outnorthwest issue 97

THE ELECTION 2010 ISSUE

NEWS•COMMENT •ANALYSIS•HEALTH•SPORT•LISTINGS

APRIL - MAY 2010 ISSUE 97

Registered Charity No.1070904

PUBLISHED BY

10 Ending Homophobia,

Empowering People

www.lgf.org.uk

2000-2010 CELEBRATING TEN YEARS

CLEGG? CAMERON? BROWN? WHO HAS THE

X FACTOR PLUS!

!

H S A B R A E B

T! S E W H T R O N D THE WILD WIL

A service of inclusion and celebration for lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people of all faiths

MANCHESTER CATHEDRAL Reg. Charity No.No.1070904 1070904 Registered Charity

wednesday 23rd june 2010 7.30pm - 10.00pm 10 Ending Homophobia,

Empowering People

www.lgf.org.uk

2000-2010 CELEBRATING TEN YEARS

All are welcome to join in the celebrations of Manchester’s rich LGBT heritage. Celebrate is supported by The Bishop of Manchester’s Advisory Group on Sexuality, Manchester’s LGBT Interfaith Forum and The Lesbian and Gay Foundation.

Service open to all faiths. Free event with refreshments.

For more information e-mail: info@lgf.org.uk

EDITOR’S LETTER APR-MAY 2010

Who get’s yours...?

ED TO ALMOST EVERY WEEK WE’RE ASK NER WIN VOTE. GENERALLY IT’S FOR THE R YOU ’S OF A REALITY TV SHOW. WHO THE E HAV NEXT DOROTHY? WHO WILL FADE CHRISTMAS NUMBER ONE THEN VIVE SUR INTO OBSCURITY? WHO WILL TATING IRRI H TEN WEEKS IN A HOUSE WIT WANNABES? usually And we DO vote. In our millions. And more care ingly at a cost. So why do we seem don’t it, face about voting for things that, let’s that tion elec really matter, than voting in an real and could change everyone lives in very long lasting way? ugh OK, it’s a bit more difficult cutting thro e we’v rust the rhetoric and general mist than ths had of politicians in recent mon or it is to vote for someone who irritates . her Brot Big pleases us on The X Factor or

to our We don’t often get clear-cut answers s, ician polit from erns questions and conc the to get to t effor e mor and it takes a little LGBT on d stan ies part core of where the erights. But the information is out ther ht insig for site web ll’s check out Stonewa s issue LGBT on rds into MP’s voting reco why Or ple. exam for ) rg.uk (www.stonewall.o issue very this in s view not read the inter r of outnorthwest with some of the majo ies. part main the ting politicians represen think There’s some real insight into why they . vote they deserve out DO vote Whatever happens, make sure you sure be can you tion in the General Elec e the Mak be. will ts bigo that thousands of shape help will that vote a next vote you cast e mov us help and try coun the future of this of free le peop LGBT for towards a future even cost discrimination and hatred. It won’t rate. ork your standard netw

EDITOR

MARK EVANS LOVING OUR COVER THIS ISSUE? Mark H. Evans created this month’s cover and is an Illustrator and Graphic Artist based in Manchester after relocating from Jersey in 2009. Currently responsible for producing artwork for Bollox, Manchester’s premiere alt-gay club night, Mark is settling into city life nicely. With a string of other successful jobs under his belt, he’s always looking out for other projects to get involved with. If you see him say hello, or see more of his work at www.markhevans.co.uk.

10

13 } REGULARS 08 THE AGENDA

An in-depth look at the issues affecting us over the next two months. This issue, focus on the upcoming General Election and why it’s so important for LGB people to use their votes. Plus Gaydio launches, and a sneaky peek at Queer Up North.

06 GUEST COLUMNIST

Jonathan Finney from Stonewall on why your vote matters.

07 OUTBOX

Your rants and raves, plus Paul Fairweather on the General Election.

40 LISTINGS

The most comprehensive guide to the LGBT north west.

36

RUGBY SUPERSTAR GARETH THOMAS TALKS TO OUTNORTHWEST ABOUT COMING OUT AND BEING A ROLE MODEL

Registered Charity No.1070904

MISS!

IT’S ALL ABOUT US...

DON’T

10 Ending Homophobia,

Empowering People

www.lgf.org.uk

2000-2010 CELEBRATING TEN YEARS

}CONTENTS } FEATURES

20 THE X FACTOR

We talk to four of the politicians hoping for your vote in the General Election.

Where do they stand on LGBT issues and do they deserve our support?

21 FLYING THE FLAG

How are local authorities and agencies in your area celebrating LGBT life? Find out who is Flying The Flag!

} WELLBEING 26 GHT

George House Trust on positive men’s sexual health rights.

24 BEAR BASH

Manchester get’s hairy this May. We have the lowdown on what’s on and when.

26 GROUPWORK

There’s strength in numbers. Brand new support groups launch in Manchester.

29 LEGAL HIGH?

Mephodrone is all over the news at the moment. We present all the facts you need to know!

} OUT & ABOUT 36 GARETH THOMAS

The only LGBT magazine to feature a regular sports section,this issue we’re proud to talk to Gareth Thomas.

34 FIT!

The LGF’s condom boy Chris Manning joins the team as our new health and fitness columnist. The issue: the basics!

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

}EDITOR & LAYOUT Grahame Robertson }PRODUCTION/SPORT Simon Pearson }NEWS EDITOR Joanne Dunning }DESIGN & LAYOUT Simon Pearson and Mark Eastwood }HEALTH TEAM EDITORS Daniel Gomez and Peter Boyle }WEB EDITOR Marc Robinson }LISTINGS EDITOR Mark Eastwood }DISTRIBUTION Kate Hardy, Marc Robinson and Peter Boyle CONTRIBUTORS Paul Martin; Annie Emery; Andrew Gilliver; Peter Boyle; Daniel Gomez; Chris Manning; Kate Hardy; Paul Fairweather; GHT; Colin Armstead; Samantha Days; Adam Winter; Albert Kennedy Trust; Marc Robinson; Sian Payne; Darren Knight; Rachel Barlow; Emma Peate; Simon Parson; Joe Spencer.

SPECIAL THANKS Stonewall; Gary Nunn; Queer Up North; Manbears; Ian and Toby at Gaydio; Paul Graham; Paul Swan; North Manchester FM; Jackie Crozier; Stephen Twigg; Matt Sephton; Lynne Featherstone; Caroline Lucas; Paul Jones; James Coleman; Bearpix; Barry Davies; Shaun and Steve Godwin Rotherham; DJ Mikey; Gerard Gudgion; Gareth Thomas; and to all of our supporters.

ADVERTISING For information on advertising in outnorthwest, please contact us on 0161 235 8035. Or e-mail grahame@lgf.org.uk DISCLAIMER

Publication of the name or photo of any person in this magazine should not be taken as any indication of the sexual orientation or HIV status of that person.

All views expressed in outnorthwest are not necessarily those of the Editor or The Lesbian & Gay Foundation. outnorthwest recognises all copyrights. Where possible, we have acknowledged the copyright holder. Contact us if we have failed to credit your copyright and we will happily correct any oversight.

See you in the foam!

guest columnist

Jonathan Finney

Use your vote!

Thousands of bigots will...

In the unlikely event you’d failed to notice, we’re in a general election year. The date’s due to be announced shortly but polling day is widely expected to take place on Thursday 6 May – and it has to take place by 3 June.

At Stonewall, we know that lesbian, gay and bisexual people decide who to vote for based on a whole range of different factors. The economy, public spending and employment are at the forefront of everyone’s mind. Just like the rest of the population, gay people will vote for parties right across the political spectrum. And openly lesbian and gay candidates are standing for election for many of them.

But in the countdown to the next election, Stonewall’s launched a new campaign to encourage not just gay people but anyone who supports equality to use their vote and to reflect on what the candidates in their area would do for gay people if they got into Parliament.

In the last few months we’ve seen all the main parties more determined than ever before to stress their gay-friendly credentials, with party leaders publicly declaring their personal commitment to equality. The so-called pink vote is clearly an important target – with an estimated 2.8 million gay voters across Britain it’s not difficult to see why. Last autumn saw the Conservatives head to Manchester for their annual conference, hosting the party’s first ever official gay conference event. Widespread support for lesbian 06

“In the last few months we’ve seen all the main parties more determined than ever before to stress their gay friendly credentials.”

Pictures: Stonewall held a national competition for graphic design students to produce an eye-catching Stonewall election visual. Here are the winning designs from Hannah Bartlett from West Wales School of the Arts and Adam Hypki from the London College of Communication.

and gay equality is an important step in itself, but how can voters be sure what their local candidates think? We’ve just published the voting records on the Stonewall website of every current MP on key equality votes since 2005, throughout the current parliament.

Across all the parties there are supporters of equality – and opponents.

We hope that providing this clear, impartial information will help people make up their minds.

We’ve also published questions that people might want to put to their candidates during the election campaign, as parties and politicians hit the phones and doorsteps this spring. Earlier this year we contacted all of the main parties with our key manifesto asks to help ensure continued progress towards full equality for lesbian, gay and bisexual people. Our election demands to all parties include;

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

Committing to full implementation of the new Equality Act to end second-class treatment for gay taxpayers by public services Supporting police forces across Britain to deal robustly with homophobic hate crime Every local authority and school – including faith schools – taking steps to tackle the epidemic of homophobic bullying in our schools The House of Commons starting to reflect the whole of modern Britain – particularly the under-representation of out lesbian and gay people in Parliament Fairness promoted globally so Britain is a beacon to the world on equality Check out our dedicated election pages on the Stonewall website for news and info, including MP’s voting records, Stonewall’s election demands and much more. www.stonewall.org.uk/election2010

OUTBOX }YOUR COMMENTS.YOUR OPINIONS.

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

PAUL FAIRWEATHER OPINION

Pink vote.

As the general election approach es all the main political parties are courting the LGBT vote. We need to vote and encourag e all our friends to vote. If there is a low turnout extremists groups like the BNP will continue to benefit and gain political credibilit y.

JAN MOIR VERSUS THE COMING SOON IN PEOPLE OUTNORTHWEST

}There were 25,000 complaints against Jan Moir’s sneers and false allegations regarding the death of gay pop star Stephen Gately.

And yet, the Press Complaints Commission has ruled in her favour! At the very least, she should have been reprimanded for her cruel comments coming on the heels of an outpouring of national grief from a younger generation who, thank God, have become much less homophobic than that gay hating columnist.

Had she made similar comments about a black or Jewish person, Moir and the Daily Mail would run the risk of being charged with inciting racial hatred. Like the thugs who hang around the entrance to a gay venue looking for sport - she played safe. Her outburst was aimed at a soft target – a dead homosexual. Nice one Jan. After long deliberation, it would seem that the Press Complaints Commission was prepared to overlook her insensitive untruths about ‘an unnatural lonely death’ and a ‘happy-ever-after’ gay partnership being a ‘myth’.

I predict that the sad death of Stephen Gately, and the national outrage which followed, will be seen by future generations as a major turning point in the annals of lesbian and gay history.

Narvel Annable, Derbyshire.

NEED ADVICE?

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

I was talking to a friend of mine recen tly who was telling me he wasn’t going to vote as he thought there was nothing left to fight for. I was disagreeing with him and saying there are still many important issues that need to be tackled.

