at least they have support and don’t really get homophobia. Let me make this clear that this is not the case at all. I’ve found that I’m often treated as an outsider for the simple reason people don’t understand.

’S TOSTM ORY “Since I turned 19 I’ve been noticing more and more difference between myself and other 19 year old guys.

I had probably known since I was around 13/14 that there was something different about me. I could never really tell what it was until a couple of years ago. Coming out has been the best thing i’ve done in my life.

I knew something had to happen and the

In my personal opinion I think it’s as hard and I dare say it can be more difficult coming out as bisexual than gay. If you look at it this way that as a bisexual I get prejudice from both sides ; but to get comments from people who have suffered prejudice, bullying

decision was to either accept or forget about it, I had been quite good about forgetting about it whilst I was growing up, to me it wasn’t right, normal or what I wanted. But realising what I was in the last year and not being able to tell anyone about it made me extremely depressed. It reached a point where I realised I couldn’t do this anymore.

The first person I told was my mum. I am currently going through the ‘coming out’ phase and each time I tell someone it gets a lot easier, the hardest part is telling the

and abuse just for being who they are is the real shocking fact, surely we’re in similar boats?

As far as relationships go I’ve had relationships with both sexes. The most successful of which was with another bisexual. I count the success more to understanding and trust than the person’s sexuality. If I like someone I like them for who they are not what’s between their legs. I look for the same qualities in both sexes which at times can become difficult as both men and women are different.

For me I know deep down who I am and it’s a part of me. I wouldn’t say I’m proud of it neither would I say I’m ashamed, it just is.

I can only account for the male side of bisexuality but I’ve heard it’s pretty much the same for female bisexuals. As I embark on another new relationship I find that she is bisexual as well. Something that is hardly surprising. Bisexuals generally understand and trust each other which can’t in my opinion (at the moment) be said for other kinds of relationships bisexual people have.

first few. I had to tell people because I was never going to be happy lying about myself to everyone, the fact I was lying made me in particular depressed about it all.

Now all my friends know, and parts of my family, and I’m happy about it because I can be me. I am off to University this September and I am not even slightly worried about telling the people I am going to be living with because if they don’t like it then I am not going to lose a friend that I never had.” www.lgf.org.uk OUTNORTHWEST 23

INTERVIEW

JOHN AMAECHI John Amaechi OBE is a psychologist, New York Times best-selling author and former NBA basketball player. From Stockport, he’s also a patron of Manchester Pride.

Here, John talks to outnorthwest about his very public ‘coming out’.

It’s been almost five years since you made the decision to publicly ‘come out’. What prompted you to make this decision?

I saw the impact that visible role models made - specifically by watching the effect of Sir Ian McKellen at Manchester Pride a few years ago. The loss of personal privacy and other such petty matters that seemed so important to me just melted away in comparison to the impact I saw he had on people. I realise I am not of his stature or fame, but I am a minority within a minority and - let’s face it - not the average face of the LGBT community, and I knew there are young people (and older people) out there who have been waiting to see someone from sport, someone not akin to any stereotype... someone who’s story they could relate to and I knew it was important to come out publicly then.

How has your life changed since then?

In some ways not much, all my family and friends and most of my teammates already knew I was gay - I was out like most people - to the people who matter to them, but in other ways I have become a target for the ire of bigots and also a mouthpiece for the LGBT community, the LGBT sporting community, the Black and minority LGBT community, at least in the eyes of the media - so sometimes it feels like I have my hands full and a lot to live up to...

What support did close friends and family offer you?

They all knew years before, so for them their main concern was my happiness and safety.

As it should be (but I know for many it is not) my friends and family love me for me, and there has literally never been a fuss or an issue, just genuine, loving support.

As a high profile, out gay man, you must have many people contacting you with their personal stories, or for support. How do you deal with those approaches?

I pride myself on making sure I am as contactable as possible. Through Twitter (@ JohnAmaechi) and by my personal website and Facebook page. I think it is vital when people take the time to reach out that I reply.

I really enjoy the fact that people seem to think I am a reasonably wise contact for their ideas, thoughts, worries and stories.

If anyone reading this is thinking about ‘coming out’, what advice would you give them before doing so?

If you are in a reasonable, open-minded situation where you know that you don’t have to fear abuse of any kind or being thrown out of your house then I recommend people find at least one person they trust and who cares for them and talk to them about how you feel and who you are. I believe that one authentic relationship like that can not only facilitate coming out to more people, but help you be a happier, less isolated person. I should also add that while coming out is the best thing in so many ways for people, there are some LGBT young people especially those in religious or some ethnic minority households who really do put your futures - and sometimes their lives - at risk by comin g out to caregivers. If that is the case, and I can’t emphasise this enough: there is no shame in NOT coming out to them to keep you and your future safe. But even in those situations, I encourage you to reach out to someone you can share your life with and feel less isolated... it may be a sibling or a good friend, a team or classmate, but try to find someone you think you can trust with who you are....

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

How important do you think it is for young LGB people to have publicfigure role models?

It’s essential, but they need to be the right kind, not just random gay and lesbian people who don’t recognise and honour the responsibility of their position as icons.

Young LGBT people need role models who thrive on that position, like Sir Ian, and who live a life that shows at every turn that happiness and fulfilment are a possible future for every LGBT person no matter their race, religion, social class or education... hopefully I am fulfilling that is a small, niche way.

You are now a person who is inspiring other people to come out. Do you feel a certain sense of responsibility?

I have actually taken some fire from the ‘gay community’ because I make it clear that I think coming out is the best situation for LGBT people BUT I always say that physical, emotional and psychological welfare now is primary. I am not willing to tell everyone to just come out NOW and watch the fallout as the streets swell with more LGBT homeless children kicked out of closed-minded homes, as people become pariahs in religious communities and neighbourhoods at an age when then don’t have the means or the rights to move away. Safety first independence first, if necessary - then come out... whether today, in a year or in five years time, those of us who care in the LGBT community be there with open arms and without judgement, until it is safe for each individual to come out. And while we wait, those of us who care will work to make it a little bit easier for each coming out to happen.

www.johnamaechi.com

JOHN AMAECHI

“safety first... then come out. those of us in the lgbt community will be there with open arms and without judgement, until it is safe for each individual to come out.”

SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION

www.lgf.org.uk OUTNORTHWEST 25

DO’S & DON”TS!

SCAN FOR MORE

COMINGOUT!

INFORMATION

Coming out is something the LGF support thousands of people with each year and we understand how nerve-wracking the process can be, so here are a few helpful hints!

DO!

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

IN

11th October is International Coming Out Day and to celebrate, LGF are going to be supporting people around the clock for 24 hours in our Come In, Come Out event.

Whether you’re thinking about coming out, questioning or out and proud you, you can contact us using the info below!

AY TD

Call our 24 hour helpline on 11th and 12th October on 0845 3 30 30 30. Get support online at www.lgf.org.uk Email us at helpline@lgf.org.uk Come in and see us at Number 5 Richmond Street, Manchester, M1 3HF between 10am and 10pm

M

OU

COME IN, COME OUT!

CO

G

and one you really trust, Start by telling some have to lps supportive. It he who you know will be ss. ce pro you through the someone to support • – perhaps start a st fir r te wa Test the one sexuality with some conversation about ction. rea ir the e ug ga lling to you’re thinking of te • gh if you need us throu re he ’re We . ort pp su Get us nd se , us face to face. Call our helpline, email or ). low be ils ta and see us (de an email or come in • plenty of time when ide as t se u yo Make sure lots of d, people may have you won’t be disturbe m. m the space to ask the questions so give the • ive reactions, both posit of Prepare for a variety ct rea n times people ca and negative. Some give ocked or surprised – sh e differently if they’r e us ca be st Ju news sink in. them time to let the rily ssa ce ne n’t es now, do they react negatively ver come around. ne l y’l the an me • rson are still the same pe u yo t tha le op pe Remind of ud pro own and loved, be they have always kn who you are!

• ss – out is a lifelong proce ng mi co t Remember tha sire de the l fee u yo ns where there may be situatio tio ta n, out your sexual orien or need to be open ab l feel more confident you’l the more you do it, the each time.

INTERNATIONAL

DO NOT!

Tell someone as they’r e rushing out to work, over Christmas dinner or when you’ve had a few to o many. It’s better to sit down somewhere qu iet and have a proper co nversation with the m.

• Take negative reacti ons to heart. Ok, so this is easier said than done , but sometimes it ta kes people a bit of time for the news to sink in and remember there are loads of people out there who will love you for who you are.

• Go it alone, there’s loads of help out the re and every situation can be supported. Call us on 08453 30 30 30 Mo n-Fri 10am-10pm an d tell us how we can help.

• Rush into it – it’s be tter to feel confident in yourself and prepared before you tell peop le rather than do it on the spur of the mome nt.

• Feel you have to come out if someone asks or ‘outs’ you. Rememb er, it’s you who is in control, if you’re not ready, the n don’t feel pushed into it.

• Replace all of your old friends for new ones – coming out is a excit ing time and the chan ce s are , you’ll meet loads of new people, but don’t for ge t about the friends wh o have stood by you.

CUT-OUT-AND-KEEP!

DO•IT CALENDAR FOR MEN (AND THEIR FRIENDS)

DO IT ALL YEAR ROUND! Learn real skills and meet new friends.

Thanks to funding from the Skills Funding Agency, The Lesbian & Gay Foundation have teamed up with Gaydio and The Manchester College to deliver FREE Skills Workshops to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans community.

Workshops include heritage and film, radio presentation, radio production, photography, social media, craft, creative writing, cooking, and DIY. There will be 24 sessions in all, twelve delivered by LGF of which six are aimed at women though men are welcome, and six are aimed at men though women are welcome, and twelve delivered by Gaydio.

Workshops run on Saturday afternoons from

Sept 2011 to March 2012. This is a great opportunity to access adult learning in a safe and friendly environment in order to learn new skills, improve your CV, try free taster sessions, meet like minded people and have fun!

There will also be lots of information and handy hints about accessing further learning if you like what you try! Even better, we can also cover childcare costs, reasonable travel costs, and facilitate any access needs (signing, etc.).

For more information about what’s on when, and coming along to the events visit www. lgf.org.uk/doit, email skills@lgf. org.uk or call 0845 3 30 3030

VOLUNTEER FOR DO•IT!

SCAN TO DIAL THIS NUMBER NOW

There are also some fantastic volunteering opportunities with this project. Three roles have been created - Marketing Support, Office Support and Workshop Delivery Support. For more information on these volunteering roles, and to get involved in this exciting project drop Claire Taylor a line claire.taylor@lgf.org.uk or call her on 08453 303030 .

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

OCTOBER Saturday 8th: Heritage & Film NOVEMBER Saturday 5th: Healthy Cooking DECEMBER Saturday 3rd: DJ Skills JANUARY Saturday 7th: Tweeting & Blogging FEBRUARY Saturday 4th: Photography MARCH Saturday 3rd: Photoshop Skills

FOR WOMEN (AND THEIR FRIENDS)

OCTOBER Saturday 15th: Well Well Well NOVEMBER Saturday 19th: Crafternoon DECEMBER Saturday 17th: Creative Writing JANUARY Saturday 21st: Healthy Cooking FEBRUARY Saturday 21st: DIY Skills

FOR ALL (AND THEIR FRIENDS!)

OCTOBER Saturday 22nd: Radio Presentation Saturday 29th: Radio Presentation NOVEMBER Saturday 12th: Radio Presentation Saturday 26th: Radio Production DECEMBER Saturday 3rd: Radio Production Saturday 10th: Radio Production JANUARY Saturday 14th: Radio Presentation Saturday 28th: Radio Presentation FEBRUARY Saturday 11th: Radio Presentation Saturday 25th: Radio Production MARCH Saturday 17th: Radio Production Saturday 31st: Radio Production

returns!