These include homophobic bullying in schools and major problems with homopho bic hate crime. The new Equality Bill will for the first time place a duty on all public bodies to challenge homophobia and there will be a lot of work to do to ensure that this happens and that it doesn’t become just a box ticking exercise.

We also need to have more openly lesbian and gay MP’s . We have more than many countries, but it’s still a long way from being a true reflection of our communities. Ther e is only one openly lesbian MP in this Parliamen t. However this can’t be addressed in isolation.

We need a more general campaign that will resul t in a more diverse Parliament in terms of gend er race and disability, as well as sexuality .

So, lobby your MP or prospective MP and find out what they think about LGBT equality.

Don’t let them get away with vague messages of support ask them specific questions about how they have voted or how they would vote.

Clearly lesbian and gay rights is only one issue you will need to consider and often isn’t the only or even the main reason why we decid e who we will support. However I believe we shou ld all be as informed as we possibly can abou t where our MP stands on these issues and shou ld not be supporting homophobic MP’s whic hever party they may be in.

We must never forget the battles that were fought to give us all the vote. We must never forget that the changes that we have gained were fought for long and hard. Part of that battle was a Parliamentary battle and needed the support of MP’s We need to keep this pressure up and not assume that all the legal changes we have won are irreversible. So ask questions, tell those in power what you think and what you want. And above all USE YOUR VOTE.

EBOARD

TIC +++ COMMUNIT Y NO

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holistic nch by running a free ion is celebrating its lau ed to ign des is hop rks A new health organisat hour wo LGF in May. The threeand to empower le ilab health workshop at the ava ies rap the ry of complementa one of highlight the vast range health. Stress is arguably ponsibility for their own first res re this mo of e us tak foc to s the s ual individ the 21st Century and form in lth hea l our wil o on wh hts ers the biggest blig al health practition is facilitated by three loc tment trea uss disc n the and workshop. The workshop ct us ys in which stress can affe balist, Tim Moorhouse consider the different wa . Manchester-based her nes ipli disc sen cho ir s; Homeopath, Sarah gen of stress within the pto ada as category of herbs known a on us foc l tment of stresswil , trea IMH MN s to the e homeopathic approache l talk about the wil , DTM ex Davies RSHom, will examin oul Leb aly Massage Therapist, Nat ch. tou ic related symptoms; and eut therap ion and the role of safe a@btconnect.com. benefits of deep relaxat email Sarah at mlgbth ase ple e pat tici par to ent. tm oin If you would like app dis ase book early to avoid Places are limited so ple www.lgf.org.uk

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AGENDA

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

NEWS

} IN DEPTH NEWS, COMMENT AND ANALYSIS. E-MAIL STORIES & COMMENTS: joanne.dunning@lgf.org.uk GENERAL ELECTION 2010

With a General Election on the horizon, are you convinced on who should get YOUR vote?

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With a local elections and a General Election looming (and at the time of writing looking increasingly likely to be on 6th May), the time has come for the UK population to make the huge decision on who should govern the country for at least the next four years.

This Election, more than any other, will have a massive impact on the LGBT community.

Make your vote count There are close to 2.8 million lesbian, gay, and bisexual voters in Britain and it is vital that we make our voices heard and our votes count at the local and General Election – to register, visit www.aboutmyvote.co.uk

challenges still facing the LGBT community – from overturning the blanket ban on gay and bisexual men giving blood to challenging homophobic bullying in schools – remember to vote for equality.

Have your say No matter who you vote for, exercising your right to vote means that you are helping to shape your own future, safeguard your rights and the improve services that are important to you.

Over the last few years we’ve campaigned for, and won, many rights in law that were previously denied to us. There’s a momentum and focus on LGBT rights more than ever before. That’s why it’s important as LGBT voters that we question and understand the policies of all the parties who have a stake in this Election and who are vying to represent us. Starting on page 20 of this issue, we’ve questioned major politicians from the main parties on their LGBT policies, and why we should vote for them. Meanwhile, as LGBT voters there are a number of things we need to think about before casting our vote on May 6th.

Every vote counts After the expenses scandal a lot of people have become disillusioned with politics, but after last June’s European Elections, so many people who didn’t use their vote, told us about their frustration and regret when the results came in. So this General Election, make sure you make your voice heard and your vote count!

It only takes a minute If you’ve taken the time to vote in The X Factor final, Strictly Come Dancing or Big Brother, make sure you vote in the General Election as this could be the biggest vote of your life! Voting at a Polling Station takes 5 minutes and you can even apply to vote by post, find out more at www.aboutmyvote.co.uk. Even the LGF office is a polling station.

Vote for LGB&T rights Lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people are not one issue voters, but when you’re putting your tick in the box, remember the fight for LGBT equality. There are many

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

Be visible – the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans community have made a massive contribution to society, but still we are poorly represented when it comes to Parliament. Using your vote at this year’s General Election might be your first political act, but get involved and stand up and be counted, and we might be voting for you at the next General Election!

Register to vote at www.aboutmyvote.co.uk

IT’S QUEER UP NORTH

p13

Registered Charity No.1070904

Manchester in May can mean only one thing - Queer Up North! Check out our sneaky peak at some of the highlights of this year’s amazing queer arts festival.

GO GAYDIO! p10 Frequency? Check. New home? Check.

Manchester’s only LGB radio station Gaydio is almost ready to launch full time. Get the low down, get involved.

PAUL MARTIN, CHIEF EXECUIVE, THE LESBIAN & GAY FOUNDATION

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ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! Paul Martin on why the time has come for us all to make a difference.

Ending Homophobia,

“Here at the LGF we don’t want gay rights, we want equal rights for LGB people.”

Empowering People

www.lgf.org.uk

2000-2010 CELEBRATING TEN YEARS “We have seen over the last decade progressive legislation that has included unprecedented rights and protections under the law for lesbian, gay and bisexual people.

Today, as we wait for a General Election to be held every one of the major political parties in this country is committed to equality for LGB people, and we would expect them to positively ensure that a candidate’s sexual orientation is not used as a political or public weapon by their opponents.

Currently before Parliament is the Equality Bill, which if passed in its current form, not only consolidates the legal protections for LGB people but also includes the single public sector equality duty. This will require public authorities for the first time to think about and, act upon, the needs of LGB people in everything that they do. We will need to start using these hard won legal protections. We need to learn new skills and start becoming more assertive in demanding that our needs are met. We need to begin the shift from campaigning to complaining!

Whilst some public attitudes have changed, many have not and homophobia is still very much here and present within society today. Many of the LGF’s service users are living with the daily reality of homophobia, and many are living their lives in secret, not publicly acknowledging their sexual orientation for fear of reprisal.

Here at the LGF we don’t want gay rights, we want equal rights for LGB people. The right for LGB people to be ordinary, and to live their lives with dignity and respect. The right for LGB people to be all that they can be and to achieve their full potential.

We want LGB people to have the confidence to be out in all circumstances, when they choose to, and the right not to be judged when they are.

The LGF believes that every lesbian, gay and bisexual person has the right to be accepted for who they are; where they live, by their families and their neighbours; where they work, by their boss and their work colleagues; where they receive public services, by their Doctor, in hospital, within their schools and by their teacher, classmates or by other parents.

LGB people have the right not to be abused, shouted at or beaten in the streets, and not be the victim of a hate crime.

LGB people should be able to be affectionate with their partner in public, and not self-censor their behavior because of fear of what others might do, say or think.

Enough is Enough! The time is right now to take action against homophobia. Over the next four weeks the LGF will be asking prospective political candidates in both the local and general elections to pledge their support to the following actions that they and their political parties can take to support their lesbian, gay and bisexual constituents:

1. Listen, Value and Invest in LGB&T voluntary and community organisations.

2. Combat Homophobic Bullying in Schools.

3. All Public Services to monitor the Sexual Orientation of their service users.

4. Take Action Against Homophobic Hate Crime.

5. Join the Enough is Enough! Action Against Homophobia Campaign. www.lgf.org.uk/enough Any support that you can give will be much appreciated. You might write to all of the candidates in your area and ask them whether they have signed up to these pledges. You might visit your candidates and talk to them about this campaign, or you might ask their supporters if they knock at your door. If you belong to a trade union or if you are involved in a staff LGB group at your workplace, you might see if your colleagues will support and sign up to this campaign too.

Together we can make a difference, and say Enough is Enough!, and Take Action Against Homophobia. “

Paul

With best wishes

For further information about the General Election 2010 go to www.lgf.org.uk www.lgf.org.uk

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AGENDA APRIL-MAY 2010

NEWS

HATE CRIME

YOUR RIGHTS! The Ministry of Justice say that a new law introduced in March 2010 of inciting hatred on the grounds of sexual orientation, is a key part of the Government’s strategy to ensure that people are not subjected to bullying and discrimination as a result of their sexuality.

QUEER RADIO

GAYDIO GET’S SET TO GO LIVE! Get ready to tune in to Gaydio full time, all the time on 88.4FM!

The new law means that people who intentionally stir up homophobic hatred could face up to seven years in prison. The new offence will cover words, behaviour or material which is threatening in nature, and which is intended to stir up hatred against people who are gay, lesbian, bisexual or heterosexual. The law will not prevent legitimate free speech or debate, or expressions of religious belief.

REPORT HATE CRIME: The LGF is a third party hate crime reporting centre. If you want to report a hate crime call the LGF Helpline on 0845 3 30 30 30 or come to the LGBT Police Surgery at the LGF which takes place every Thursday between 6pm and 8pm.

To find out about reporting a hate crime in your area, visit: www.lgf.org.uk

WIN AN iPOD NANO! Fancy a chance of winning a 16Gb iPod Nano? We want to know what your thoughts on hate crime are.

It’s one of those things that people are always asking about, but we want to find out what are the biggest barriers and concerns for you in reporting transphobic and homophobic hate crime so we can help make improvements. Government Office North West have asked us to do the research, so it is something that is really important for the region.

We have been asked to look at people’s experiences in Merseyside and Greater Manchester, but you don’t have to live in either of those areas – you just need to have experienced homophobic or transphobic hate crimes or incidents there.

Log onto www.lgf.org.uk/ hatesurvey to find out more.

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Gaydio, Manchester’s only LGB focussed radio station will soon be broadcasting full time across the city after a series of month long test broadcasts which began in 2006. The frequency to set your tuners to is 88.4FM. With an exciting mix of music, themed shows and news and features aimed at Manchester’s LGB community, we’re sure Gaydio will become a firm favourite when it launches in the early Summer.

We took some time to talk to Ian and Toby from Gaydio and asked them what we should expect.

Toby Whitehouse, Director of Gaydio told us, “The response we had from listeners during our initial broadcasts was fantastic.” Ian Wallace who looks after the business side of Gaydio adds, “It demonstrated there was a real demand there, and I think people are really looking forward to us coming back.”

What can we expect in terms of programming when Gaydio returns full-time? Ian tells us, “In terms of our music, previously we’ve been very much about dance and pop and that will continue as our mainstream daytime format. The great thing about Gaydio though is you’ll hear songs you’ve not heard for a while. We’re also

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

going to have some very specialist music shows musical theatre for example.”

The full team at Gaydio - including presenters - consists of many volunteers. And there’s still a chance for you to get involved. Toby tells us, “I’m meeting lots of people now who want to help shape the future of Gaydio, whether that be through presenting, or helping us publicise the station. And we’re always consulting with the community, so we’re going to establish a listening group who will let us know what they think of the station. So even if you don’t want to get involved as a volunteer and just want to have your say, there will be opportunities there. But if there is anyone out there who is interested in getting involved - on whatever level - just drop me an e-mail. My address is toby@gaydio.co.uk.”

Ian continues, “To add to that, in addition to the full time radio service we’ve also got Gaydio Academy, which offers opportunities for people to come along and learn media skills and elements of radio, and we’re very much targeting this at groups who are under-represented. Just keep your eye on the website - www.gaydio.co.uk where we’ll be announcing all the opportunities that are available.”

Gaydio launches soon at 88.4FM and online at www.gaydio.co.uk.

AGENDA APRIL-MAY 2010

NEWS

SHHHH!

TELL US YOUR SECRETS!

International Women’s Day 2010 has only just gone, but already the LGF are planning for the International Women’s Day centenary celebrations in 2011.

Taking inspiration from the Postsecret project which started in the US, we want to compile a book, aimed at, and written by, lesbian and bisexual women. So if you’ve got a secret - whether it be heartbreaking, humorous, stereotype-bashing, revealing, dark or shocking - get it off your chest.

Your secret will be totally anonymous, we do not wish to know your name or anything that identifies you, all we want is your secret and your artistic talent to decorate the postcard. Be part of uncovering and documenting lesbian and bisexual women’s experience in this exciting new project.

Send your postcard to: Liberate Your Secrets, FREEPOST RLZG-SLUJ-RXKJ, The Lesbian & Gay Foundation, Princess House, 105-107 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 6DD. On the subject of secrets, keep an eye out for The Secret Diary of Anne Lister a new BBC drama starring Maxine Peake. Anne Lister (1791–1840) was a Yorkshire landowner, industrialist, traveller, diarist and lesbian. Despite needing to keep her sexuality secret from society at large, she defied the conventions of her times by living with her female lover.

Anne kept a detailed account of her life, loves and emotions in a fascinating journal, much of which was written in code. A recent deciphering of her diaries has provided astonishing insight into the women who has been called Britain’s first modern lesbian, all will be revealed on BBC1 this summer.

SIAN PAYNE ACCESS TO HEALTH

Getting the best service...

“By taking small steps in being responsible for your own health, you can make a big difference to your own wellbeing, and the wellbeing of those around you.”

How can we get the best out of health and social care services are delivered in our areas? NHS’ are more keen than ever to get patient and citizen involvement, and many have put a lot of time and effort into developing consultation opportunities, like the ones in Trafford that we looked at last time.

There is also more and more time being put into organising events and trying to connect more with the communities that are being served. ou can go along and find out how to give up smoking, how to eat more healthily, how to get immunisations and even what to do when you die – only 34% of people talk about dying with family members and carers.

All of these events are about helping you to help yourself. And isn’t that a good thing? Why not be prepared?

If you can recognise the difference between swine flu and a cold, then you’re helping yourself and the NHS. If you get yourself immunised, you’re helping to keep yourself safe and healthy.

By taking small steps in being responsible for your own health, you can make a big difference to your own wellbeing, and the wellbeing of those around you. It’s not that hard. And your NHS is probably trying to help you, with events like this one.

Why not visit www.nhs.uk to find out about what is happening in your local area. And go on, get involved. It’s good for you!

sian.payne@lgf.org.uk

Break your silence and liberate your secrets!

www.lgf.org.uk

11

AGENDA APRIL-MAY 2010

NEWS

KATE HARDY OPINION

Offensive article...

There are a lot of traits that all people have in common; we all get angry, or sad, and we all experience happiness at some point, and laugh at things too. Another occurrence that tends to catch up with the best of us is our ability to get offended.

To offend someone is to cause displeasure, anger, resentment or wounded feelings, as if you didn’t know already. It’s not a crime to offend somebody, as we have recently experienced with the Jan Moir’s article, interpreting Stephen Gateley’s death as something depraved and sordid.

Although disrespectful, untimely, insensitive and, yes, quite offensive, the Press Complaints Commission let her off.

Not surprising though, as one of the only things the Daily Mail seems to be good at, is offending people and getting away with it.

Offense is caused on a daily basis for most people, it’s lunchtime as I write and I have been mildly offended around twice so far.

Sunday nights are particularly offensive to me, with those Dancing on Ice Maclean

12

“It’s lunchtime as I write and I have been mildly offended around twice so far...”

snogging adverts. Where are the same sex couples? I only want one for God’s sake it aint that much to ask, is it? I will forgive Macleans for now though, as it’s on offer in Tescos.

Yes I get offended, and then I forget about it, most people do. Some people write letters of grievance or moan about it on their status updates, some people get sulky (one of my little habits) and some just simply swallow it up and get on with their lives.

My point? Well, although offence is sometimes annoying, inconvenient and damn right insulting. It’s kind of needed.

Where would we be if we were so scared of offending somebody? Well, issues wouldn’t be discussed, grievances wouldn’t be aired and problems may not get resolved.

Sometimes our fear of being seen in a negative (or even discriminatory) light can disable us from learning knew things about people.

So, think about it when someone pushes your buttons. Offence can be useful, if that fails, count to 10.

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

FAITH

YOU GOTTA HAVE FAITH!

This year the Lesbian & Gay Foundation will be working to promote a series of special events around faith to start to begin breaking down barriers between different religious groups and lesbian, gay and bisexual people.

Now many people would be forgiven for thinking that issues of faith and sexuality don’t sit easily together but there are many faith groups of all denominations that are specifically aimed at LGB&T people that have been running very successfully for many years. It is part of the LGF’s project for the year ahead to reach out to as many of these groups as possible to help promote matters of faith and LGBT inclusion.

The Lesbian & Gay Foundation have received funding from Faith in Action to undertake 2 events throughout the year 2010/11 and also produce a resource detailing and including the many diverse LGB & T faith groups -primarily across the North West but nationally and also internationally where appropriate. There is also an LGBT Interfaith Forum that meets once a month at the Lesbian & Gay Foundation in Central Manchester.

If you would like to know more about this or any other LGBT faith matter please contact : andrew@lgf.org.uk

RADIO

HAVE YOU GOT THE PASSWORD?

North Manchester FM’s new LGB radio show ‘Password’ has now launched and is available to listen to every Wednesday evening at 8pm and Sunday morning at 11am on 106.6FM, or online at www.northmanchesterfm.org Already, show presenters Paul Graham, Annie Emery, Paul Swan and Grahame Robertson (pictured above) have covered topics as diverse as LGB rights around the world, LGB heritage, and whether Glee is as good as everyone thinks it is.

Coming up soon are exclusive interviews with Peter Tatchell and a guest presenter in the shape of comedienne Barbara Nice.

Check out Password every Wednesday and Sunday. For more: www.northmanchesterfm.org

AGENDA APRIL-MAY 2010

NEWS

QUEER ARTS

QUEER UP NORTH Our favourite queer arts festival returns in May with a stellar line up! Grab your tickets now!

Queer Up North celebrates its 18th birthday and takes over Manchester for two weeks with provocative performance, sensational cabaret and a whole lot more. Here are some of the festival highlights...

ROAD MOVIE WEDNESDAY 19 MAY - SATURDAY 22 MAY 8PM LIBRARY THEATRE, £9.50 / £7.50 Writer Godfrey Hamilton reworks this beautiful tale of love, travelling and loss, set against the AIDS crisis of the early 90s, with a tour de force performance by Mark Pinkosh.

HIV & CULTURE SATURDAY 22 MAY 3PM, LIBRARY THEATRE, £3 Despite advances in both education and treatment, HIV infection rates are still on the rise.

Inspired by Queer Up North’s new production of Starving Artists’ Road Movie, HIV & Culture takes an in-depth look at the changing face of HIV and AIDS in popular culture.

PETER GRIST & COMPANY SATURDAY 22 MAY 8PM, CONTACT THEATRE £10/ £6 Peter Grist and Company present a quartet of exhilarating dance pieces that take a stark look at human relationships and how we live our daily

lives, taking you on twists and turns through Manchester’s streets.

guests, including Stockport housewife Mrs Barbara Nice!

EXAM SUNDAY 23 MAY (DOORS 12.30, 1PM START) MAXWELL HALL, SALFORD UNIVERSITY, FREE Knowledge is a weapon and education is the battlefield in Exam, a new commission for Queer Up North, developed by artists Joe Richardson and Jai Redman in collaboration with local community groups. It explores queer political history, power and dissent in a thought-provoking experiment. Are you up for the test? The Exam has been set, but the Ultimate Holding Company are looking for people to sit the exam, markers, and envigilators, as well as audience members to help find out about all the things we never learnt at school! To find out about getting involved 0161 238 8523.

QUEER QUESTION TIME MONDAY 24 MAY 7.30PM,CONTACT THEATRE,£5 Tom Allen, winner of So You Think You’re Funny and the BBC New Comedy Award, hosts Queer Question Time. Joining Tom will be a panel of esteemed thinkers and writers including Linda Bellos, equality activist; Angelia Wilson, Senior Lecturer in Politics and Sexuality at The University of Manchester; Matthew Todd, Editor of Attitude Magazine and homo hero Peter Tatchell.

QUEER UP NORTH’S BIG BIRTHDAY BASH SUNDAY 23 MAY 8PM , THE CARLTON CLUB, WHALLEY RANGE, £10/£8 Queer Up North favourite Christopher Green - the man behind Tina C and Ida Barr - unleashes his new comedy character - magical stage hypnotist Derek Diamond on the unsuspecting Carlton Club crowd and throws the festival a party to remember. A homage to working mens’ clubs, Green will be joined by a dream team of party

AMY LAME’S GRAND FINALE MONDAY 31 MAY 7.30PM, LA GAYOLA - THE QUEER UP NORTH SPIEGELTENT, £15/£13 Miss Amy Lame brings QUN 2010 to a close, with a little bit of help from a cast of shimmering stars.

Queer Up North legend David Hoyle makes his La Gayola Spiegeltent debut with his unforgettable and incomparible brand of biting wit and observation. Joining Amy and David will be Meow Meow, Taylor Mac, Jonny Woo and Bourgeois & Maurice – who are sticking around to join in the fun and who are saving up some special treats that you won’t see in their full-length shows.

For the full line up and ticket info, visit: www.queerupnorth.com

www.lgf.org.uk

13

AGENDA APRIL-MAY 2010

NEWS

“We are honoured that so many highly successful LGB people have chosen to get involved.”

AIM HIGH! BE INSPIRED!

Young LGB people’s inspirational guide finally goes to print. Thanks to you.

Thanks to you, young lesbian, gay and bisexual people are better supported.

It’s been a long journey, but the wait is over and AIM HIGH The Lesbian & Gay Foundation’s inspirational guide for young lesbian, gay and bisexual people is winging its way to schools and young peoples’ settings as we speak.

Twenty of the most powerful and influential lesbian, gay and bisexual figures, like Sir Ian Mckellen, Beth Ditto and Gareth Thomas have given their inspirational stories to encourage the next generation of young lesbian, gay and bisexual people to aim high and achieve in life.

These stories act not only as examples of how LGB people can achieve just as much success as their heterosexual counterparts, but offer invaluable advice, guidance and encouragement.

14

And it has all been made possible by you - the people who donated to the online AIM HIGH campaign at www.lgf.org.uk

YOUNG PEOPLE’S GROUP AT LGF Are you aged etween 14 and 21 and interested in meeting new people and trying new things?