Liverpool’s world-class LGBT arts festival Homotopia - returns for it’s 8th event in November, and this year brings audiences five new commissions and four world premieres amongst over 30 events across Liverpool throughout November. This year’s theme is ‘Cruising For Art’ showcasing an array of the queer, the extravagant, the bold, the unexpected and the daring. A celebration of 21st century LGBT life with an eclectic programme of theatre, dance, film, cabaret & discussion. outnorthwest is extremely proud to once again be a media partner for Homotopia.

Across these two pages, we’re highlighting some of the world premieres and new commissions - but we just don’t have to space to tell you everything that’s going on. For a full run-down on this year’s event (and believe us, there really IS something to suit every taste), head along to the official website at:

www.homotopia.net 30 OUTNORTHWEST Support the work of the LGF. Donate online today at www.lgf.org.uk

WORLD

PREMIERE

EXHIBITION

SAVAGE STYLE!

Fri 4 Nov - Sun 19 February The Walker Art Gallery & The Museum of Liverpool Two venues at National Museums Liverpool host a selection of fabulous frocks from the wardrobe of Lily Savage, the acidtongued alter ego of comedian and television presenter, Paul O’Grady. The display comprises 7 dresses and outfits worn by Lily in her many different guises, including one worn as host of television game show Blankety Blank. Also featured are some of her incredible pantomime costumes as well as Lily’s more ‘informal’ daywear looks. Two costumes will be displayed at the new Museum of Liverpool, with the other five at the Walker Art Gallery. Lily’s Birkenhead-born creator, Paul O’Grady, ‘retired’ the famous ‘blonde bombsite’ to a French convent in 2004. She made a brief re-appearance in panto in Southampton in 2010 and now she’s back in this display, bigger and brassier than ever!

WORLD

PREMIERE

DANCE/THEATRE

CRUISING CLUBBING FUCKING Weds 2 & Thurs 3 Nov 8pm Unity Theatre Cruising Clubbing Fucking is a dancetheatre performance exploring how gay men have met and seduced each other, from the 60’s to the present day. Blending bodies with beats and contemporary dance styles with gesture, the three dancers move their way through this world of late night lust, combining seduction, sex and moments of human tenderness.

FILM EXHIBITION

UK

PREMIERE

BerlinYogyakarta

From Hitler’s Terror To Human Rights Today Tues 1- 14 Nov Contemporary Urban Centre Presented by Project Triangle, Homotopia’s youth project, and developed by KPH (Campaign against Homophobia) Warsaw, the exhibition shows the persecution of non-heterosexual people by the Nazis during their occupation of Europe. Berlin is shown as a place of freedom for homosexual people but ironically also the birthplace of the Nazi dictatorship and its attempts to eliminate LGBT people.

LA ZOMBIE Fri 30 Sept, 10pm Wolstenholme Project 11-13 Wolstenholme Square Chew Disco, Adandon Normal Devices and Homotopia present a special late screening of Bruce La Bruce’s queer classic LA ZOMBIE. Director Bruce LaBruce: “We live in a zombie world. There are zombie buildings, zombie banks, zombie economies, zombie nations. Zombies are the ultimate consumers and the ultimate conformists, and we live in the ultimate consumerist, conformist world. Even the gay movement has become totally conventional and conformist - gay zombies. “

FILM

A TASTE OF HONEY

TALK

50th Anniversary Screening Sun 6 Nov, 6pm Picturehouse at FACT Tony Richardson’s 1961 film was a critical and commercial success. Subjects like sex, abortion and homosexuality were tackled through the emotions of Jo, played impressively by Liverpudlian Rita Tushingham Rita Tushingham will be attending the gala screening and afterwards appearing at a specially arranged Q&A with Professor Roger Shannon Department Of Film & Media Edge Hill University

DISCUSSION/DEBATE

AN AUDIENCE WITH DAVID HOYLE Thurs 10 Nov, 6pm Unity Theatre Avant guardian, artist and performer David Hoyle is unmasked in a special festival first. Author Rupert Smith is face to face with Hoyle exploring his life, his art and living with mental illness.

Presented in partnership Liverpool Mental Health Awareness. Event will also be live streamed via www.homotopia.tv

AN AUDIENCE WITH APRIL ASHLEY Weds 23 Nov, 7.30pm Adrian Boult Hall, Birmingham Miss April Ashley will be in Birmingham for a special SHOUT appearance presenting recollections of her life in conversation with Mark Simpson. April is one of the most important and well known figures in the UK transgender community. Born in Liverpool in 1935 as George Jamieson, she lived in Liverpool for all of her childhood. In 1960 she was one of the first people to undergo gender reassignment surgery in Morocco. April developed a successful career as a model even appearing in Vogue. www.lgf.org.uk OUTNORTHWEST 31

FUNNY GIRLS

OUTSPOKEN! Three of the UK’s funniest comedians Jen Brister (36), Zoe Lyons (39) and Suzi Ruffell (25) have come together to tour their new show - Stand Out! Here they tell outnorthwest a few jokes, the best thing about being a woman and much more.

Photo: Chris James of Shoebox Media

Which three items would you take to a desert island?

JEN: My tweezers because even alone I won’t want a uni brow, a crate of matches (for obvious reasons) and the book “How to survive on a desert island’ by Ray Mears.

ZOE: A massive note pad, pencil and barrel of rum SUZI: My phone, some headphones and a helicopter.

Which person, living or dead, do you most admire, and why?

J: Boudicca – she seemed to have pretty strong opinions about the invading Romans and I love a woman in a breast plate.

Z: I am constantly marvelling at the energy of Hilary Clinton. People always bang on about comedy being a male dominated world and I think how do you think Hilary Clinton and Angela Merkel feel?

What do you owe your parents? What is the most important lesson life has taught you?

J: I owe my parents everything. In particular my Mum, who is the moral compass in my family. I can lie to people, I can lie to myself, but I can’t lie to my Mum. She’ll push the truth in my face whether I like it or not. The most important lesson is to be true to yourself, don’t compromise who you are, what you want to be or do with your life because it makes other people uncomfortable, or they don’t get it. They don’t have to, only you do.

Z: I have my mother to thank for my sense of humour and sense of adventure and my dad for my love of the outdoors and good food. I think

SUZI

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

together they have helped make me take a balanced view. The most important thing I have learnt is try not to sweat the small stuff, and most of it is small stuff.

S: An awful lot of money. Pretty much everything. They are very supportive, I am very lucky. I live by Dad’s advice: ‘Suz, do what you want with your life, be happy, laugh lots and always lead a horse from the left’.

What keeps you awake at night?

J: My girlfriend snoring and the thought of writing a brand new hour of comedy before February, but mainly the snoring.

Z: My cat chasing imaginary mice at 4.00 am S: The neighbours shagging.

If you could be any character, who would you be?

J: I would be Asterix from

JEN

Asterix and Obelix. I like his moustache, when I bleach mine there is an uncanny resemblance.

Z: Orlando from the Virginia Wolf novel.

Orlando lived for centuries first as a man then a woman.

S: I’d like to be Harry Potter.

Who are your three ideal dinner guests, living or dead?

J: I’d like to have Adele round for tea, I think she’d be a laugh, might be nice to have Jesus Christ over as I have a few questions I’d like to run past him and lastly Caitlin Moran cause because the woman is clever AND funny.

Z: Stewie Griffin, he will need a high chair, Kate Bush and Banksy.

S: Charlie Chaplin, Dolly Parton and that guy that does the voice over on ‘Come Dine With Me’.

What would your superpower be?

J: I’d like to be able to fly anywhere, with luggage that weighs over 15 kg. YES RYAN AIR I CAN FLY SO I CAN TAKE WHATEVER LUGGAGE I LIKE!!!

Z: Ok, this is very cliched but I would love to be able to fly, not just fly... fly at speed.

Think of the possibilities. No more driving to gigs, cheap hols. I would have a super insulated suit for the low temperatures at high altitude.

S: Flying.

What do you think is the greatest challenge facing women today?

J: In the UK or in Saudi

“Here in the UK, the greatest challenge facing women is inertia; the illusion that women have it all and there is no more work to be done.”

Arabia and Iran? Because I think there might be a slight discrepancy in terms of our priorities. Here in the UK the biggest challenge is inertia, the illusion that women have it all and there is no more work to be done. I work in an incredibly sexist industry where it’s still ok for a promotor to tell me to my face that he won’t book me because he doesn’t think women are funny.

Z: It is as basic as the right to an education in some countries. In so many places women still are not allowed to live a full and equal life.

S: I

hear it’s hard to juggle (family and work commitments, not the circus skill).

The best thing about being a woman?

J: Everything – apart from equal pay, child care in the work place and having a human being pushed out of an area in your body that starts out the size of a 10 pence piece.

Z: I think women are more relaxed about “competing” with each other. I think men are under more pressure to be Alpha and compete on more levels.

S: Clothes Tell us a joke.

J: Hear the one about the dyslexic who walked into a bra.

Z: My pal had a boob job from the profits of a car boot sale. That’s what I call tit for tat.

S: I can’t think of one....that’s not a good sign, I know.

ZOE You can catch Jen, Zoe & Suzi in Stand Out at Manchester Sound Control on November 22nd. www.lgf.org.uk OUTNORTHWEST 33

FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN GET TESTED BY VISITING www.lgf.org.uk/testing

PATRICK POINTS OUT Patrick Ettenes tells us how his HIV+ diagnosis has made him determined to encourage more men to get tested.

“A few months ago I shared a story on my life with HIV, and now I’ve been asked to write my thoughts on why people should get tested.

So, why don’t we get tested as regularly as we should? I understand that going to the clinic is one thing, but what scares the life out of us, is what happens next.

How would we cope with any bad news? The anxiety is so overwhelming that many gay men don’t collect their results. Many of us don’t even go for our tests at all. When I was diagnosed, I didn’t know what support I’d have, who to tell, who to talk to, but now, 7 years later, I’ve realized that it wasn’t as hard to seek help, if only I knew now what I didn’t back then. I have a better relationship with my doctors than my own GP because they spend more time with me, I’m constantly looked out for and I can talk to them about everything. As for family and friends, I’m lucky, I told all of them to remember me for who I am . And that helps. Currently in the UK, one in four gay men with HIV remain undiagnosed. That my friend, is the reason why I’m trying to encourage you to get tested .

I can’t tell you, how many people I know who have left it for too long only to be so ill that they take months to get back any kind of normal life. When I ask them, why they left it so long, they all say , “I don’t know. I was scared, and thought it wouldn’t happen to me.”

And it’s turned out worse now than if they found out earlier.

All those years of denial, guilt, depression, but you have to move on, grow up, accept and change your path, at the end of the day, it changes you, but it’s up to you, to decide if your test result is going to have a positive, or a negative effect on you, either way, remember that there are many of us here for you.I would like to hear your thoughts, and hear what YOU have to say. Please do get in touch.” outnorthwest will pass on all your correspondence to Patrick.

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

Photo: Paul Jones (Exposure)

Where does one start? Well perhaps one can understand why getting tested isn’t so exciting. Being in a room filled with people in a clinic designed, for SEXUAL HEALTH can be daunting. You sit down next to some guy and the question that first pops into your head is, what on earth are you in here for? When I was younger my mates and I would go with each other to the clinic for moral support, some of the looks you would get from other gay men got to me so one day I blurted out “ We all suck cock in here!

And take it! And that’s why, we’re all here. For the same reason, so, stop staring! “ But then suddenly like a slap, reality hits home, and you’re faced with the truth. How do you think you would react to a positive test ? There are some things that you can only understand when they happen to you. And here I am, someone like yourself, not a health professional but speaking from experience.

FROM AFRICA WITH

Terrence Liboma is “33, single, fabulous and ambitious” (his own words!)

Born and raised in Zimbabwe, he is now based in Leeds.

Terry works for Yorkshire MESMAC as a Community Development Worker, supporting African men who have sex with men (MSM) around sexual health and HIV prevention.

We asked Terry a few questions about his work and what he thinks needs to be done to better support gay and bisexual men from black and minority ethnic (BME) communities.

Coming Out “Coming out to my friends and family made it easier to live my life for me. Because my loved ones are supportive of my life, I am able to be myself and not hide my very essence by pretending to be someone I am not. Coming out is not easy, but if it’s done in the right way, the rewards are endless.

However, lack of protection against LGB&T discrimination in most African countries, where many black men grow up, instils fears associated with coming out or being outed even if they migrate. Homophobia in many African countries is a form of social justice or citizens arrest, and the fact that most of these crimes go unpunished dissuades anyone from coming out.”

Myths & Barriers “Most LGBT communities are very welcoming of other ethnic groups but some myths and beliefs tend to feed into the objectification of minorities within a minority and can become racism. A comment like “ black men have big

GAY MEN’S HEALTH TRAINING

ALTOGETHER STRONGER

LOVE

dicks” is a good example, there is no malice in the statement, but stereotypical intrigue has an effect on the ability of minority group members to fully feel part of a community.

BME men may feel uncomfortable within the gay community for many reasons, such as: • One night stand culture which could mean continual coming out to lots of different people for those looking for longer term relationships. Lack of events to cater for BME men’s preferred music types. • Lack of education about UK gay culture. Most BME men come from countries that prohibit LGBT activities and to suddenly be free and be left to figure it all out on your own can be overwhelming. • Being unable to speak English impacts on confidence to meet and socialize with other guys too.”

Sex & HIV “The challenge here is around convincing people brought up not to talk about sex or sexuality, to access services that put them in a situation to talk about this culturally or religiously taboo issue, without feeling vulnerable or going against norms.

People tend to slip through the net when they are unsupported. Stigma and discrimination are real challenges that hinder dialogue to enable BME communities to support their LGBT populations. ddressing LGBT awareness and education within BME communities nationally, would facilitate greater acceptance of LGBT rights and pave the way for the setting up support structures.”

Terry is working to develop a Toolkit to help Sexual Health Organisations, BME, LGBT and HIV Support agencies meet the needs of African MSM around HIV Prevention care and support and access to Sexual Health services.

As well as working in Leeds and London, he is planning to hold three workshops in Manchester to support the development of the toolkit.

Manchester Workshops at The Lesbian & Gay Foundation

19th October BME / HIV Organisations 26th October LGBT Organisations 27th October HIV Healthcare professionals and Counsellors All workshops will run from 12 noon till 2:30pm and will include food and refreshments.

E-mail Terry for more info: t.liboma@mesmac.co.uk www.lgf.org.uk OUTNORTHWEST 35

GAY MEN’S HEALTH

HEALTH ALERT!

SHIT HAPPENS When contemplating a bit of safer bum fun, it isn’t just about condoms and lube (important as they are!). We’ve heard of a few cases recently of guys who are developing gut infections from being up close and personal with another gentlemen’s toilet parts.

Now we know there are all kinds of ways to get your kicks,but what’s important is knowing how to get them without getting sick! To make sure you get the best possible sex with the minimum risk to your health (and anyone else’s) there are a few things you need to be ever-vigilant about.

THE TABOO OF POO!

Images supplied by Pants - www.pantsHQ.com

You can catch gut infections from sex as easily as you can from dodgy food. Men who are into scat or rimming will be more likely to develop gut infections, but don’t often go to their doctor for treatment.

Taboos around cleanliness come into play here. Poo can carry bacterial gut infections including E-coli, dysentry (caused by shigella) and salmonellosis (caused by salmonella).

Gut infections can be passed on by tiny amounts of poo on your fingers and in your mouth. This can happen during: rimming, fucking, fingering, fisting, scat, or handling used dildos or condoms.

Symptoms of gut infections can include: diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, farting, fever, blood in the diarrhoea, and weight loss.

WHEN WORMS TURN Some gut infections are caused by parasites, such as threadworm, amoebiasis and giardiasis. With threadworms, you might feel

ANDREW GILLIVER looks at the facts behind Shigella a gut infection that is on the rise in gay men PLUS how to be safe when poo is in play!

itching around and inside your arse, or even see the worms in your poo. Threadworms are caused when the invisible worm eggs get on your fingers and then into your mouth.

With threadworms you don’t need to see a doctor. The worms are treated by taking tablets or powders which are all available in chemists without a prescription, and at a low cost.

AND THIS IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE… Some gut infections might not cause symptoms for the carrier, but can cause severe illness when another person picks them up, especially if they have a weakened immune system.

Poo on broken skin allows any germ a direct way into the bloodstream. Poo in the mouth carries the main health risk. Tiny amounts can stay on the hands or under nails after scat play. Poo might sometimes also have blood in it, as the arse might be bleeding. If it comes into contact with cut skin, there could also be a risk that HIV or hepatitis B or C is passed on. Another good reason to make sure you had you Hep B jabs.

Some untreated gut infections can last many months, eventually causing serious damage to organs like the liver. Gut infections can also cause serious problems if HIV has weakened your immune system. Sometimes the infections can be very difficult to get rid of.

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

WHAT TO DO ABOUT THE POO? Some of the easiest bugs to catch can be among the nastiest, but thankfully they can be the easiest to guard against.

Hands and under fingernails should be thoroughly washed after poo-play with soap and warm water. You should also wash your hands after handling used condoms or after sex involving arse play.

You can prevent gut infections by: avoiding contact with tiny amounts of poo during sex; using non- latex gloves for fisting and fingering; or a condom cut into a square for rimming if you don’t have a dam to hand.

GET TESTED! If you think you’ve got a gut infection from sex don’t just ignore it, go and see your doctor. Rememberyou’ll need to say you’ve been in contact with faeces so that your doctor knows which tests to carry out. Any partners should also be checked and/or treated to stop you being re-infected.

Antibiotics have to be used for some infections. Anti-diarrhoea treatments may make some gut infections worse.

Hepatitis A vaccination is strongly recommended for men into scat. Blood on poo should also be checked out by a doctor as it can be a symptom of a serious condition.

FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN GET TESTED BY VISITING www.lgf.org.uk/testing

PETER BOYLE SEX TALK

Recently HIV has been in the news.

Strange that it should be such a strange thing to see, when HIV should really always be in the news. Lord Fowler, who ran the much cited 1980s “Don’t Die of Ignorance” campaign, was on record as saying that the UK’s HIV efforts were “woefully inadequate”.

Factsheets on Bacillery Dysentry (Shigella), Hand Washing guides from the Health Protection Agency and much more: http://bit.ly/qChhHn Facts about sexual health, recreational drug use, info about sex acts and rough sex for men who have sex with men: www.hardcell.org.uk

SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION

For those of us that work in HIV prevention, this news is sometimes difficult to hear, especially when so much of our time is invested in thinking of new ways to get the message across that HIV is best avoided. It is also difficult to try and make this point without fear of adding to the huge amount of stigma that HIV positive people face everyday. Lord Fowler said in his interview that HIV is not “remotely consequence free”, this is probably an understatement. It isn’t just the virus itself, the blood tests, the medication, when to start medication, the side effects, or the worry, it is also the stigma. In many ways, the stigma is more damaging than the virus when there is access TO DIAL THIS NUMBER NOW to treatment.

SCAN

Prevention is the key; the old saying that “prevention is better than cure” is definitely applicable in this case, particularly as there is no cure. Treatment is available, and is arguably better than ever, with people who are HIV positive living relatively normal lives. But here’s the thing, if you can prevent something then you should try to. LGF gay men’s safer sex packs are available in every bar in the gay village, and across Greater Manchester in a number of different outlets.

Wearing a condom and using water based lube should be commonplace with all new partners; it really is one of the best ways to look after your health. Other infections can be passed on more easily than HIV, so regular sexual health check ups are also encouraged.

To see HIV in the mainstream news can only be a good thing, the more it is back on the agenda the more people will hear the message. HIV prevention is key, and encouraging the use of condoms and lube amongst gay and bisexual men has never been more important.

The other thing that is just as important is for gay and bisexual men to know their HIV status.

Together we can halt the spread of HIV, and it really is everyone’s responsibility.. peter.boyle@lgf.org.uk www.lgf.org.uk OUTNORTHWEST 37

Photo: Paul Jones (Exposure)

HIV: Back on the agenda?

GET IN!

VILLAGE DOJO! Jacob Sibley wants more lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people to try martial arts. So he’s started a new Ju Jitsu club in Manchester’s Gay Village!

What motivated you to start Ju Jitsu Village Manchester Dojo?

I was at the Gay Games and saw a lot of Ju Jitsu clubs there and just thought why haven’t we got one to compete? I run a group in Chorlton – which mainly straight males come too, and thought why not do something for the LGBT community.

Can anyone attend?

It’s open to anyone. Whatever your body shape – there are advantages and disadvantages. It will be a mixed training session; it’s good for people to be in an environment with lots of different people.

People have said that they love the idea, but are worried about going into martial arts clubs for fear they’ll be too aggressive. The Village Dojo will be taking place downstairs at Taurus and everyone will be at the same level.

Is it like self defence?

Ju Jitsu as an art form focuses on training not fitness. There is a lot of technique, but self defence is a part of it and it’s all about awareness.

What will people need?

To start off with just a tracksuit and a pair of light trainers. If people get more into it, they could buy a gi (the garment Jacob is wearing in the picture).

“Don’t worry about fitness, age or who you are going to meet. We’re friendly, not like the baddies in the karate kid!”

Are there weapons?

There are sticks and swords used in Ju Jitsu. And we will be covering sword fighting in later sessions.

What would you say to encourage people to get involved?

Don’t worry about fitness, age or who you are going to meet. Everyone will be a beginner, and if anyone does have some martial arts experience they can help others out. We’re friendly, not like the baddies in Karate Kid! And you’ll be respected for who you are.

You’ll be learning a different skill and gaining new experiences. Also, there is a sense of belonging in a club – just look at all the established gay sports groups; there is a real sense of togetherness and that’s a really big part of it for me.

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

What about the future?

I’d love to see a Manchester Ju Jitsu team at the Gay Games.

The Manchester Village Dojo takes place every Tuesday downstairs at Taurus (7pm), Canal Street, Manchester. Sessions cost £4.00 for more information visit: www.facebook.com/villagejujitsu

SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION

HOMOPHOBIA IN SPORT

FOOTBALLER SUPPORT GOVT SPORTS CHARTER Efe Sodje, the Bury and Nigerian defender has become the first professional football player to sign up to the Government’s charter for action against homophobia and transphobia in sport.

The footballer joined Senior Executive of Equality - Simone Pound and founder of Just a Ball Game? Lindsay England at the PFA’s Head Quarters in Manchester where Efe signed the Charter. Efe highlighted “how tough things will be for the next professional player in football from the UK to ‘come out’ as they continue their playing career’’, and how much ‘’intrusion and unnecessary attention there will be from the press and media’’, and thinks ‘’the player will have to be very brave and strong’’. He believes that from a professional game perspective ‘’the player would be accepted within a dressing room environment, and that team mates he hopes would be supportive.’’ http://sodjesportsfoundation.com/

TELL US YOUR SPORTING NEWS! Are you part of an LGB&T sporting group in the north west? Let us know what you’re up to and we’ll let our readers know! Just e-mail your news to: joanne.dunning@lgf.org.uk

Gay Rugby Team Top of the Table

Image: www.citylife.co.uk

Two pages of sport and fitness every issue supported with enthusiasm by

As outnorthwest goes to print - The Village Spartans - the North West’s only gay and inclusive rugby team - are currently top of their league after 3 consecutive victories.

They are first in the University of Salford Division 5 East on points difference after wins against Tyldesley 3 (14 – 36), Littleborough 3 (24 – 14) and Aldwinians 5 (76 – 10).

“This is a great start to a very important season for the Spartans as we gear up to host the Bingham Cup in June 2012” said Matthew Whitely, 1st team captain.