Then why not come along to the LGF’s new young person’s group.

April and May see’s sessions around Staying Healthy and Dealing With Stress. To find out more about the group visit the website at www.lgf.org.uk

Paul Martin, Chief Executive of the Lesbian & Gay Foundation explains: “What makes the release of AIM HIGH all the more special, is that it has been made possible by donations from people who realise the need for a guide like this, which gives young lesbian, gay and bisexual people much needed support and will help them to realise their full potential. “ “A huge thank you goes to everyone who helped make AIM HIGH a reality.”

“We are honoured that so many highly successful lesbian, gay and bisexual people such as Sir Ian McKellan, Beth Ditto and Gareth Thomas have chosen to get involved

FIND OUT MORE...

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

in AIM HIGH, not only are they all great role models, their stories highlight that coming out can affect anyone, but your sexuality does not affect your ability to succeed in life.”

The inspirational stories in AIM HIGH highlight to young lesbian, gay and bisexual people, that sexuality doesn’t have to be a barrier to success. It is also a crucial resource for teachers and other education professionals; many of whom admit to struggling to talk about LGBT issues confidently. We’ll be updating AIM HIGH online with more successful and inspirational lesbian, gay and bisexual people. To see AIM HIGH online visit: www.lgf.org.uk/aim-high If you donated to the AIM HIGH campaign, you’ll be receiving your complimentary copy soon.

To order copies of Aim High email: info@lgf.org.uk

Find out more, and read Aim High online now at www.lgf.org.uk/aimhigh

Registered Charity No.1070904

10 Ending Homophobia,

Empowering People

www.lgf.org.uk

r the LGF

MAY

fo FUNdraising

2000-2010 CELEBRATING TEN YEARS

16 The Great Manchester Run SUNDAY

In just under two hours I ran 13.1 miles. I was the only person in costume.

Apparently the people of Cambridge are too sensible for silly costumes.

Although the absence of anyone else in any form of dress-up may have magnified my embarrassment ten-fold,

Team LGF will be hitting the ground running at the Great Manchester Run 2010 and we’d like YOU to join us! We still have a few places left so if you think you can rise to the challenge and do the 10k run contact joe.spencer@lgf.org.uk for a registration form!

We’d like to say a big Thank You to Tom who ran the Cambridge Boundary run and raised a whopping great £847.00 from sponsorship! Here’s his inspirational story!

“That’s right!” I said. “Everyone’s favourite floppy-haired fool is running the Cambridge Boundary run!” That’s a whole half marathon: 13 miles, 21km, 2500 double decker buses long, 190,000 double decker chocolate bars long. However you measure it, it’s a long ***ing way. And guess what? I DID IT!

!

F O O W

Fundraising is getting Hairy! We’ll be shakin’ our buckets at The Great British Bear Bash 13.

Make sure you mosey on down to our stall at the Bearnanza fair and pick up a Lil’ Grower cupcake! We’ll also be at the ‘Bears at the Birdcage’ event on the Sunday selling raffle tickets for the big bear raffle!

Thank You!

Though I didn’t want to do it just for the LOL’s. I had a real chance to take free reign of which charity I want to raise for, and I wanted it to be relevant to me and who I am. That’s why I chose The Lesbian & Gay Foundation. My sexuality has played a huge part of shaping who I am today, and definitely not by making my life easier. But it doesn’t have to be that way. 20% of LGB people have been a victim of homophobic hate crime in the past 3 years. 40% of all young LBGT people self-harm or attempt suicide at least once. LGF do a lot of much-needed work to help fight homophobia and support kids questioning their sexuality in schools, a time that I found particularly difficult. I am really pleased I did the run, as well as raising much needed funds it felt great knowing I’d completed a half marathon! I didn’t get even a speck of mud on the dress. It did get quite sweaty though. I’ll give it a wash before THE NEXT ONE! If you’d like to take part in a charity challnge but running isn’t your thing them don’t worry Team LGF will be at the Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride and the Great Scottish Swim. So go on get involved! Contact Joe. spencer@lgf.org.uk for more info!

CRUZ 101

E L F F A R

The LFG and Cruz 101 are teaming up for one very special evening of fundraising and fabulousness!

On May 1st we’ll be raffling off some fabulous prizes and who knows lady luck maybe smiling at you! If you’re feeling lucky you can get your raffle tickets in advance from joe.spencer@lgf.org.uk

A BIT WET SLOPPY ONE goes out to AXM who raised £325.38 at their Valentines Day SugarPops! They were also visted by a first time drag

super star in the making Miss Ginger Minge! Happy Birthday Poptastic! We’d like to say a huge thank you to Poptastic for fundraising at their £14th Birthday Bash! Also a farewell and a thank you to Essential who raised a lovely £273.94 at their closing party! Get Yr Freak On! A very BIG Thank You goes out to our friends at Freakshow! They raised a fabulous £194.56! Also a special thank you to the fantastic cabaret night Mish Mash who raised much needed funds for our inspirational new guide Aim High! We’ll be out shakin’ our buckets at your favourite village venues over the upcoming bank holiday weekends so if you see us out make sure you dig deep and fill our buckets! If you’re a group or an individual and you’d like to hold a fundraiser for The Lesbian and Gay Foundation the don’t delay! Contact joe.spencer@lgf.org.uk to get going! www.lgf.org.uk

15

AGENDA APRIL-MAY 2010

NEWS

WE’RE FLYING INTERNATIONAL DAY AGAINST HOMOPHOBIA

MAY

17

Above left: Bolton At Home staff proudly display their rainbow flag.

Above: Chester House - home of Greater Manchester Police show their support.

MONDAY

The LGF is encouraging organisations across Greater Manchester to show solidarity with their LGB&T friends.

THERE AREN’T MANY SYMBOLS OF LGBT INCLUSION AND EQUALITY MORE COLOURFUL, UPLIFTING AND LIKELY TO MAKE YOU FEEL MORE PROUD THAN THE RAINBOW FLAG. This is why it is so important when it is flown in places you might not expect it to be, such as town halls and public buildings, but why isn’t it flown more often? After all lesbian,gay bisexual and trans people live and work in every locality- but often people think we only exist on the gay scene.Here is your chance to show that your local neighbourhood or organisation not only recognises lesbian,gay,bisexual and trans people but actively celebrates us all on what is a very important day in our history.

International Day Against Homophobia On the 17th May 1990 the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from their list of mental disorders. Today International Day against Homophobia exists to provoke action to end homophobia and transphobia all over the world. Last year, to mark International Day against Homophobia 16

for 2009, the Lesbian & Gay Foundation, financially supported by the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA), actively worked to encourage public buildings, organisations and others to fly a rainbow flag in Greater Manchester.

Over 50 buildings, venues, public spaces, took part in ‘Flying the Flag 2009’, throughout Greater Manchester, including town halls, education buildings, police stations, prisons, public spaces and youth centres, as well as many other spaces.

2010 is the second year that The Lesbian & Gay Foundation will be encouraging organisations to take part and increase the visibility of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people and communities and we need your support either to encourage organisations to fly a flag; or even get one flying yourself.

What does the rainbow flag mean?

Many lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans individuals, their friends, families and employers often use rainbow flags or rainbow

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

“Here’s your chance to show that your local neighbourhood or organisation not only recognises LGB&T people, but actively celerates us all...” images as an outward symbol of their identity or to show solidarity and support. The Rainbow Flag is said to originate from the late 1970’s when Gilbert Barker flew a hand-dyed flag in the San Francisco Freedom Day Parade.

There are many theories around the original inspiration for the flag and the meaning of the colours used in the rainbow flag; however the flag remains the internationally recognised symbol for lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans communities, safety and recognition.

AGENDA APRIL-MAY 2010

NEWS

THE FLAG!

WHAT IF...?

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

What happens if I don’t live in Greater Manchester?

Above left: Merseyside Police are flying the rainbow flag!

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO FLY THE RAINBOW FLAG? “Seeing the rainbow flag flying for me makes me feel safer and makes the person or people much more approachable”.

Anthony, Moston “It’s important for people to fly the flag to mark IDAHO, as it shows respect to the history of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans culture, and a commitment to shaping the future, and creating a better society for LGBT people to be part of”.

Rachel, Hulme

HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED

“I think the collective action is really important. It has a lot of impact when lots of different sorts of buildings that don’t normally fly the rainbow flag, all fly it on one day”.

Adam, Old Trafford “It lets everyone (straight, gay or whatever) know that gay people are supported by whoever is flying the flag.This is important because it makes people feel like they belong and like they are part of a larger community (not just the gay one)”.

Sara, Chorlton

In previous years, many organisations in other towns and cities have a flown a flag to mark International Day Against Homophobia; last year Liverpool City Council flew a rainbow flag from the Town Hall, Blackpool Council have previously flown a rainbow flag from the Town Hall… as well as many other areas. (Image of Liverpool and Blackpool Town Hall’s flying a flag).

Whilst the Lesbian & Gay Foundation will not be able to provide a free flag if you’re outside of Greater Manchester; we’d be happy to assist you with sourcing flags to fly in your area.

What if I don’t have a flag pole?

Don’t worry; if you don’t have a flag pole, you can hang a rainbow flag from a window (providing that you have permission), create a poster or even send a picture of a rainbow flag by email to your friends, family and colleagues.

Ultimately, its about raising awareness, visibility and tackling homophobia and transphobia; so you can be creative!

If you would like to take part in ‘Flying the Flag 2010’, please contact Darren Knight, Development Manager at the Lesbian & Gay Foundation on 0161 235 8035 or email: darren@lgf.org.uk. For more information about International Day Against Homophobia, please check out www.idahomophobia.org. Share your images of Rainbow Flags: If you see a rainbow flag flying; please send us a picture including information on the location and how it made you feel. Please send any pictures of rainbow flags to: rainbow@lgf.org.uk. www.lgf.org.uk

17

YOUR WAY

UP

“We want the community to have as much involvement with the festival as possible.”

FOCUS ON: MERSEYSIDE

LIVERPOOL PRIDE GET INVOLVED! Liverpool Pride announces festival theme, with Merseyside’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans community very much at the heart of the festival.

Liverpool Pride will take place on Saturday August 7 and Pride organisers are eager for people to sign up to www.liverpoolpride.co.uk and help shape Liverpool Pride 2010.

Already it has been confirmed, that after consulting over 400 people in Liverpool and online, the Liverpool Pride theme will be Rainbow Circus.

The overall look and feel of the festival will be based around this idea, with decorations, window dressings booths and entertainment stemming from this common theme.

Tommy McIlravey, of Liverpool Pride said: “The plans for Liverpool Pride are 18

really gathering pace and we want the community to have as much involvement with the festival as possible.”

On Saturday 7 August, plans are afoot for a Pride march starting from St George’s plateau at midday and taking in Liverpool’s gay quarter and parts of the city centre. The Dale Street area will be closed off until 8pm for the Pride street party with music, cabaret and street entertainers embracing the rainbow circus theme, before a top secret finale.

The fun is set to continue after the street party, with a number of venues in Liverpool’s gay quarter and the Hope Street area running Pride events, to highlight the city’s diverse gay culture. A number of Pride arts and sports events will be taking place on Sunday 8 August, with Liverpool

FIND OUT MORE...