The 2012 Bingham Cup (commonly referred to as the “Gay Rugby World Cup”) will take place in Manchester, UK, between 1st and 3rd June 2012.

“We’ve had a massive influx of new players and interest shown in the club since we announced that we beat Sydney in the bid to host the Bingham Cup. It’s great that we’re putting gay sport and rugby in general on the map for the whole world to see and we’re looking forward to developing a 2nd team from the new recruits that we’ve attracted so far.” Said Dean Bee, 1st team vice captain.

The Village Spartans train on Monday and Wednesday evenings 7-9pm and play on Saturdays.

They’re always looking for new players. For more info visit: www.villagespartans.co.uk

www.lgf.org.uk OUTNORTHWEST 39

greater manchester

Manchester

Free Safer Sex Packs available at most venues

88 Listing Indicator

£ Portland Street

Major Street

Hart Street

17

42 44 41

16

33

10

32

7

20 30 23

et

tre nS

tou Ay

18

38

£

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,

Baa-Bar 27 Sackville Street, 0161 247 7997, glitter balls and a flashy dance floor, baabar.co.uk 3

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

43 21

Eden 3 Brazil Street, 0161 237 9852, food served daily, edenbar.co.uk 50 Essential 8 Minshull St, 0161 835 1300, nightclub over three floors.

Venues Key

Mixed

Mainly Men

6

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

Club Fizz Charlton Club, women only 2nd Friday of the month, 9pm-1am £5, see facebook

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

40 The Parlour Richmond St, theparlourmanchester.com

Club HD Arch 66, Whitworth St West, gay/mixed bar/club Friu & Sat nights, hdclubbing.com

Mint Lounge Gay Friendly 46-50 Oldham St, 0161 228 1495, trendy bar, mintlounge.com

18 Overdraught Student 121 Princess Street, 0161 237 0811

12

£

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

8 company bar Only 28 Richmond St, 0161 237 9329, companybarmanchester.co.uk

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

Piccadilly Train Station

Please email any new or updated listing to: listings@lgf.org.uk

17 New York New York 94 Bloom St, 0161 236 6556, busy fun pub, popular with lesbians and gays of all ages.

11

e

an

24 The New Union 111 Princess St, 0161 228 1492 newunionhotel.com

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

10 Crunch 10 Canal Street, 0161 236 0446, crunchbar.co.uk

in Ch

13 Eagle 15 Bloom Street, 0161 228 6669, open daily from 5pm till late. eaglemanchester.com

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

Coyotes 14 Chorlton Street, 0161 236 4007, pleasant two floor bar, coyotesbar.co.uk

25 14

Whitworth Street

Napoleons 35 Bloom St, 0161 236 8800, welcomes all LGB&T customers, napoleons.co.uk

9

46

London Road

34

Whitworth Street

ck

Ba

Canal Street

28

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Richmond Street

40

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Canal Street

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Chorlton Street

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Princess Street

22

Bloom Street

13

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24

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Major Street

Minshull Street

2

(Free City Centre Bus)

Chorlton Street Bus/Coach Station

27 Abingdon Street

1

Chorlton Street

Sackville Street

Princess Street

11

Train Station Metrolink Stop Metroshuttle Stop

Portland Street

16

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

CLub lash Fetish at Legends, 2nd Friday of the month clublash.com

27 Thompsons Arms 23 Sackville Street, 0161 237 5919.

Eager Beaver at Manto Bar Lounge, Friday’s

4 tonic 34 Canal Street, 0161 236 5757, intimate and modern bar serving drinks and food.

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

Tribeca Gay Friendly 50 Sackville Street, 0161 236 8300, New York style lounge, tribeca-bar.co.uk 28

19

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

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

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

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

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

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

22 Spirit Canal Street, 0161 237 9725, lively and modern three-floor bar, spiritbar.uk.com 23 Taurus 1 Canal St, 0161 236 4593, taurus-bar.co.uk

The Bay Horse 35-37 Thomas St, 0161 661 1041, a traditional gay friendly pub, thebayhorsepub.co.uk

Mainly Women

All information provided by venues. Please check before arrival

Mainly Trans

Bar

Mish Mash Cabaret Circle Club, every 2nd Friday of the month, 8pm £8, mishmash1.com Morning Glory at Queer, after hours every Saturday

Organic at Spirit, after hours every Sat.

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 Serves Food

Man Bears present Hairy! Bear at Legends, 2nd Saturday of the month manbears.co.uk

open mic night Women Only LGBT Centre, 49-51 Sidney St, 0161 273 7128, Women only & alcohol free, last Wed of the month, 7-10pm, £1 admission. kerry.maskell@lesbiancommunityproject.co.uk

32 View 40 Canal St, 0161 236 9033

Dance Floor

Homoelectric at Legends, 1st Friday every other month homoelectric.com

Cash Point

POPTASTIC Pop/Indie at Alter Ego, 07974 248 247 poptastic.co.uk Pretty in Pink 80’s club night RECREATION clubrecreation.co.uk Outdoor Seating

Disabled Access

UPDATING! Listings are currently being expanded and updated!

Community & Health 33 Albert Kennedy Trust Number 5, Richmond Street, 0161 228 3308, providing supported lodgings, mentoring, be-friending and information and advice to young LGBT people, admin@akt.org.uk

Eclypse Lifeline 73 Ardwick Green North, Ardwick, 0161 273 6686, young persons drug & alcohol support service, MonFri 9-5, Thurs 9-7, fiona@eclypse-yps.org.uk

Kath Locke Centre 123 Moss Lane East, Hulme, 0161 455 0211, traditional & complimentary medicine.

Self Help Services Zion Community Resource Centre Stretford Rd, 0161 226 3871, mental health services, selfhelpservices.org.uk

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) Number 5, Richmond Street, 0845 3 30 30 30, 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

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

49 Gayter Hairdressing 57 Hilton Street, 0161 236 1128, hair salon, gayterhairdressing.com

Helen smith FUNERALS 07870 541668, funerals that are individual fitting and true, helensmithfunerals.co.uk

BARNArDOS MANCHESTER LEAVING CARE SERVICES 36 Monton Street, 0161 226 6722, barnardos.org.uk Black Health Agency 464 Chester Rd, 0161 226 9145, AIDS Helpline: 0800 0967500, blackhealthagency.org.uk Body Positive 39 Russell Road, Whalley Range, 0161 882 2200, bpnw.org.uk

42 NICE ‘N’ NAUGHTY 39 Bloom Street, 0161 228 0020

Community Alcohol Team 0161 230 6382, manchestercat.org

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

Community Arts North West 46-50 Oldham St, 0161 234 2975 can.uk.com

Pants 3rd Floor, Aflecks Palace, 07816276925, men’s designer underwear store, pants.uk.com

Crisis Point 24 Albert Road, Levenshulme, 0161 225 9500, mental health support & short term crisis accomodation, turning-point.co.uk

Pink Counselling Roger: 07506924801, gay male Therapeutic Counsellor working in Didsbury & Altrincham.

George House Trust 77 Ardwick Green North, 0161 274 4499, ght.org.uk

ProBalance Personal Training 0161 833 4777, gay friendly personal training gym in the City Centre, pro-balance.co.uk Pure Tanning and Village Off License 37-39 Bloom St, 0161 236 1788 44

QueensClean.co.uk Gay owned cleaning service. 0753 329 2451/ 0161 298 0335, queensclean@2die4.com 45 ROB 17 China Lane, 0161 236 6222, for all your leather, rubber and twisted gear, rob.com

room to relax @ Fitness First, 7-11 Lower Mosley St, 07815672235, We offer a wide range of holistic treatments.

Spa Satori 0161 819 2465, 112 High St, holistic health & beauty spa, spasatori.co.uk UPPERCUTS BARBERS The Arndale Market, 07784 156 693

Gregory’s Place 69 Ardwick Green North, 0161 273 2901, support for children and young people with HIV gregorysplace@barnardos.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 Manchester Smoking Cessation 0161 205 5998 Pankhurst Centre 60-62 Nelson Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock, 0161 273 5673, pankhurstcentre.org.uk St. Mary’s Centre New St. Mary’s Hospital, Hathersage Road, 0161 276 6515, sexual assault referral centre, stmaryscentre.org

Hotels & B&B’s

The Lesbian Community Project 49-51 Sidney Street, 0161 273 7128, manchesterlep.org.uk

City Inn Manchester One Piccadilly Place, Auburn Street, 0161 242 1000, cityinn.com

ThE Manchester Foyer 61 Booth St West, Hulme, 0161 276 1000, supported accomodation for young people 16-25’s, svha.co.uk

LIVEBAIT Gay Friendly 22 Lloyd Street, 0161 817 4110, santeonline.co.uk

CLYDEMOUNT GUEST HOUSE 866 Hyde Rd, Debdale Park, 0161 231 1515, bookings@clydemount.co.uk clydemount.co.uk

The Village Citizen Advice Bureau 25a Hankinson Way, Salford Precinct, 0161 834 2005, employment services for LGB&T people thevillage.org.uk

SAPPORO Teppanyaki 91-93 Liverpool Road, 0161 831 9888

46 INTERNATIONAL HOTEL Gay 34 London Rd, 54 bedrooms, 0161 236 1010

Clinics

38 Shang Hi Gay Friendly 61 Whitworth St, 0161 228 7868

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

Jarman Clinic Withington Hospital, 0161 217 4939

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

Saunas

North Manchester GUM Delaunays Rd, Crumpsall, 0161 720 2681

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

North Manchester Hospital Same day HIV test clinic, 0161 720 2845

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

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

Becky Johnson Counselling 07841 837029, Experienced individual and couples counsellor. M2 and SK9 locations. integrative-psychotherapy.eu

Central Manchester Osteopathy & Sports Therapy Friends Meeting House, 6 Mount St, 0786705385, help relieve your aches by looking at the bigger picture, centralmanchesterosteopathy.com 39 Clone Zone 36-38 Sackville Street, 0161 236 1398, clonezone.co.uk

Dr Phil Tyson 0161 256 1890, Men’s Psychotherapist and relationship counselling. menstherapy.co.uk ESSENCE COUNSELLING info@essencecounselling.org www.essencecounselling.org

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 Alcohol and Drug Services 29a Ardwick Green North, 0161 272 8844 alcoholanddrugservices.org.uk Barnardo’s Health Through Action The Progress Centre, Charlton Place, Ardwick Green, 0161 273 2901

Rusholme Health Centre Walmer Street, 0161 225 6699 outreach Clinic @ the LGF and 4 other locations, Mondays, no appointment needed, 0845 3 30 30 30, lgf.org.uk Rapid HIV Testing @ the LGF Thurs 4-6pm, no appointment needed, results in 20 mins, 0845 3 30 30 30, lgf.org.uk the hathersage centre 280 Upper Brook St, 0161 276 5200 / 5212

Groups 35+ Lesbian & Bi Women LGBT Centre, 49-51 Sidney St, 0161 273 7128, for 35+ women to socialise and makre freinds away from the scene, meets every Wed 1-4pm, kerry.maskell@lesbiancommunityproject.co.uk 40+ GAY MENS GROUP 0845 3 30 30 30, support and social group meets every Thursday 7.30-9pm.

Let's Do Lunch

supported by:

Meet at 2pm, 2nd Sunday of every other month in Manchester’s Gay Village.

Next Meetings: 11th September and 13th November Enjoy a lazy Sunday afternoon, chill & chat over good food and a bottle of wine.

For info or to reserve a place: Tel: 0781 308 3242 email: paula650@aol.com www.lesbiandiners.co.uk 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 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.