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

City Council actively encouraging organisations and groups to get involved. Pride Sports are helping to organise a Liverpool Pride sports day at Wavertree Park, and a number of the city’s groups and organisations will be throwing their doors open to festivalgoers and hosting a variety of Pride events.

McIlravey added: “There are four key values behind Liverpool Pride: it must be free, accessible to all, about Liverpool and highly visible!”

“On August 7, we want the whole city to know what’s going on, we want to march down Liverpool’s busy streets and make a visible statement that the LGBT community are here, contribute and have rights too.”

“We want Liverpool Pride to be for everyone, to bridge the gaps between communities and bring people together.”

Get involved and sign up to the Liverpool Pride website at www.liverpoolpride.co.uk

NORTH WEST

HAVE YOUR SAY!

FOCUS ON: CUMBRIA, BARROW-IN-FURNESS

NEW GROUP AND ANTI-HOMOPHOBIA EVENT South Lakes Girls – A new group has started for trans women in Barrow.

For trans/TV/CD women who want to meet up and have a chat in a safe, friendly space where there are changing facilities available for anyone who wants to change on site.

Email Joan on Trans.Lakes.nights@ googlemail.com. The next events will be on 14th April and 19th May.

Survey of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans voluntary and community groups in the North West.

As outnorthwest goes to press an antihomophobia event will be held on 27th March outside Barrow Town Hall (weather permitting) by Friends & Supporters of the Furness LGBT Community (search on facebook). We wish them all the best - The LGF will be doing lots over the next months and years to support antihomophobia events like this one.

If you’re interested in holding something in your local area please email adam.winter@lgf.org.uk

FOCUS ON: THE GREAT OUTDOORS!

GAY OUTDOOR CLUB The Gay Outdoor Club is an activity club for gay men and women and their friends which organises over 500 outdoor and sporting events each year.

The Ability Group is a specialist group and has newly been established by one of our members, we do outdoor events for people with disabilities and their friends and families who are members of GOC. The group focuses on people’s ability rather than disability and works to the social model of disability, we organise all our events so that they meet the needs

of our members. The group Co-ordinator is Dean Cooper, who has personal experience of living with MS. Dean would welcome any feedback from any of our current members or indeed any other people thinking of joining GOC. To enquire about the ability group please contact ability@goc.org.uk To find out more about GOC, visit our website at www.goc.org.uk or write to BM GOC, London, WC1N 3XX.

The Lesbian & Gay Foundation has been out and about across the region speaking to groups about what they’re up to, helping them link up with other groups, and introducing them to the wide range of support services the LGF can offer. What the groups have said so far: “We really need help with evidence – the lack of LGB&T research means it’s difficult to get hard facts into bids for funding.”

“People in Manchester don’t realise what it’s like in other places. We’re based in a small rural town where everyone knows everyone else’s business.

Our group can’t even publish it’s location for fear of trouble. We do have support form the police but our local council just doesn’t want to know, especially when it comes to funding.”

“The LGF needs to realise smaller groups can feel eclipsed because it’s bigger than lots of other groups in the region. I want the LGF to be clearer about what it’s trying to do in my local area.”

“We weren’t sure what to expect

from LGF when we started working with them but the experience has been really positive. We’ve been able to use their experience of securing funding to help us.”

So it has certainly been interesting so far for Adam Winter, the LGF’s Partnership & Collaboration Co-ordinator who has been conducting the interviews. Adam told outnorthwest, “I’ve been really surprised at just how diverse the groups are across the region. Loads of people are working really hard to improve the lives of LGB&T people in their communities and we’re trying to get these people the profile they deserve. The LGF is well placed to communicate the needs of these groups out to a wider audience” So how can your group get involved? Contact Adam on adam.winter@lgf.org.uk or on 07825 254898. He’ll be out and about over the next few months and wants to capture as many groups’ stories as he can. He’ll be producing a report that the LGF wants to promote and get in to as many places as possible, particularly funders.

WE’RE HERE IF YOU NEED US! • Want to feel that you are doing something worthwhile?

• Develop new skills that will give you confidence?

• Have fun and meet new people?

• Bored?

• Time on your hands?

The Lesbian & Gay Foundation is the first port of call for many lesbian, gay bisexual and trans people, their families and friends. We know how important it is to make sure that we do all we can to meet the many diverse needs of our communities. To meet these needs the LGF is increasing the hours for some of our more direct services (including our valuable Helpline service) 7 days a week - from 10am-10pm.

WE NEED YOU TO HELP US! Time required:

A minimum of 4 hours during the day (although evening opportunities are available).

Criteria:

Self motivated, enthusiastic, confident. Able to think on your feet. Good at problem solving.

Able to communicate effectively with a wide variety of people. Have a good understanding of the diverse Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender communities. Good basic IT skills.

For further details and an application pack please see our website www.lgf.org.uk or contact Nigel Maddock on 0161 235 8035, e-mail: nigel.maddock@lgf.org.uk

Registered Charity No.1070904

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES BASED IN CENTRAL MANCHESTER

10 Ending Homophobia,

Empowering People

www.lgf.org.uk

2000-2010 CELEBRATING TEN YEARS

ON THE VERGE OF A UK GENERAL ELECTION, OUTNORTHWEST HAS SPOKEN TO THE MAIN PARTIES ABOUT THEIR POLICIES AND RELEVANCE TO LGB VOTERS.

X

THE X In July 2009, Matthew Sephton took on the role of Chairman of LGBTory, the Conservative LGBT group.

He is currently standing as Prospective Conservative MP for Salford & Eccles.

MATT SEPHTON CONSERVATIVE

“Section 28 was a mistake and David Cameron has apologised for its introduction in the 1980’s. The conservatives under Cameron has become a completely different party...”

LGBTory has only been existence for a relatively short while. How do you feel things have progressed over the last few years?

LGBTory have been at the forefront of lobbying in the campaign to achieve equal rights for all people, regardless of sexuality or gender identity at Europewide level. We are in regular contact with Shadow Ministers, most notably Theresa May in her role as Shadow Equalities Minister, Nick Herbert, openlygay Shadow Environment Secretary and Greg Barker, openly-gay Shadow Minister for Climate Change.

When it was announced that you (as an openly gay candidate) were standing as Conservative candidate for Salford and Eccles there was opposition based on your sexual orientation.

Do you think this has helped or hindered your campaign?

An extremely homophobic Christian fundamentalist has indicated that he intends to stand in Salford and Eccles as an Independent in this year’s General Election. He has written some of the most hate-fuelled and distasteful (not to mention inaccurate) words on the subject of homosexuality and in particular about me, as an openly-gay candidate for a mainstream Party.

I believe that the people of Salford and Eccles are not interested in a candidate’s sexuality but whether they think a person would be a suitable representative for them in Parliament.

What would you say to voters who simply do not trust David Cameron’s record on gay issues despite his apology on Section 28?

Section 28 was a mistake and David Cameron has already apologised for its introduction in the 1980s. The Conservatives, under the leadership of Cameron, however, has become a completely different Party in many ways. When you look at the fact that we have three openly gay shadow ministers and more than two dozen (by my count) 20

gay and lesbian candidates already selected who will be standing for Parliament next year, LGBT people can be confident that our issues and concerns will be well taken care of by people who are also LGBT and understand our concerns only too well at first hand.

Do you believe that Britain can put pressure on other countries to fully decriminalise homosexuality?

I believe that we in Britain have a duty to promote LGBT rights across the world and in all countries.

I personally believe that the UK Government should be putting particular pressure on the Commonwealth countries. It is very worrying that in 2010, homosexuality continues to be a criminal offence in 40 out of the 53 Commonwealth countries.

Do you think gay men should be allowed to donate blood?

There is no doubt in my mind that the blanket ban on blood donation by gay men is wrong.

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

If your party was successful at the next election, what would you hope would happen to continue to make sure that Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Trans voices are heard?

The LGBT agenda has moved forward in recent years more than it ever has at any point in history.

However, one of the biggest worries that continue to exist in areas of society is that of prejudice and homophobia. Recent horrific attacks show that there is still work to be done. This is where the education system comes in. It is very important that we educate our young people, through schools and from an early age, that equality of opportunity and individual freedom to live our lives without fear, is paramount and is not restricted to certain sections of society but to ALL people, regardless of gender, colour, race, sexuality or gender identity.

Who is your Homo Hero?

Will Young. Although he never pretended to be anything other than gay, he admitted that it was part of him and by no means the most important or only feature of his life.

FACTOR X

In 2007 Stephen Twigg was selected by local Labour Party members as their Parliamentary Candidate in West Derby, Liverpool. He was previously a Member of Parliament for Enfield Southgate from 1997 to 2005 coming to national prominence by defeating then-Defence Secretary Michael Portillo.

STEPHEN TWIGG LABOUR

How did it feel in 1997 to be one of the first people to be openly gay at the time of your election to the House of Commons?

It felt very positive and there was a genuine optimism that the result would herald real, concrete action to tackle prejudice and discrimination.

Five years on from the last election and 13 years after your first success, do the same issues matter to you?

Yes, the same issues matter to me today as motivated me in 1997 or indeed in 1982 when I joined the Labour Party aged 15 - injustice and inequality make me as angry today as they did then.

Many LGB&T rights have been achieved over the last 13 years. Do you think that most of these would have happened under any government?

No, these achievements have not happened by chance and most would not have happened had the Tories stayed in office in 1997. Most Conservative MPs have opposed most of the reforms which have been passed since 1997.

If Labour does win the next election what further actions could you see being taken during the next term to support LGB&T communities?

The legislative changes since 1997 have been remarkable. The next era is more about ensuring this legislation is fully implemented and tackling day-to-day bigotry - be that bullying in schools & workplaces or hate crimes.

What would you say to criticism that Labour have not been strong enough in challenging those people with strong religious beliefs who do not want to see further legislation in favour of LGB&T rights?

An important part of politics is to change hearts and minds which can be achieved via a mix of legislation and persuasion. I think the Government has generally got the balance right in this area.

“The next era is more about ensuring legislation is fully implemented and tackling day-to-day bigotry.”

There is not a single viewpoint in religious communities and many people of faith have supported the legislative changes of the past 13 years.

Do you think the current Labour government could do more to ensure the safety of LGB&T asylum seekers?

Yes, there are countries to which LGB&T asylum seekers have been returned where I think this was wrong. It undermines the more positive approach from the Foreign Office if the Home Office is sending people back to countries like Iran or Uganda where the threat to their lives is very serious.

Do you think gay men should be allowed to donate blood?

Yes. Do you think that the issue of homophobic hate crime should be given a higher profile given the incidents regarding Michael Causer and James Parkes?

The crimes against Michael Causer and James

Parkes horrified people across Liverpool, and beyond. We do need to raise awareness about hate crimes. Merseyside Police have done some very important work in this field. Liverpool Pride will be an important opportunity for the Liverpool LGB&T communities and I am confident Pride will have wide support from across the city.

If Labour wins the next election, what will you be doing to help put an end to homophobic bullying and abuse in schools?

Tackling bullying needs to be a priority in all our schools. Government has an important leadership role but the key is what happens at the local level. School governors, teaching & nonteaching staff, school councils and local authorities can all make a practical difference. The teacher trades unions have done some excellent work in this whole area. The key is to turn very good paper policies into real cultural changes in all our schools.

Who is your Homo Hero?