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

Edward carpenter community of gay men fortnightly meetings for gay men support, trust and friendship - also longer breaks away, gaycommunity.org.uk friends of sackville gardens 0845 3 30 30 30, Meets monthly to plan improvements, maintenance and new planting in Sackville Gardens, emma.peate@lgf.org.uk Gaydio 1st Floor, Portland Tower, Portland Street, info@gaydio.co.uk Gay in the uk Refugee Action, 23-37 Edge Street, 07824 473 479, LGBT social group for refugees & asylu seekers, 1st Tue of the month 6pm, lgbtsocial@yahoo.co.uk gay MARRIED MENS GROUP A support group meets 1st and 3rd Tuesday 7.30-9pm at the LGF, 0845 3 30 30 30 Gay Naturist SWIM all ages, nude_n_manchester@yahoo.co.uk Icebreakers gay & bi men's support group meets 8pm every Wednesday at the LGF, 0845 3 30 30 30, icebreakersmanchester.org.uk Imaan @ The LGF, 0845 3 30 30 30, for LGBTQI Asian men 1st Thurs of the month 7.30-9.30pm, imaan.org.uk Inner Enigma 0845 838 1264, trans and intersex support and advice, info@innerenigma.co.uk KESHET Advocacy, education and support service for jewish LGB&Ts, 07528 700 926, info@keshetmanchester.org.uk Lesbian and Gay Youth Manchester (LGYM) LGBT Centre, 49-51 Sidney St, 0790 0680725, young LGBT people, 14-25, Tues 7.30-10pm, Sat 3-7pm info@lgym.org.uk lesbian asylum group LGBT Centre, 49-51 Sidney St, 0161 273 7128, for LB women who have gained or are attempting to gain asylum status. kerry.maskell@lesbiancommunityproject.co.uk lesbian discussion group LGBT Centre, 49-51 Sidney St, 0161 273 7128, for LB women, meets 3rd Wed of the month, 7-8.30pm, to debate issues & share views kerry.maskell@lesbiancommunityproject.co.uk

Please note all listings information is provided by third parties. The LGF can accept no responsibility for the quality of the services/groups listed

greater manchester & lancashire Groups Continued lesbian mental health support group LGBT Centre, 49-51 Sidney St, 0161 273 7128, for 18+ LB women and M2F transwomen, meets every other friday. kerry.maskell@lesbiancommunityproject.co.uk

Rainbow Families c/o LCP, 0161 273 7128, peer support & monthly social for current & prospective lesbian parents and their children, rainbowfamilies.co.uk Right2Unite Zion Centre, Hulme, 0161 226 0170, LGB group meets every Tues.

lesbian reading group (& lending library) LGBT Centre, 49-51 Sidney St, 0161 273 7128, for LB women, meets 3rd Wed of the month, to discuss or choose books from the library 6-7pm, kerry.maskell@lesbiancommunityproject.co.uk

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

Let’s Do Lunch 07813 083242, lesbian diners every other month, paulad650@aol.com lesbiandiners.co.uk

sofa (support or fun activities) LGBT Centre, 49-51 Sidney St, 0161 273 7128, for LBT or questioning women, Wed 7-9, peer support and fun activites enquiries@lesbiancommunityproject.co.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 lilac - lesbian cancer support LGBT Centre, 49-51 Sidney St, 0161 273 7128, 3rd Mon of the month, 7-8.30pm, for LB women who have experienced any form of cancer. lilacgroup@hotmail.co.uk lilac.cfsites.org Manchester Christian Group 07743 476191 Manchester Concord transgender Social group every Wed 7pm upstairs bar, New York New York, Bloom St (changing room 5-11pm). mary@manchesterconcord.org.uk Manchester gay skinheads oi-skinhead.com Manchester Lesbian & Gay Chorus 07944 056047, mlgc.org.uk manchester lesbian community project drop in LGBT Centre, 49-51 Sidney St, 0161 273 7128, for LB women, meets 2nd & 4th Thur of the month, 7-9pm, kerry.maskell@lesbiancommunityproject.co.uk Manchester Parents Group 01565 733891 Manchester Rubbermen social group for gay men into rubber/latex fetish, manchesterrubber.co.uk 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

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

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 Ninian’s Church, Wilbraham Rd, Chorlton, 07500 741 955, TransGender discussion & mutual support group, meets 4th Sat of the month 4.30pm, jennyannebuk@yahoo.co.uk

Proud 2 b Parents 0161 226 0162 or 07506 515932, Moss Side Surestart Children’s Centre, 30 Selworthy Rd, for LGB&T parents and their children every 4th Saturday, m.roberts4@manchester.gov.uk queer skinhead brotherhood queerskinbrotherhood@googlemail.com Queer Youth Manchester 07092 031 086, info@queeryouth.net

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

LGB&T police liaison officers North Bury - kevin.day@gmp.police.uk South Bury - andrew.hall@gmp.police.uk 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.

groups

Bury Anti-homophobic bullying group 0161 253 5884

NORTHERN FLIGHT BADMINTON CLUB For experienced players, northernflight.org.uk

bury lgbt networking group residents and service providers improving the LGBRT profile in our town, burylgbtnetworking@live.co.uk

northern jump 07783 297965, volleyball group, northernjump.co.uk

bury Council lgbt employee group 0161 253 6625, lgbt@bury.gov.uk

Northern Wave swimming club 0161 872 1990, swimming for all, northernwave.org

LGBT Reading Group Meets at: Automatic Lounge, Market Street, 0161 253 6625, last Monday of the month 6.30-8.00, i.jenkinson@bury.gov.uk n.franklin@bury.gov.uk

orca divers 125 Manchester Road, Chorlton, 0161 718 3118, orcadivers.com

POG (Proud of Gayness) 0161 253 7733, Connexions, 13-15 Broad St, Bury, safe environment for young LGBTQ people to meet, connexions-bury.org.uk

outdoor lads climbing club outdoorlads.com

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

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

ChOrlTon

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

OUTDOOR LADS gay and bi-sexual lads into outdoor activities, outdoorlads.com

Slam Dunkin’ Divas 07949604610, basketball group for lesbian/ bi/trans women, tue eve, slamdunkindivas@googlemail.com Touch Rugby Call on Paul 07775 022797 paul.scanlon-wells@rfl.uk.com

Sports Groups

Village Manchester FC gay men’s football club for every level, vmfc.co.uk

Absolutely DANCING Trinity High School every Weds 8pm-10pm latin and ballroom lessons for the LGB&T community. absolutelydancingmanchester@hotmail.com

Village Spartans Rugby Training sessions on Wednesday evening from 7pm, villagespartans.co.uk

BELUGA DIVERS Scuba Diving club for the LGBT community, belugadiving.co.uk

WEEKENDERS lesbian and gay walking group based in the North of England, geocities.com/weekenders_uk

Gay gordons manchester Scottish Country and Ceilidh Dancing and classes gay-gordons-manchester.co.uk

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

Marlin Levenshulme Swimming Pool, Barlow Rd, trans swimming group, swim@marlin.org.uk

Connexions 13-15 Broad St, 0161 253 7165, safe environment for young LGBTQ people to meet.

VADA LGBT community theatre group drama workshops & performances, all welcome, vada.theatre@gmail.com

MORF Manchester Lesbian & Gay Centre, 45-51 Sydney St, 0794 824 3289, soial & support for transguys 4th Monday of the month, morf@morf.org.uk morf.org.uk

out to the theatre 01457 877 161, gay men’s social group, joncassun@yahoo.co.uk

manchester walking women its.elly@yahoo.co.uk

aGENCIES & CLINICs

OPEN ATHLETICS Trains on Weds, 5K every 1st Sun. 07709 000 436, openathletics.org

Gay city strollers 0845 3 30 30 30, city centre walking group, info@lgf.org.uk

Out In The City 0161 205 3851, 24 Mount St, Wed 1-4. oitc.wordpress.com

MANCHESTER VIXENS LADIES FC 07921 838 733, LBT football clubs, emphasis on fun, manchestervixens.co.uk

bUrY

trans lesbian group LGBT Centre, 49-51 Sidney St, 0161 273 7128, social and support for LB transwomen. enquiries@lesbiancommunityproject.co.uk

MMU LGBT mmu_lgbt@hotmail.co.uk

Older women’s drop in 0161 205 3851, London Scottish House, Mount St. 1st Tues of the month 2-4pm, social group aimed at women 50+, sue.nzilani@silverservice.org.uk

Manchester Stingers WFC Womens football club for all abilities, helenamcdonald@hotmail.com

GAY OUTDOOR GROUP transpennine walking group, 07855 197607 goc.org.uk Ghap badminton text 07946 191 482, ghapbadminton.org.uk MANCHESTER BADMINTON CLUB 07939 477026, Badminton club for the less experienced player.

wheelies fc Manchester Leisure Sports Centre, mixed women’s football every Sun 11am-1pm.

BoLtOn

pubs, clubs & bars

The Star 11 Bow St, 01204 361113

club NightS

Original TOUCH OF CLASS Womens Disco Tramways Hotel, 307 Blackburn Rd, 07709 185235, A monthly disco for lesbian and bisexual women, touchofclasswomensdisco.co.uk Twisty tuesdays J2 & The Attic Square

SErvicEs

pubs, clubs & bars

THE NIP & TIPPLE 197 Upper Chorlton Road, 0161 860 7330

EaTERIES

CROMA Pizza and Pasta 498-500 Wilbraham Road, 0161 881 1117, croma.biz The Lead Station 99 Beech Road, 0161 881 5559

shops

Pad Gift Shop 105 Manchester Road, 0161 881 0088, pad-chorlton.co.uk

sauNas

inferno 496a Wilbraham Road, 0161 860 6666, infernosauna.com

CLUB NIGHTS

Club Fizz Charlton Club, women only 2nd Friday of the month, 9pm1am £5, see facebook

OlDhAm

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

The Brewery Tavern 42 George Street, 0161 287 0751 THE ABBEY INN Mixed 77 West Street.

CLINICs

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

Manchester Front Runners 07813 336 445, LGF Box 106, Number 5, Richmond Street, M1 3HF, running club catering for all abilities, meets every Thurs in the city centre, manchesterfrontrunners.org

aGENCIES & CLINICs

Manchester jessies Lesbian & bisexual women’s walking group, meets twice monthly manchesterjessies@googlemail.com

MENTAL HEALTH independent support (MhIST) 30 Chorley New Road, 01204 527200, mhist.co.uk

pink triangle theatre St Cuthberts House, Tanners Fold, 07932 928134 pinktriangletheatre.co.uk

MANCHESTER PRAIRIE DOGS 07960 351 882, line dance sessions, every Tues 7.30-9 beginners, 9-10.30 intermediate, manchesterprairiedogs.co.uk

The Parallel 9A Churchgate, 01204 462444 theparallel@bolton.nhs.uk

ROcHdAlE

groups

Sexual Health Crisis Intervention Team 01706 261 954, 1-to-1 support for young people.

Manchester SHARKS Miles Platting Pool, Varley Street, water polo club manchestersharks.co.uk

Bolton Centre for Sexual Health Minerva Road, Farnworth, 01204 390771 HIV worker Emma Massey 01204 390772

Loud & Proud LGBT Youth 07824 541211 or 07918 913937, Meets Wednesdays 5.30 - 8. For 13-19 yr olds, boltonlgbtyouth@bolton.gov.uk

SaUNaS

Pennine Sauna 96 Rochdale Rd, Shaw, 01706 842 000

GROUPS

CLINICS

Sexual Health PROMOTION UNIT 01706 517 613

UPDATING! Listings are currently being expanded and updated!

THE BRIDGE SEXUAL HEALTH CLINIC Stone Hill Block, Rochdale Infirmary, 01706 517 686

People Like Us (PLUS) LGBT Social support group, 2nd Wed of the month at The Arden Arms, 7.30pm, stockportplus.org

GROUPS

PLUS Exercise Group (PEG) 07880 746 079, arranges monthly walks in the Stockport area

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

Hotel

The Britannia Inn 01706 644019, 4 Lomax St

SaLfOrD

aGENCIES & CLINICs

Brook Advisory 55 Regent Street, Eccles, 0161 707 9550 eccles gateway Church Street, 0161 212 5717, thurs 6-8.30pm, drop in. higher broughton health centre Bevendon Square, 0161 212 4500, Wed 6-8.30, Fri 9.30-11.30 drop in. irlam medical centre MacDonald Rd, 0161 212 4500, Wed. 6-8.30pm drop in.