Chris Smith. I was 17 when Chris became the first ever voluntarily “out” MP. It gave me a lot of confidence to be open about my own sexuality. www.lgf.org.uk

21

ELECTION 2010

THE X FACTOR X

Lynne Featherstone, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Youth and Equality issues answers your questions, and tells outnorthwest why the LGB&T community should vote Liberal Democrat.

LYNNE

FEATHERSTONE LIBERAL DEMOCRATS

Why should the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGB&T) community vote Liberal Democrat?

The clues in the name! The first line of our party’s constitution says that, ‘people shouldn’t be slaves to conformity’. And this is at the heart of everything we do. We consistently and persistantly argue for equal treatment for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. This ranges from fighting to end the ban on gay men donating blood, to ending the legal definition of transgender as something medical to something approaching the real world, where lots of people chose to define their gender differently.

How do you feel about Labour taking credit for a lot of Liberal Democrat Policy around LGB&T issues?

Imitation is the highest form of flattery! But Labour still hasn’t gone far enough. It is an absolute scandal that Labour chose not to explicitly outlaw gay bullying in schools. As a result thousands of younger gay people do not have full protection from bullying they need.

Labour enjoy a pretty good record on LGB&T rights. How would the Liberal Democrats go further to support LGB&T people and continue to make sure LGBT voices are heard?

Gay marriage, normalisation of gay relations in personal social development classes, end gay donation blood ban in favour a system based on personal risk, better sexual health education, and outlaw gay bullying, the list goes on. I really don’t think anyone can rest on their laurels when it comes to fighting for equal treatment for the LGBT community.

Do you think gay men should be allowed to donate blood?

Yes. I moved an amendment to this effect as part of the recent Equalities Bill, but it was not supported

by Labour or the Conservatives. Assessing whether 22

“I really don’t think anyone can rest on their laurels when it comes to fighting for equal treatment for the LGBT community.” someone cannot donate blood should be based on personal risk not a blank assumption.

undoubtedly many more living in fear unable to escape.

With Lithuania and Uganda both forging ahead with homophobic legislation, what would a Liberal Democrat government do to defend the rights of gay people in countries where they face active persecution?

In any form of negotiation with these countries, (and others!) at every level from diplomat to minister, this needs to be flagged as serious issue that we will not let drop.

There seems to be a lot of confusion and division about how religion and sexual orientation sit together on the equalities agenda. Are there any religious excuses for discrimination against LGB&T people?

We must respect people’s personal belief and I would be the first to argue for religious freedom.

The point of conflict is where one person wants to impose their personal belief on an other. Time and time again Liberal Democrats have fought to protect the rights of gay people in the public sphere from the workplace to the provision of good and services.

What would a Liberal Democrat government do to ensure safety for refugees and asylum seekers fleeing persecution from violently homophobic and transphobic countries?

Persecution based solely on a person’s sexuality is clearly grounds for a person to seek asylum.

Liberal Democrats have fought hard when the Government has failed to uphold this human right.

But we need to go further, and use our significant influence abroad to end this persecution because for every person that manages to flee - there

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

Who is your homo hero?

Either Quentin Crisp, the Naked Civil Servant, for bringing home the cruelty and injustice of persecution because of sexuality and appearance; or Ian McKellan - because, for an actor of his standing, he went out there and stood fully proud to champion the cause.

X

Leader of the Green Party - Caroline Lucas MEP - tells outnorthwest why she thinks her party has the best policies for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans voters ahead of the General Election.

CAROLINE LUCAS GREEN PARTY

Traditionally, UK politics is viewed as a three horse race (Labour, Conservative, Liberal Democrat) why should the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans community vote Green?

Because Greens have the best policies for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex people. We are genuinely committed in policy and practice to fairness for everyone. We have a strong and informed LGBTI group which works within and outside the party to promote LGBTI rights as human rights. This group has developed key policies around the ban on blood donations, on “murder music” singers, and on opening up civil marriages and civil partnerships, without discrimination, to both same-sex and opposite sex couples.

The Greens have recently published an LGB&T election manifesto. Are you the first political party to publish such a manifesto, and what were the thoughts behind it ?

We are the only party that can demonstrate genuine commitment to environmental justice and to social justice. The other parties have shown that their promises are pretty conditional. It took Labour seven years to get around to repealing Section 28, while David Cameron actually voted for it. That law caused suffering to countless young people when they were deprived of the right to education about their choices, likely leading to depression for many young people and perhaps even suicidal thoughts. No other politician will prioritise LGBTI gay rights in the way that I will.

Labour enjoy a pretty good record on LGB&T rights. How would the Greens go further to support LGBT people and continue to make sure LGB&T voices are heard?

Labour retreated from introducing full LGBTI rights in the Equality Bill by allowing religious organisations to continue to discriminate. Why should they be exempt from the concept of equality?

“No other politician will prioritise gay rights in the way that I will.”

Homophobic hate crime increased in 2009, and there was a number of high profile physical and verbal homophobic attacks over the course of the year. What would the Greens do to address this?

It’s worrying, more than worrying, really, because when you feel you’re getting somewhere, making the police take notice, encouraging people to report homophobic crime, you have to also recognise that this still continues, as these tragic cases attest. And re-double efforts to combat these cowardly criminals who are motivated by hate and fear. We campaigned for specific homophobic hate crime legislation. LGBT people often deal with some of the worst discrimination and violence and that’s why the Greens will push for their absolute protection in law.

What are your party policies around homophobia in schools? Would you legislate for compulsory teacher training on dealing with homophobic bullying and LGBT issues to help put an end to homophobic bullying and abuse in schools?

ne who took part.

Our thanks to everyove had their say, and So, the politicians ha ty will be yours. soon the responsibiliur vote. It’s no cliche Make sure you use yo make a difference. your vote really CAN t, register to vote at Make your vote coun .uk www.aboutmyvote.co ws in this feature at read the full intervie www.lgf.org.uk

All incitements of hatred should be treated with the same zero tolerance, and where could be more important than teaching by example, than in our schools? Homophobic and transphobic crimes and bullying should be dealt with on a par with racist crimes. The Green Party’s position is to remove special treatment allowing faith schools to promote homophobia on the grounds of religion. And yes, teachers should be able to deal effectively with any bullying, and it makes sense to help them feel confident in doing that through training.

The Greens support a lifting of the ban on gay and bisexual men donating blood, how do you propose to take this support forward?

We launched our LGBTIQ manifesto in Brighton in February and one of the core issues we’re campaigning for is to end the blanket, lifetime ban on gay and bisexual blood donors.

Who is your homo hero?

Actually, it’s kd Lang.

OVER TO YOU! REMEMBER... www.lgf.org.uk

23

!

T S E W H T R NO

W

Image by bearpix.co.uk

D L I W D L I W E H T O T E M ELCO BEAR BASH

DON’T MISS!

The LGF Bear Bash Outreach Team on Canal Street on Saturday 1st May, 4-6pm

!

10 0 2 SH BA AR BE H IS IT BR AT RE G E TH TO YOUR GUIDE Thursday 29th April 7pm - 1am: Early Bird Welcome Party at the Rembrandt on Canal Street. Pick up your GBBB13 Bearnanza weekend registration packs here.

FRIday 30th April 3pm - midnight: Main Registration and info point at the International Hotel on Whitworth Street. Also come and meet the LGF Bear Bash Outreach Team and pick up your Bear Bash Safer Sex Pack!

5pm - midnight: The Outpost is open to redeem your free drinks voucherand get the party started!

9.30pm : Showbears in Lights! Camera!

Action! Manto Bar, Canal Street. £3 tickets available at www.manbears.co.uk, or £4 on the door.

10pm - Late: Bearnanza Night in Legends.

Polish those spurs, iron your best check shirt and get your Levis on. Tickets available at www.manbears.co.uk. £10 advance purchase if bought individually. £12 on the door.

24

11.30pm : Showbears in Lights! Camera!

Action! Manto Bar, Canal Street. £3 tickets available at www.manbears.co.uk, or £4 on the door.

10pm - Late Bearnanza Club Night. Legends, Whitworth Street. Ticket included in weekend pack. £10 advance purchase if bought individually, £12 on the door.

SATURDAY 1st MAY

SUNDAY 2nd MAY

12pm - 3pm: Main Registration and info point at the International Hotel on Whitworth Street. come and meet the LGF Bear Bash Outreach Team and pick up your Bear Bash Safer Sex Pack!

1pm - 5pm: Bearnanza Log Cabin Sauna at the Basement Sauna Complex on Tariff Street (additional £10 ticket) 2pm - 5pm: Bearnanza Rodeo in The Outpost beer garden, Whitworth Street. Free food if you buy the weekend pack! Come and visit the guys at the LGF stall for your safer sex goodies!

6.30pm - 8pm: Bearnanza Pool Party at The Watering Hole, aka Manchester Aquatic Centre, Oxford road. Additional £5 ticket.

10pm - 1am: An Evening with Jonathan Mayor and Friends. Manto Bar, Canal street.

Additional £5 ticket or £6 on the door.

2.30pm - 5.30pm: Bearnanza! Bears At The Birdcage. Including the final of Mr BearBash, quiz show , and Tina C. Remember to buy your LGF raffle tickets! Hosted by Jonathan Mayor.

Ticket included in weekend pack. £8 advance purchase if bought individually, or £10 on the door (up to maximum capacity) 10pm - late: Bearnanza Club Night. Legends, featuring the Bearbash foam party Ticket included in weekend pack. £10 advance purchase if bought individually, or £12 on the door.

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

MONDAY 3rd MAY 12pm - 1pm: Croissants and Coffee at the Hotel International 4pm: Last Chance Saloon. Pizza in The Outpost.

Photo: Paul Jones, Exposure

Words: Chris Morley

Calls to improve the sexual health of gay and bisexual men living with HIV across England were made at the national gay men’s sexual health conference that has just ended in Sheffield.

George House Trust made a strong case for improving sexual health support for all men living with HIV. TOP EXPERTS

The Conference heard from staff and volunteers of George House Trust. . In five out of the six conference sessions our experts led the way. The conference heard that meeting the sexual health needs of gay and bisexual men living with HIV is critical, about positive prevention (which involves positive men in reducing onward HIV transmission), calls for widespread campaigns to stop HIV stigma among gay men, and for the greater use of positive speakers to challenge stigma and empower men living with HIV.

AND POSITIVE MEN TOO We’ve been campaigning about these issues for years. Our efforts are paying off but improving things across the whole country is slow because we can only try to persuade and encourage other organisations to do the right thing.

At last however George House Trust has finally persuaded CHAPS to include supporting men living with HIV in the national strategy for HIV prevention for gay and bi men.

26

www.lgf.org.uk

POSITIVE MEN’S SEXUAL HEALTH RIGHTS NEWLY DIAGNOSED?

The next Newly Diagnosed course for gay and bisexual men begins on Wednesday 5 May. It runs for five Wednesday evenings from 5.30–8pm. You need to have been diagnosed with HIV no longer than 12 months earlier. This newly diagnosed course gets top ratings from the men who have done it before. We talk about a different topic each week including understanding HIV language, sex and risk, and employment issues. You need to be able to attend all of the sessions. For more information or to book a place email or ring Colin – colin@ght.org.uk 0161 2744 4499.