Goodman Sexual Health Clinic Oaklands Hospital, 0161 212 5717, Appt only: Mon 9-11.30am, 1-4.30pm, 6-9.30pm, Tue 9-11.30am, Wed 1-4.30pm, Thurs 9-11.30am & 1-4.30pm, Fri 9-11.30am. DROP IN: Tue 2-4.30pm & 6-8.30pm. starting Out Project Neil 07766 550264 0161 607 1620, Salford City Council’s young LGBT tenancy support service. neil.cochrane@salford.gov.uk swinton clinic 139 Partington Lane, 0161 212 5100, Mon 2-4.30pm, Tue 6-8.30pm, Fri 2-4.30pm drop in.

PLUS Reading Group 07880 746079 The Base LGBt YOUTH GROUP Diverse City, 0161 475 7700, 0161 426 9696, thebase@stockport.gov.uk

SPORTS GROUPS

stockport lesbian & gay dance group Latin and Ballroom dance group, Thursdays 7-9pm. jpguard@hotmail.com

TamEsIde

pubs, clubs & bars

Queen Inn 37 Oldham Rd, Ashton-under-Lyne, gay friendly.

ARDEN ARMS 23 Millgate, 0161 480 2185

CLINICs

GUM DEPARTMENT Stepping Hill Hospital, 0161 419 5370 Stockport Council HIV Social Care Team 0161 474 3636, HIV social care service for people with HIV and their carers. hiv.services@stockport.gov.uk

aGENCIES

GROUPS

Glossop LGBT group glossoplgbt.co.uk

Outloud Lisa Matthews: 0161 336 6615, Tameside youth service 11-19 youth group.

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 Relate 346 Chester Road, 0161 872 0303

GROUPS

Out in stockport Stepping Hill, 0161 483 4784 outinstockport.wordpress.com

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

GROUPS

OrMsKIrk

Blackburn LGB Youth Group Brook Advisory Centre, 54-56 Darwen St, BB2 2BL. 07809 847541, jonny.daniels@brookblackburn.org.uk

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

BACKSTAGE BAR 135 St James St, 01282 414895

GABRIELS Graffiti Club, Bethesda Road, Burnley, every Saturday from 10pm-3am.

CLUB NIGHTS

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

CLINICs

Sexual Health Clinic Royal Albert Infirmary, Wigan Lane, 01942 822 277

GROUPS

Just Us Wigan - LGBT Drop in Centre 11 Newmarket Street, 0756 490 3489, Providing information, facilities and a place to meet for individuals and groups. Open 12.10 - 2pm Mon-Tue, Most Fri from 7pm. wiganlgf123@aol.com, justus01.community.officelive.com OIpen Minds Group 07989 101 459, group for 18-25yr old LGBTQ, openminds-lgbt.co.uk

aGENCIES

PrEstOn

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

CLINICS

Oblivion 12-14 Grimshaw St, 01772 252876

bsure 0845 602 0894, Chlamydia screening for under 25’s, b.sure@bwdpct.nhs.uk b-sure.org.uk Sexual Health Clinic St. Peter’s Centre tel 01282 644300

The Hangout Hammonds Row (opposite Bus Station), 07751 711335, Saturdays 21.302.30 (student nights), preston-hangout.co.uk

CLINICS

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

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

EaTERIES

AGENCIES

Red Triangle Café St James St, 01282832319

GROUPS

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

WIGan

edgehill university LGBT society search on facebook

Blowing Wild Club Grimshaw Street, open Thurs, Fri, Sat, 07752 512232

No Attitude 0161 912 2453, LGB youth group.

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

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

GuyS as dolls showbar 133-135 St James St.

GROUPS

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

O’Neill Patient Solicitors Chester House, 2 Chester Rd, Hazel Grove, 0161 483 8555, oneillpatient.co.uk

CLINICS

SHOUT 01254 300126, young sexual health team up to 25 shoutteam@yahoo.co.uk

E.A.G.L.E. - EQUALITY FOR ALL GAYS & LESBIANS EVERYWHERE 07972 507679, meets Tues 12-2pm at Burnely Town Hall, informal LGBT drop in, e.a.g.l.e_support@ hotmail.com

Central Youth ADVICE AND INFO 0161 426 9696, 1 St Peters Square, counselling and sexual health services for young people up to 25.

B. J. McKENNA & CO 182A Heaton Moor Road, Heaton Moor, 0161 432 5757, bj.mckenna@zen.co.uk

oscar’s bar 25 Victoria St, 07543 900678, gay friendly/mixed, oscars@tiscali.co.uk

GROUPS

wYtHenShAwE

SOLICITORS

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Burnley

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

Age Concern 56 Wellington St, 0161 4801211

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

MorEcAmBe

CLINICs

CITIZENS ADVICE, 0844 644019

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

POUT! 0800 7831524, youth group and helpline, every Wed. pout99@hotmail.com yps.lancashire.gov.uk/pout-lesbian-gaybisexual-trans-youth-group

CLINICS

Groups

sTOcKpOrT

Sexual Health Clinic Blackburn Royal Infirmary, Bolton Road, 01254 687 304

GROUPS

Out Youth LGBT Group East Lancs The Hub, Accrington & Rossendale College, 07895 794850, 14-19 yr olds, 6-8pm 1st & 3rd Tues.

aGENCIES

SALFORD LGBT YOUTH Group The Beacon Centre, 1 London Street, 0161 778 0700, safe space for young LGBT people loads of different activities. chris.rice@salford.gov.uk

Lifeline Project 68-70 Darwen St, 01254 677493, supporting young people up to the age of 25, with substance and alcohol misuse issues, yps@lifeline.org.uk

LeYlAnd

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

WALKDEN gateway 2 Smith Street, 0161 212 5717, Mon 6-8.30pm, Tue 2-4.30pm drop in.

Salford LGBT Network meeting regularly in Salford to socialise and looks at ways of improving LGB&T life in the city, gemma.pagett@salford.gov.uk

Lancashire County Council Blackburn with Darwen HIV Partnership 0300 365 0070, health and social care service porivders for those living with HIV across Lancashire and Blackburn with Darwen.

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

CHOrlEy GROUPS

breakout LGBT community radio group, c.o Chorley FM, lgbt@chorley.fm breakoutshow.co.uk POUT! 0800 7831524, youth group and helpline, every Wed. pout99@hotmail.com yps.lancashire.gov.uk/pout-lesbian-gaybisexual-trans-youth-group

LanCAStEr CLUB NIGHTS

DANCING DIVA For more information, dancingdiva5@hotmail.com

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

drugline lancashire 2 Union Court, 01772 825 684, enquiries@druglinelancs.co.uk Lancashire County Council Blackburn with Darwen HIV Partnership 0300 365 0070, health and social care service porivders for those living with HIV across Lancashire and Blackburn with Darwen.

Preston HIV Support Team Helpline: 01772 468170, PO Box 515, Preston, PR1 8XP, phivst@aol.com

GROUPS

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

Freinds of Dorothy Age Concern, Arkwright House, 01772 552 862, befreinding and support services andrewdrake@55plus.org.uk lancashire county council lgbt network lgbt@lancashire.gov.uk Lesbian Connection lesbian social group meeting monthly lesbian_connection@yahoo.co.uk Pozitive Lancashire 07599 545540, info & advice on HIV to people living in the Lanc. & Gtr Manc. area, pozitivelancashire.co.uk

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

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

Sylvesters (Formally The Vine and Hops) 84 King Street, mixed cabaret bar

uclan lgbt employee network lgbtstaff@uclan.ac.uk

C’est La Vie 11-15 Market St, 01254 691877

THE DUKE OF LANCASTER 75 Church Street, 01524 842843, info@thedukeoflancaster.com

VIBE c/o Young Peoples Service, 07814 493750, LGBT youth group meets Thurs evenings. yps.lancashire.gov.uk/get-vibe

Stagedoor 23 Mincing Lane, 01254 674761

GROUPS

skelmersdale

Lancashire BlACkBuRn

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Bar Ibiza 43 Darwen St, 01254 695379

agENciEs & CLINICS

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

PYRO (Proud Youth Are Out) 07717 301821, 13-25 years, naomh.mckee@lancashire.gov.uk

CLINICS

Royal Lancaster Infirmary Ashton Community Care Centre, 01524 387402

GROUPS

West Lancs LGBT Community Social Group 0845 0046994 (12-5) 24hr text: 07514819063, USA helpline: +1 646 439 0177, includes support for the Romanian community, westlancashirelgbtcommunity.co.uk

blackpool & cumbria 8 31 48

13 21 27 63

30

50

9 25 10

61 General Street

15 14 54 36 12

10

19

35

11 Christine’s 1 Lord Street, 01235 312260, christineshotel@fsmail.net

44

Cumforth Hotel 24 Springfield Rd, 01253 626133, cumforth-hotel-blackpool.co.uk 12

22

41 High Street

Dickson Raod

30 11 3 10 11 Queen Street

gS tre

et

24

K in

18

Milbourne St.

reet

Caunce St.

25

S. King St.

Loepold Gr.

Coronation St.

Chur ch St

88 Hotel Indicator

46 Charles St.

Chur ch St

reet

9

88 Venue Indicator

£

Cash Machine Blackpool Tower Pedestrianised

32 MOUNT PLEASANT 75 Dickson Road, 01253 620362, mountpleasanthotel.com 33

New Bond 72 Lord St, 01253 628123

New Hertford 18 Lord Street, 01253 621831 34

35 North Central Hoilday Flats 29 Lord Street, 01253 621831 36 NORTHERN LIGHTS HOTEL 26 Springfield Road, 01253 317016 37 Northern Star 9 Lord Street, 01253 628073 63 north grange hotel 238 Queens Promenade, 01253 351409, info@northgrangehotel.com northgrangehotel.com 38

Park House 81 Lord St, 01253 314571

PHOENIX 12 Cocker Street, 01253 299130, phoenixblackpool.com 39

Pier View 16 Banks St, 01253 624555

16

FOUR SEASONS 74 Lord St, 01253 622583

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

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

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

Guyz 16 Lord Street, 01253 622488

Homecliffe Hotel 5-6 Wilton Parade, 01253 625147 homecliffehotel.com

George St.

31 Merecliff Hotel 24 Holmfield Road, 01253 356858

Dixon 84 Dickson Rd, 01253 752379

Heatherdale Lodge 2 Pleasant Street, 1253 626268

Cookson Street

12

Topping Street

Abingdon Street

Promemade

34 20

30 McHALL’S HOTEL 5-7 Lord Street, 01253 625661

40

20

32

Reg. Charity No. 1070904

DERBY HOTEL, 2 Derby Rd, 01253 623708

19

Talbot Road 5

08453303030 www.lgf.org.uk

14

13

37

13

Train Station Tram Stop Parking

CHaps 9 Cocker St, 01253 620541

62 Granby lodge 15-17 Lord St, 01253 627842, granbylodge.com

21

61

Camelot 80 Hornby Rd, 01253 620518

7

et

Abingdon Stre

Promemade

1

8 Brooklyn 7 Wilton Parade, 01253 627003

34

62

6

19

Brene Hotel 37 Lord St, 01253 621854

9

15

8 26 16

7

61 Brownes hotel 15 Vance Rd, 01253 753089 browneshotel.co.uk

4

North Pier

61 bradbury HOTEL 25/27 Banks St, 01253 624972, bradburyhotel@hotmail.co.uk bradburyhotel.co.uk

42

2 1

27 7

28

29

31

28

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

Banks Street 55 23 43 57

33

22

Belvedere 77 Dickson Road, 01253 624733, belvederehotel@fsmail.net belvederehotel.biz

51

52

Athol 3 Mount St 01253 624918

5

Cocker Street 60 24

17 58

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

4

High Street

40

1 Anchorage 18 Withnell Road, 01253 341771

3 Astor Hotel 83-85 Lord Street, 01253 290669

Lord Street

Promemade

45

Blackpool Hotels

26

Dickson Raod

39

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

High Street

53

23

Lord Street

Dickson Road

General Street

Promemade

14

20 18 47 Pleasant Street

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

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

Legends Hotel 45 Lord Street, 01253 620300 23

24

Lenbrook 69 Lord St, 01253 626737

25

Liberty's Hotel 01253 291155

Lonsdale Hotel 25 Cocker Street, 01253 621628 26

27

Lyndale Court Hotel 01253 354033

28

Lynmar 74 High St, 01253 290046

29

Mardi Gras 41 Lord St, 01253 751087

Manhattan 27 Cocker St, 01253 290070, manhattanblackpool.co.uk

Please note all listings information is provided by third parties. The LGF can accept no responsibility for the quality of the services/groups listed

41

42 Rubens Hotel 39 Lord Street, 01253 622920 43 Sandylands 47 Banks St, 01253 294670 44 Seacroft Suites 27 Lord Street, 01253 628304 46 Sunnyside 16 Charles Street, 01253 622983 47 SUSSEX HOTEL 14-16 Pleasant Street, 01253 627824

THE Berkeley 6 Queens Promenade, 01253 351244 selfcatering.tv 48 THE GYNWAY HOTEL 205 Dickson Rd, 01253 314747, gynwayblackpool.com 49 The Wilcot Hotel 80 Lord Street, 01253 621101 50 Thorncliffe 63 Dickson Road, 01253 622508 51 Trades Men Only 51 Lord Street, 01253 626401 52 VALENTINE HOTEL 35 Dickson Road, 01253 622775, valentinehotelblackpool.co.uk 53 VIDELLA HOTEL 78-82 Dickson Road, 01253 621201, videllahotel.com 54 Village Hotel 14 Springfield Road, 01253 290840 55 warwick Holiday flats 39 Bank Street, 01253 623787

Waves Hotel 12 Wilshaw Rd, 01253 593312, john@wavesblackpool.co.uk 56 Westfield House 78 Lord Street, 01253 621992, westfieldhouse.co.uk

UPDATING! Listings are currently being expanded and updated!

SMILE SPA AT HELIO FITNESS Newton Drive, 01253 393909

57 WILLOWFIELD GUESTHOUSE 51 Banks Street, 01253 623406, willowfield-guesthouse.co.uk

THE GARDEN PLACE Gay Owned Cropper Road, 01253 699987

Windsor House 47-49 Dickson Road, 01253 206 206, windsorhouse.info 58

59

Groups

Woodleigh 11 Yates St, 01253 624997

25/55 Icebreakers 07875 355 390, gay and bi men 22-25. Meets last Tues of the month, 7-9pm.

Worcester House 22 Cocker Street, 01253 620007 60

Pubs, Bars & Clubs 1

55+ older men’s Luncheon Club 07875 355 390, meets Thurs 12.30pm for light lunch and chat.

Buzz 5 Dickson Road, 01253 649153,

Queen Vic’s Bar 23 Dickson Rd, 07946 528153

HIV/HEP C support group 07875 355 390, call for details.

2 Funny Girls Gay Friendly 5 Dickson Rd, 01253 649154, funnygirlsonline.co.uk

Lancashire Lad’s group (trans f to m) 07875 355390, meets 7-9pm 2nd Tues of the month for chat and support.

KAOS Mixed 38-42 Queen St, 01253 318798, kaosbar.co.uk 3

Lucy’s at TABOO Mixed 69-71 Talbot Road, 01253 622573, lucysattobago.co.uk 8

5 Mardi Gras Mixed 114 Talbot Road, 01253 296262

New Road Inn Gay Friendly 244 Talbot Road, 01253 422691

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

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

lgbt forum 0787 355 390, council led informal community meetings at Town Hall every 2nd Tues 6.30pm.

LGBT PACT (Police & Community together) 07875 355 390, police and community meetings 1st Thurs of the month.

lgbtq darts team Wendy Phizacklea, 01229 836 426, 07742 353 520, wendyphizacklea@youngcumbria.org.uk pro active young gays and lesbians (paygal) Wendy Phizacklea, 01229 836 426, 07742 353 520, wendyp.rorys@googlemail.com south lakes Girls 07952278760 (evenings), Various nights for all trans people or those querying. trans.lakes.nights@ googlemail.com south lakes lgbt forum Wendy Phizacklea, 01229 836 426, 07742 353 520, 48-50 Suffolk Street, 13-24 LGBTQ youth meets weekly,wendyp.rorys@googlemail.com

cArLisLe CliNICS

Cumberland Infirmary 01228 814 814

aGENCIES

Connexions 28 Lowther Street, 01228 596272 outreach cumbria lgbt project 07896 250662, outreach@btinternet.com

GrOUPS

Saunas

Liberty Church North Shore Methodist, Dickson Rd, 07955 597771, libertychurchblackpool.org.uk

Pride in north cumbria 07901 765453, Young people 14-25 meet twice weekly, prideinnorthcumbria.webs.com

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

Ok2be 01253 754841, support service for young people up to 19 years of age, hayley.mills@blackpool.gov.uk

PUBS, CLUBS & BarS

The Alabama Showboat Mixed 1 Cocker Sq, 01253 291155, thealabama.co.uk THE DUKE OF YORK Dickson Road, 01253 625218, traditional pub and live entertainment.

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

Relaxation group 01253 311431 at SHIVER

SaUNaS

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

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

Sugar Lounge 07875 355390, gay & bi women’s group meet 7-9pm 1st Tues of the month

KenDal

7 ROXY’S Gay Friendly 23 Queen Street, 01253 622573, roxysonline.co.uk 9

10

The Flying Handbag Mixed 44 Queen Street, 01253 649155, flyinghandbagonline.co.uk 11

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

14

Buddies Chippy 28 Dickson Street

Cascades Restaurant Gay Owned 82 Dickson Road, 01253 62120, cascadesrestaurant.co.uk 53

15 Café Latté 30-32 Dickson St, 01253 752077

Don Antonio 91 Redbank Rd, 01253 352440

fuel sandwich Bar 33 Adingdon Street, 01253 749813 fuelblackpool.com

Clinics & Agencies Body Positive BLACKPOOL 23 South King Street, 01253 292803, info@bodypositiveblackpool.org 25

City Learning Centre Bathhurst St, 01253 478 309, clcbusiness.com 26 Connect 01253 751047, connectyoungpeople.co.uk 27 Connexions 2-8 Market Street, 01253 754840, connexions-direct.com

HIV Nursing Team 150/158 Whitegate Health Centre, 01253 657171

NHS Walk-In Centre Whitegate Health Centre, 150 Whitegate Dr, 01253 953953

Outrageous 77-79 English Street, 01228 593745, outrageouscarlisle.com Sweat Sauna Club Atlas House, Nelson St.

The Renaissance Transgender Support Group meetings twice monthly, gynwayblackpool.com/ renaissance_transgender_forum.htm Transinclusion group (M2F) 7-9pm 3rd Tues of the month for an informal chat, 07875 355 390

Cumbria AGENCIES

cumbria police hate crime reporting line 0845 33 00 247 cumbria.police.uk

CliNICS

Sexual Health Clinic Westmoorland General Hospital, Burton Rd, 01539 716 706

aGENCIES Connexions 124 Highgate, 01539 730045

Groups

Cumbria LesbIans Network 01539 741 285, 1st Saturday of the month, clnetwork@sky.com south lakes lesbians for lesbian & bi women meeting monthly in Kendal for socials etc & walking groups, southlakeslesbians@gmail.com

wHiTeHaveN

AmBlESidE

Groups

hotEls & B&B's

Chapel House Kirkstone Road, 01539 433 143, chapelhouse-ambleside.co.uk Chestnut Villa Keswick Road, Grassmere 01539 435 218, gay run B&B, chestnutvilla.com

lgbt youth group 07727 297948, 13-25 lgbt youth meets every Tues

WInDerMerE HOTELS & B&B's

16

Mandarin Cantonese Restaurant Gay Friendly 27 Clifton Street, 01253 622687

richmond fellowship 07876 568260 or 01253 780952, Metal Health support to aid recovery.

Nite Bites Gay Friendly 50a Dickson Road, 01253 627976

Sexual Health Clinic 150/158 Whitegate Health Centre, 01253 657171

sexual health clinic Furness General Hospital, Dalton Lane, 01229 404 464

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

30 SHIVER (Sexual Health HIV Education & Responses Drugline Lancashire Ltd) The Corner House, 102 Dickson Road, 01253 311 431

aGENCIES

Connexions 237-241 Dalton Road, 01229 824052

Sexual Health Clinic Workington Community Hospital, Park Lane. 01900 705050

GrOUPS

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

PUBS, CLUBS & BarS

Solicitors

17

19 The Buttery 1 Cheapside, 01253 296667

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

Shops

BarRow iN FuRNESs CliNICS

Freinds & Supporters of Furness LGBT Community c/o Multicultural Centre, 07833 447604, klwicks@hotmail.co.uk

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

WorKiNgToN

CliNICS

Steam packet inn 51 Stanley St, 01900 62186

Please email any new or updated listing to: listings@lgf.org.uk

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

Evolution Hair Studio Gay Owned 255 Dickson Road

08453303030 www.lgf.org.uk

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

34 Perfect Fit Alterations 42 Topping Street, 01253 290156 Reg. Charity No. 1070904

merseyside, cheshire, yorkshire, staffordshire, isle of man & north west

Liverpool

08453303030 www.lgf.org.uk Reg. Charity No. 1070904

Queer Quarter

Around FACT Tithebarn Street

FEDERATION LIVERPOOL Monthly gay night, clubfederation.com

Bold Street

BROKEN BISCUITS Monthly at Jupiters Bar

Bold Street

Club Nights

Roscoe Lane

15 The Masquerade Mixed 10 Cumberland St, 0151 236 7786, masqueradebar.com

Wood Street

35 Victoria Street, 0151 231 6831

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

2

Berry Street

Piccadilly Train Station

Sports Groups Gay Kick Boxing Armistead Centre, Wednesday Evenings 7-8pm, info@armisteadcentre.co.uk GAY OUTDOOR GROUP 07855 197607, transpennine@hotmail.co.uk goc.org.uk

liverpool lgbt community network LCVS, 151 Dale St, 0151 227 5177.

MERSEY MARAUDERS part of the Gay Football Supporters Network practice weekly, mmfootball.co.uk

16 THE MONRO Gastropub 92-94 Duke St, 0151 707 9933, themonro.com

Liverpool South Gay Dining Club 2nd Sat of month, igdc@talk21.com

Websites

Hotels

Liverpool Students Union LGBT Society 0151 231 4947

GAYLIVERPOOL.COM Website of Gay Liverpool, gayliverpool.com

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

Liverpool Gay Quarter liverpoolgayquarter.com

TRAVEL INN METRO Vernon St, 0870 238 3325

Liverpool Women’s Book Group Meets last Tues of the month, liverpoolbookgroup.com

Agencies & Clinics

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

GROUPS

AIDS Helpline 0151 709 9000

14 The Lisbon Mixed

22-24 Stanley St, 0151 236 6633

et

Back Berry Stre

19

Victoria Street

Gay Youth ‘r’ OUT (GYRO) 36 Bolton St, 0151 203 0824, LGB Tyouth 13-25, gyro.org.uk

Roscoe Place

Culquitt Street

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

Sexual Health Clinic Royal Liverpool Hospital, Prescot St, 0151 706 2620

25 Stanley Street

20 Culquitt Street

Liverpool Guild LGBT Society 160 Mount Pleasant, 0151 794 4165, liverpoollgbt@googlemail.com lgos.org/lgbt

13 Superstar Boudoir

11 Secrets

23 Cumberland Street

18

1

OSQA’S Oldham Square, 0151 709 6611, osqa-restaurant.co.uk

Sahir House 2nd Floor, 151 Dale St, 0151 237 3989, providing free & confidential services to people & families living with or affected HIV on Merseyside, info@sahir.uk.com

10 Poste House

Wood Street

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

et

London Road

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

16

Back Culquitt Stre

Seel Street

Modo Gay Friendly Concert Square

126 Bold Street, 0151 709 3735

Fleet Street

8

1 CAFE TABAC Gay Owned Mathew Street

Seel Street

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

Eateries

Parr Street

12 Heaven Victoria Street, 0151 236 4832

FACT

14

Victoria Street

Slater Street

Duke Street

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

Duke Street

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

13

10

Sir Thomas Street

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

4

9

15

Cumberland Street

Baby D Temple Street

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

12

21

Stanley Street

3

Temple Street

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

Temple Lane

Pubs, Clubs & Bars

Princes Street

£

Train Station Parking Cash Machine Pedestrianised

North John Street

88 Listing Indicator

11

Davies Street

17

Concert Street

8

Suffolk Street

Dale Street

Dale Street

Sweeting Street

Cunliffe St. Hockenhall All.