STATUS CHECK

We’ve recently worked with LGF, who are part of CHAPS, to produce our Check Your Status campaign encouraging undiagnosed gay and bisexual men to test regularly for HIV. Testing and diagnosis helps improve the sexual health of men who do turn out to have HIV and it also cuts the number of gay men diagnosed with HIV too late for the men to get the best out of their HIV treatment.

POSITIVE PREVENTION PIONEERS

In the next couple of months we will hold an expert national symposium in Manchester on Positive Prevention with gay and bisexual men with HIV. This will be the first step in a national CHAPS programme for gay men’s positive prevention. Positive prevention was neglected because the national strategy was all aimed at undiagnosed men.

This left out the many positive men who are passionate about reducing HIV

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

transmission. We want to involve men with HIV in developing the resources, knowledge and skills to maximize our sexual health and cut HIV transmission.

Work in some countries is well ahead of the UK – for instance Canada already has a national Poz Prevention strategy and booklet for HIV+ gay men.

FACE TO FACE AND BEHIND THE SCENES

Most of George House Trust’s efforts directly support people living with HIV. What is not so well known is our important behind the scenes work. Our backstage work aims to cut the number of people becoming HIV positive and working for better services to meet the changing needs of people living with HIV across the country. It’s not so glamorous and it often takes time to show results, but work like this is essential to prevent even more gay and bisexual men from needing services in the first place, and it improves the lives of men who do have HIV. www.ght.org.uk

MENTAL HEALTH Sometimes it helps to know that there are people out there who are going through the same things as us. Joining a group to share experiences is a great way to make connections and look after our mental health. Text: Chris Murchison

Strength in numbers Over the coming months the Face to Face counselling team at the LGF are planning to run a series of groups (details below). All of these groups are in the early planning stage so please keep checking our website for up-to-date details.

Women only group

(Mondays) This group will be open to all women regardless of their sexual orientation from the age of 18 upwards (no upper age limit).

This will be a Gestalt therapy group and will provide a safe and welcoming space for women to explore ways of being and relating to both self and others. Participants will be encouraged to give and receive feedback and explore their own personal growth.

‘Gestalt therapy is a powerful and immediate way of deepening our experience of being alive, being more authentic, and engaging fully in life.’

Men only group (Day to be decided)

A men only therapy group that is likely to be a closed group of fixed duration; this means that once the group starts no new members join. It is likely the group would run for year before ending. (More details soon please keep checking our website).

Where’s Your Head At and Know Your Mental Health are available now. You can also see them online at www.lgf.org.uk 28

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

“Having good mental health is not just about not having an illness that can be diagnosed by a doctor or health practitioner. There are lots of things we can do ourselves to ensure that we are making positive steps towards ensuring our own mental wellbeing.”

Gay dating and relationship group for men (Day to be decided).

This will be an eight week course looking at the modern dating world for gay men. It will be an active course that involves participation in a range of both group and independent activities.

Plus, there will be tasks set outside the course to cement the learning and maximise success!

Film Group (Day to be decided)

This will be a mixed gender group that will use the medium of TV and film to explore our individual and collective sense of gay identity. It will also explore our gay history from Wolfenden (the initial report that would lead to the decriminalisation of homosexuality) through to the present day. The group will run for 10 or 12 weeks. A film will be film watched one week and then discussed the following week. It is hoped group members will gain a clearer sense of their gay identity and gay history.

Times and costs All groups will run from 6.30pm to 8.00pm (except the film group that will last the duration of the film one week and then meet 6.30 to 8.00 the next). Cost for all groups is likely to be £5 per session for people on benefits or low incomes and £10 per session for higher incomes.

Applying for a group To apply you will need to complete a Group Application form. All group members will need to undertake a short interview with the group facilitators. Days for most groups are yet to be decided but keep up-to-date by checking out the LGF website.

Want to be kept informed about the groups?

Email counselling@lgf.org.uk subject your email GROUPS and tell us which group or groups you are interested in. Once details are finalised we will contact you.

WALK ON!

Get your walking shoes on and get involved with Gay City Strollers.

There’s nothing like a good, brisk walk to help you feel rejuvenated in both body and mind. It’s for that reason that the hugely popular Gay City Strollers is back!

Gay City Strollers is a lesbian, gay and bisexual walking group run in partnership with Get Walking, Keep Walking and The Ramblers. The short walks will take place around Manchester City Centre and will run on Saturday mornings. The walks will be led by professionals from Get Walking, Keep Walking and The Ramblers and will start off from the Lesbian and Gay Foundation on Princess Street with the exception of the last walk which will be at Clayton Vale.

Gay City Strollers is free and you can expect a welcome to walking session with tips and advice; a series of easy led walks and other activities; support from our local walking ambassadors; 4-week plan to walk your way to better health; information and advice to help you keep walking; AND a free step counter! So if you fancy doing something different and making the most your Saturday mornings, come along to Gay City Strollers, it’s a great way to keep fit, meet new people, and build your confidence away from the ‘scene’.

During the walking sessions we are also running a photography project so just another reason to come along and not only get more healthy, meet new people and discover your inner photographer!

Dates • Saturday 1st May 10.30am • Saturday 8th May 10.30am • Saturday 15th May 10.30am • Saturday 22nd May (Clayton Vale 5 mile walk) start time to be confirmed For more info, or to book a place, email: samantha@lgf.org.uk or call Samantha on 0161 235 8035, alternatively, email: jen.green@ramblers.org.uk or call Jen on 0161 232 3106.

www.lgf.org.uk

29

LGBT CARERS

Who cares for you?

“It is easy to forget sometimes that it is important to look after ourselves and our own health – particularly when we are looking after someone else.”

Continuing with our regular focus on LGBT carers, and the Caring with Confidence programme. Do you look after someone who’s ill, disabled or elderly? Even if it’s only a few hours a week? Then you’re a carer, and there is help available to you.

If you look after some one because they are ill, disabled or elderly, regardless of whether you do it every day, once a week, or once every few months, and regardless of whether the person is your partner, mum, brother, daughter or friend – you are providing unpaid care and are therefore classed as a carer.

Text: Annie Emery

It is easy to forget sometimes that it is important to look after ourselves and our own health – particularly when we are looking after someone else.

No matter what level of care you provide caring can be hard work, both physically and emotionally, and it can sometimes feel lonely and as if all your energy is going into looking after someone else with very little left over for you. If you are caring for someone, who is caring for you?

The Caring with Confidence sessions running at the Lesbian and Gay Foundation in Manchester and SHIVER in Blackpool offer a huge amount of support and information to LGBT carers. With seven sessions to choose from covering aspects of caring such as dealing with medications and emergencies at home, how to communicate 30

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more effectively, information about benefits and support groups, tips on how to cope with stress and anger, and ideas about how to eat more healthily – there’s something for everyone – no matter what your caring responsibility.

Plus it’s a great opportunity to get together with like minded people and talk about stuff that’s bothering you, or stuff that’s going really well. There’s even tea and biscuits thrown in!

(Well, not literally).

Caring with Confidence sessions can offer support to unsung heroes looking after a loved one.

But don’t just take our word for it! Here are some of the things carers who have attending the Caring with Confidence Programme have said:

“The session was very interesting and will be useful to lots of carers out there, not only for those in a caring capacity but so good for everybody just to talk and share experience and learn how to focus more positively in all aspects. Well designed, well delivered, interesting, informative, thought provoking”

Photo: Paul Farncis

Do you look after someone?

“Time to accept the value of the caring you do” “Good to hear others perspectives and learn techniques to change my life”

FREE LOCAL SESSIONS.

“Very open and respectful space to share experiences and tips with other carers. The pace was excellent. A great start to getting the support I need.”

Are you an LGBT carer or care for someone who is LGBT?

“Valuable information and an opportunity to reflect positively on caring”

Caring With Confidence will:

“Good for life in general, not only caring” “Really great opportunity to meet other carers and talk about stuff”

Help you build your strengths as a carer.

“I learnt things I didn’t know” “This type of course is essential for the needs of carers and those being cared for”

Give you the opportunity to share experiences and learn from others in similar situations.

Remember – Caring with Confidence sessions are absolutely free, and we can help with respite care and travel costs. If you would like an informal chat about the sessions call Annie Emery on 0161 235 8024. Or email annie@lgf.org. uk

Give you useful information, ideas and tips about looking after someone

BOOK YOUR PLACE TODAY! Registered Charity No.1070904

Introductory session Finding Your Way runs at The Lesbian & Gay Foundation on Thursday 13th May 6pm – 9pm. To book your place contact Annie on 0161 235 8024 or drop an email to annie@lgf.org.uk. For details of sessions running at SHIVER contact Helen on 01253 311431 or email hward@druglinelancs.co.uk

Help you decide what you might like to change about your caring role.

Provide travel and alternative care costs for those who need it.

10 Ending Homophobia,

Empowering People

www.lgf.org.uk

2000-2010 CELEBRATING TEN YEARS

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

DRUGS

miaow miaow • m-cat • MCAT • bubbles • white magic • plant feeder

MEPHEDRONE A new(ish) drug has been grabbing all the headlines recently and as far as the media is concerned seems to be taking off among recreational drug users in a big way.

Text: Sara Ashworth

Mephedrone (usually known as MMCAT, Meow or bubble) has been associated with around six deaths recently in the UK and one of the biggest factors for it’s popularity is the it is completely legal.

Although the drug has been around since 2007 it’s recent high profile and the crack down on legal drugs has now made it come under the radar of the government, police and media.

exact effects vary from person to person and depend upon:

Not much is really known about MMCAT, as it is not illegal not much research has been done into it’s effects and so nobody really knows anything about the long term effects, consequences and dangers.

• Your mood when you take it

A glance at any news item or internet drug forum can tell you that it gives a state of euphoria, alertness, talkativeness and a feeling of empathy. It has a similar effect to MDMA and Speed but with any drug the 32

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• How much you take • How often you take it • How you take it (snorting or swallowing) • Purity • What other drugs you take with it

As the drug is not covered by The misuse of Drugs Act it is currently classed as a legal high, however there is no doubt that it will become illegal during 2010. The strength of the drug depends very much on where you buy it and what type of MMCAT you buy but it is more likely to be cut with other substances if you get it from a dealer.

The strength of the drug depends very much on where you buy it and what type of MMCAT you buy but it is more likely to be cut with other substances if you get it from a dealer.

MMCAT is not really known as a sex drug, although some users report an increased libido. Men report not being able to get hard on MMCAT but if you manage too you can be grinding away for hours so it is advisable to pick up some strong condoms and water based lube to try and avoid some nasty incidents, this will also lower your chance of contracting an STI. The advice also seems to be that if you are on any kind of medication to avoid MMCAT as it is not know how it reacts with other substances and because it is toxic you will not know until it is too late if you are one of the unlucky ones.

The come down on MMCAT also varies widely; some say it is less severe and mellower with others reporting extreme depression, anxiety and paranoia. However as the saying goes ‘what goes up must come down’ and so a comedown is always going to be the cost of a good high.

NEED HELP?

For information on MMCAT, visit the Talk To Frank website: www.talktofrank.com

WEAR IT FILL IT BIN IT (OR GET HIM TO!)

Reg. Charity No.1070904

Like other stimulants Mephedrone makes your thirsty and keeps you up all night, it is hard to get drunk when you have taken it so drink alcohol is just a waste of money. If you take it with other stimulants such as MDMA the risks increase as it narrows the arteries, this can cause numbness of the arms and legs and in severe cases cause a heart attack and fits.