5

Vernon Street

6

Eberle Street

7

Moorfields

Tempest Hey

Hackins Hey

£

Exchange Street East

£

Tithebarn Street

17 The Armistead Project 1 Stanley St,

0870 9908996, armisteadcentre.co.uk

Open Table St Brides Church, Catharine St, 07780 568 754, monthly eucharist for LGBT Christians & supporters, 3rd Sun of the month, open.table@yahoo.co.uk OUR STORY LIVERPOOL 0151 709 4988, LGBT History community project. info@ourstoryliverpool.co.uk ourstoryliverpool.co.uk Parents & Carers Group 0870 9908996

ElLeSMerE PoRT Tea with Teela (TV/CD social) 0151 356 855, 7pm 3rd Monday of the month at Transpose, trans-pose.com utopia (Ellesmere Port) Whitby Rd, Ellesmere Port, 0151 348 5628, LGB youth meets every Tues 6.30-9, eport@utopialgb.org.uk

SoutHpOrT

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

AXM Southport Coronation Walk, axmgroup.co.uk/southport The Crown 20 Coronation Walk

Shops

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

18 NEWS FROM NOWHERE Bookshop 96 Bold Street, 0151 708 7270, newsfromnowhere.co.uk

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

CLINICs

19

nice 'n' naughty 85 Seel Street nice 'n' naughty 16 Colquitt Street

SPIRIT LEVEL 0151 227 1893, Transgender support group.

St HELens

20

Storm LGBT Christians Level 2, 96 Bold Street, 0151 547 3562, meets 1st Sun of the month 3pm storm@somewhere-else.org.uk

Sexual Health Clinic St Helens Hospital, Marshall Cross Rd, 01744 646 473, free & confidential sexual service, rapid HIV testing results in 30 mins. sthk.nhs.uk

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

SAunas

Gen-e-sis Vinyl Vasement Bar, Lark Lane, Women’s night last Sunday of the month.

18 Splash Sauna 5 Fazakerley St, 0151 236 1001, splashsauna.com

Motor City Puzzle Bar, monthly alt night 1st Fri of the month (Starts oct 1st).

Groups

Please email any new or updated listing to: listings@lgf.org.uk

Being Out with Learning Difficulties (BOLD) c/o Armistead Centre, 0870 9908996, meets every other Monday.

Young Gay Sefton 0151 330 5841

Please note all listings information is provided by third parties. The LGF can accept no responsibility for the quality of the services/groups listed

Velvet Gay Friendly Coronation Walk Sexual Health Clinic Southport & Formby District General Hospital, 01704 513303

CLINICs

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS Flex II Tolver St, 01744 758 439

CLUB NIGHT

WORK Bridge Street, every Wednesday.

Pink Flamingo The Venue, 11-19 Westfield St. See facebook for details.

UPDATING! Listings are currently being expanded and updated!

Please note all listings information is provided by third parties. The LGF can accept no responsibility for the quality of the services/groups listed

tHE wIrRaL

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

DV8 @ The Picture House 46 Conway Street, Birkenhead, 0151 647 8883, Wed 8pm till late, hello@thepicturehousewirral.co.uk Tallulah’s Late Lounge Rowson St/ Victoria Rd, New Brighton, 0774 7561587, Wed nights till late, marion@tallulas.co.uk

CLINICs

Sexual Health Clinic Arrowe Park Road, 0151 604 7339

SaUNas

Dinin’ Divas womens dining group dinindivas@yahoo.com

Please email any new or updated listing to: listings@lgf.org.uk

Encompass 07790904718, 07833114752, 01745337144, LGBT social & info group for Chester & N. Wales, encompass.btik.com

SaUNas

Mersey & Dee Women Social group, madw@merseymail.com Sole Sisters Penny: 07917 533104 or Sandra: 07921 222101, womens walking group. unique tg support group N. Wales & West Cheshire meets 3rd Tues of the Month, 8pm, elen@uniquetg.org.uk uniquetg.org.uk UTOPIA (chester) 01244 602812, LGB youth group meets every Weds 7.30-9pm, chester@utopialgb.org.uk

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

MACcLeSfIelD

aGENCIES

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

Terrence Higgins Trust 5 Bridge Street, Birkenhead, 0151 666 9890, Sexual health info& LGBT affirmative counselling, info.wirral@tht.org.uk tht.org.uk

GROUPS

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

GROUPS

men’s Group 01270 653 156, outrite.org

CheStER

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS Bar 6T9 01244 313 608

Liverpool Arms Northgate Street, 01244 314 807

CLINICs

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

aGENCIES

LGBT Health Promotion 01244 650534 or 07747 631021, West Cheshire - help & support including LGBT health issues.

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

Inn on the Bridge Gay Owned & Run 1-5 Market St, 01422 844 229, inn_on_the_bridge@live.co.uk

Panthers LGBT Badminton/Squash 01782 266998, meeting weekly in Stoke

NELSONS WINE BAR Crown St, 01422 844 782

South Staffs MES MEN Project 01543 411413, PO Box 3919, Lichfield, Married Men’s group, TV/TS group and social groups.

SCaRBoROuGh

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

NOrtHWicH

Yorkshire

GROUPS

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

88 Listing Indicator

£

SaUNaS

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

Parking Cash Machine Pedestrianised

£

Heaton’s Court (front)

RunCoRN

11

3

9

DEVONIAN HOTEL Gay Friendly 4 Sherwood Terrace, Douglas, 01624 674676, thedevonian.co.uk 10 5 1

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Guys & Dolls Showbar Gay Friendly Peverill Sq, Douglas,

CLINIC

Heaton’s Court (back)

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

Blayd’s Mews

8

Halton LGBT Group meets at: Halton Voluntary Action, Public Hall St, meets twice a month on a Wednesday night between 7pm and 9pm, haltonlgbt.co.uk

WARringToN

1 7

Bar Fibre Lower Briggate, 08701 200888 1

CLINIC

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

aGENCIES

1806 Group 11 Palmyra Square South, 01925 241994, initiative for sexual health.

Gay Healthy Alliance Project PO Box 539, 01925 631101

GROUPS

Chester Uni Warrington Campus LGBT Society search facebook

8

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Sexual Health Clinic Lovely Lane, 01925 662476

WEBSITEs

The Calls

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

White Hart Sankey Street, 01925 241994

North West

6

Swinegate

GROUPS

2

Old Red Lion Meadow Lane, 0113 242 6779 4

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

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

7 The New Penny 57-59 Call Lane, 0113 243 8055 8 The Bridge 1-5 Bridge End, 0113 244 4734

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

9 VIADUCT 11 Lower Briggate, 0113 245 4863

FLUID (Freedon to Love Ur IDentity) 07747 473 829

10 Nice ‘n’ naughty 164 Briggate, 0113 242 6967, leeds@niceandnaughty.co.uk

StaFfOrdSHIRE

SaUNaS 11 Basement Sauna

SHOPS

PUBS, CLUBS & BarS Fierce 3 Goodson St, Hanley.

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

The Pink Lounge Piccadilly, Hanley, pinkloungebarandclub.com

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

The Factory 67 Bryan St, Stoke, thefactorystoke.co.uk

CLINIC & agENCIES

The Polari Lounge 52 Piccadilly, Hanley, 01782 212200, gaystoke.com

OLGA 07929 465 044, Older Lesbian, Gay, Bixexual and Trans Association, olga@mypostoffice.co.uk

IsLe oF MaN HOTELS

LEeDs

Parr St.

outrite 01270 653 156, social and support groups, counselling, condoms and lube by post, outrite.org

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Briggate

BP Cheshire & North Wales PO Box 321, 01270 653 150

HeBDEn BrIdgE

LGBT Network 01782 266998, charity providing support, advice for all LGBT & social groups, gaystoke.com

Blayd’s Yard

aGENCIES

GROUPS

GROUPS

Leeds.indd 1

Sexual Health Clinic Leighton Hospital, Middlewich Rd, 01270 612255

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

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

EaTERIES

CLINICs

GROUPS

Gaylife North Staffordshire 0300 1230970

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

GROUPS

WIRRAL DIVAS 0151 666 9890, weekly lesbian and bisexual women’s group.

Cheshire CRewE

CLINIC & agENCIES

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

Sexual Health Halton General Hospital, 01928 753217

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

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

SPACE 01543 419002, LGBT Youth Group (16-21), youth@mesmen.co.uk

TransWirral 90-92 Chester St, 07833 385126, for TS/Intersex, transwirral.btik.com

WIRRAL TRANSISTERs 07833 385126, support/ social group for TV/CD/TS, 1stTues of the month, mazykate@toucansurf.com

Inferno 14 Garth St, Hanley, heatsauna.com/stoke-on-trent

Briggate

Tea Time Special 0151 666 9890, Terrence Higgins Trust, 5 Bridge St, Fri 4.30-6.30pm, safe space for LGBT, info.wirral@tht.org.uk

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

THE GREYHOUND Manchester Road, 01484 420 742

Gascoigne St.

Gay Wirral 0151 666 9890, Terrence Higgins Trust, 5 Bridge St, for all Wirral’s LGBT Community, contact for details, gaywirral@hotmail.co.uk

CLINICs

HUDdERsFiEld

The Centre for Sexual Health Sunnybank Wing, Great George Street, appointments: 0113 392 6724/0113 392 6725, health advisors: 0113 392 6057 YORKSHIRE MESMAC mesmac.co.uk

Just4lesbians.com a friendship site for singles and couples all over the world. just4lesbians.com j4ldating.com a lesbian dating site. j4ldating.com

Groups

Gay North West Camping & Caravanning Club Free club for LGBT people who enjoy camping and caravanning, gnccc.co.uk 12/5/09 12:21:30

Gay Outdoor Group - Ability Group Outdoor activities for people with all types of abilities/disabilities and their friends and family, ability@goc.org.uk LGBT Youth Northwest PO BOX 153, Manchester. M60 1LP, 0753 106 1777, Support & fun projects for LGBT Young people 14-25; support & training for practitioners working with young people, lgbtyouthnorthwest@yahoo.co.uk Queer Youth Network info@queeryouth.net, queeryouth.net Trans Resource Empowerment Centre (TREC) 07513 880647, Trans activities and info, meets 2nd Sat at the LGF, board@transcentre.org.uk transcentre.org.uk trans youth support (north west) 07530 352079, Supporting Trans young people & those questionning their gender identity, aged under 25, through email, phone & up coming Trans Youth Events, trans.youth@yahoo.co.uk

SHOPS & Services

D.C.H.A. Services Dean Cooper: 07534 509108, Help for and training around the needs of disabled people, dchaservices.co.uk

Please email any new or updated listing to: listings@lgf.org.uk