10 Ending Homophobia,

Empowering People

www.lgf.org.uk

THE LGF’S FREE GAY MEN’S SAFER SEX PACKS ARE AVAILABLE IN VENUES ACROSS GREATER MANCHESTER.

2000-2010 CELEBRATING TEN YEARS

SEXTALK

TALK DIRTY TO US! IF YOU’VE GOT ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THE SEX YOU’RE HAVING, OR YOUR SEXUAL HEALTH, DROP PETER AN E-MAIL: peter.boyle@lgf.org.uk

e h t k As

BEAR SEXPERT “After working in Gay

Men’s sexual health for over 17 years, the one thing I’ve not seen much of is Bears talking about the stuff that is important to us... so lets talk about it!

With Bear Bash just around the corner I was thinking it would be a good time to talk about the joys of the internet, online affairs, Bear Event romance and long distance relationships.

God knows’ I’ve had my share....

For those of us that live in Manchester, I’m sure you have experienced the on slot of Gaydar, Bearwww and Euorwoof messages from guys coming to town for Bear Bash - all of them looking for a good time, some of them looking for love, and yet others who are just looking for a free place to stay and more than happy to pay with nature’s credit card.

Now the amazing thing about the Internet is it’s very easy to be whoever you want to be online. You can hide behind your online personality, and many of us do. So when we meet Mr. Bear Wonderful online, are we really falling in love with them, or are we falling in love with the “idea” of them? Who we are day-to-day is usually very different from who we are online or on that one weekend a month when we are with our new Mr. Bear Wonderful.

Remember, you are probably not the only guy, that Mr. Bear Wonderful has contacted letting them know he will be in town for Bear Bash. So is it a good idea to get your hopes up, open up your home to a perfect stranger, and possibly saddle yourself with the responsibility of a house guest that once you’ve met face to face, doesn’t catch your fancy, or worse yet, that you can’t stand!? And how are you going to react if Mr. Bear Wonderful finds his special “connection” with another bear who isn’t you over the course of the weekend?

So here’s my Bear Sexpert advice! First of all, don’t get your hopes up over an event weekend. You may make plans to meet up, and it may fall through! Single boys are busy at a bear event. If you have been chatting and think you have found your Mr. Bear Wonderful online, make sure if they are coming to Manchester for the weekend that they have a place to stay

34

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

ONLINE SEX ADVICE

LGF CLINICS

For even more practical advice about how to have a happy, healthy sex life, visit The Lesbian & Gay Foundation website today. Bookmark www.lgf.org.uk now!

To find out the dates and times of upcoming LGF sexual health clinics, visit www.lgf.org.uk

PETER BOYLE SEX IN THE CITY

Sects and the city There has been a lot of talk about sex education in schools recently, which can only be a good thing. One of the main issues often faced with sexual health interventions is that they come to late (so to speak!).

Ask the Bear Sexpert anything! Send your thoughts, comments and questions to sexualhealth@lgf.org.uk (not at your house). If they get here, and you find that after a day or two there is a connection, then he can always check out of his hotel and come stay with you....

By the time people learn about the problems of having unprotected sex, it is often too late due to the fact that they are already having it. Learning on the job, if you will.

And this works in both directions. Say you meet Mr. Bear Wonderful online and you decide, “Wow, he’s the bear of my dreams, I’m going to jump on a three hour flight to go find my true love...” You buy a restricted flight, that will cost you a small fortune to change, you don’t have a hotel or even the money for a hotel when you get there, and you are gambling on the fact that it’s going to be a long holiday of love and romance. Is it me, or don’t you think this puts you in a very vulnerable position?

Most other life skills can be learned by the tried and tested formula of trial and error , but when it comes to sex, the errors can some times be irreversible. I am not just talking abou t STIs or even HIV, as often the problems can have long term effects on self esteem, self imag e and ultimately self worth. This can then cause a downwards spiral of events, that can lead to self harm, self hatred and problems even worse than that. It always amazes me how man y together gay men and lesbians have had to go through a period of serious self reflection, and self doubt to get them where they are today.

If things don’t work out you are left with only a few options. Option 1: Fork out the money to change your flight and come home early; Option 2: Fork out the money to get yourself checked into a hotel and enjoy the rest of your trip; or Option 3: Stay with Mr. Bear “Not So” Wonderful... he calls all the shots, and you find yourself making decisions based on the fact that you need a roof over your head for the duration of your stay.

So if everyone was taught from an early age about the diverse way in which human relationships are formed, including gay, lesbian and trans relationships, then this perio d of ‘dabbling with the taboo, and the unkn own’ could be avoided. One of the main issues

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying that you can’t find a life long relationship online, or at Bear Event, but what I am saying is be smart about it. Use a bit of common sense when it comes to your online long distance quest for love. It’s been my experience that anything or anyone that seems too good to be true usually is! Safer sex is the easy part, protecting your heart can be a bit trickier!

Registered Charity No.1070904

This includes having sex with someone you don’t want, or worse yet, finding yourself taking risks you wouldn’t normally take in bed just to keep Mr. Bear Wonderful happy..

that is causing problems with getting sex and relationships education into schools seems to be centred around faith and relig ion. Sex and religion have never been comforta ble bed partners.

The whole issue of same sex relationsh ips, as far as religion is concerned, comes down to homosexual ‘acts’, as if there are no other dimensions to the relationship. They don’t seem to understand that gay relationsh ips face all of the same issues and dramas that straight relationships do. In fact, they probably face more due to the constant negative portrayal of them.

If the major faiths weren’t so obsessed with what gay people ‘do’, then they may be able to look at same sex couples with a bit more obje ctivity.

Hopefully the fact that children are going to be taught more about sex and relat ionships will mean that as they grow they will be more confident peer educators to those who may miss out because their school wouldn’t allow it.

Hopefully this will have a positive impa ct sexual health and wellbeing in the future.

Time will tell, it always does.

LOOKING FOR ADVICE? 10 Ending Homophobia,

Empowering People

www.lgf.org.uk

2000-2010 CELEBRATING TEN YEARS

Whether you’re looking for relationship advice, you’re concerned about your sexual health, you want to know the opening times for Cruz 101, or you want to get involved with your community, give the LGF Helpline a call on 0845 3 30 30 30. Staffed from 7pm - 10pm every night! www.lgf.org.uk

35

SPORT

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW!

GARETH THOMAS

There’s even more from Gareth, and other successful LGB sports people, in the LGF’s new inspirational guide for young LGB people, AIM HIGH. It’s available now!

Check www.lgf.org.uk/aimhigh for more info!

36

Thomas’ Rugby Union career has been one of success and more success. His club career includes a Welsh Premier Division title in 2003, and a Heineken Cup victory in 2005.

Internationally, he has enjoyed huge success with Wales and has also been capped with the British Lions. Since coming out, Gareth has been in great demand and has spoken honestly and with integrity about his decision to come out and how he would like to become a role model for anyone who is struggling with their sexuality. outnorthwest caught up with Gareth recently and asked how he’s been coping with all this attention...

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

Interview: Simon Pearson. Photos: actionimages.com & Jam Agency

Professional rugby player Gareth Thomas announced publicly that he was gay in December 2009. Thomas’ public confirmation of his sexuality makes him the first openly gay professional still playing the game to come out. Thomas’ decision is all the more amazing given the ‘macho’ world that rugby is perceived to be.

SPORT

Did you expect the huge level of interest you’ve received since coming out last year?

I didn’t, but I’m glad there is still an interest in the story. My coming out was a small part of the story. It was bigger than me. This sort of story is something that affects everyday lives. The more people that come out, the more of a subject it becomes - and the more of a forum it becomes, and then more people will hopefully start to understand it in the wider community. So I’m glad about it all really - it’s something that if it’s a major talking point then hopefully it can help people.

Has it been challenging dealing with all the media attention around your sexuality rather than your rugby?

In a way, yes. I want to be known as a rugby player first and foremost, rather than a gay rugby player.

But I understand that when someone breaks the stereotype then that’s the way it’s going to be. To be honest, I am used to dealing with the press, so I know what to expect. Yes, I know a lot of the media will use the story to sell papers, but I’m using it too, to get across a message.

Whats been the biggest surprise over the last few months?

The acceptance of it (coming out). Some people who I thought wouldn’t have accepted it have.

You hear there will be negative comments when people come out, but to be honest I haven’t heard or experienced it. That’s from my team mates, to my coaches, my family and my friends and even people in the street who will only know me from playing rugby. It’s been nothing but words of support and hand shakes to say congratulations from all of them. As far as I am concerned, the world is a different place than I thought it was.

Because of the ‘matter of fact’ way you have dealt with your sexuality, you’re seen as very much a hero to lots of gay men. Is this something that sits easily with you?

You know something, yeah. Rugby for years has given me a platform, and now that I have come out, I want to become a role model. I want to help people to deal with something that I struggled to deal with for so long. I feel having come out now, it’s up to me to be a positive role model for kids and adults who may be in the same situation as I was. I will certainly do my damndest to do that and help people who are struggling out there to deal with their sexuality.

What would your advice be to an LGB person who wants to come out, but is perhaps too scared to?

The big thing with this is that it’s pointless coming out unless you are going to be happy. If you are happy hiding your sexuality and happy living within the boundaries then that’s for you to decide.

The life and freedom it’s given me is something I have only ever dreamed of. Since I have come out, it’s made me such a better and happier person that’s because I have had people around me like my family and friends. I understand though, that everybody’s circumstances are different. The reality is it’s not the same for everyone - we don’t live in a dream world, we live in reality. All I can hope is

“I want to help people to deal with something that I struggled to deal with for so long. It’s up to me to be a positive role model...” my experiences of coming out will give a positive message - that if Gareth, who plays rugby in this macho world and is very much a man’s man can come out, then maybe I can do it too.

Recently there has been lots of attention on homophobia in football and many people say it’s much harder to talk about gay issues in football rather than rugby. Is this a fair opinion?

Until a footballer actually does come out we can’t say it’s a good thing or a bad thing. No one has come out since Justin Fashanu. Once again though, it’s about someone being happy if they decided to come out. If a footballer did decide to come out and was unhappy, what sort of message would that send out to people? And if another Justin Fashanu incident happened, what sort of message would that send across the globe? Everyone is saying, “someone has to come out, someone has to come out”, but it has to be right. If it takes two, five, or ten years for someone in football to come out and it’s accepted in that person’s environment, across the terraces and everywhere else then great.

How would you respond to a former professional footballers comments that there can’t be any gay footballers out there?

Well, you know everyone is entitled to their own

opinions. Someone would have said something similar about rugby in the seventies, eighties and nineties. People go on about stats, like one in so many people are gay and that gay people don’t watch or participate in sport. Opinions I hope I can change. I think in terms of people saying one in so many people are gay, I’d say that until someone actually comes out you can’t really say. I think that in cases like this one, rather than people saying unhelpful comments, it’s better to say nothing.

What would you say to anyone in the gay community who wants to get involved in sport but maybe has confidence issues?

My message is that I am so passionate about rugby that if I can play, I will play. Hopefully this will show that you haven’t got to be that stereotypical gay person to participate in sport. Sport does a great deal for your life, it gives you great values and ethics, and is a great way to meet new friends. Now that’s what life for me is all about - get out there and do it, just try it - yes, sport might not be for everyone but I would rather someone try it who is gay - and say “yes, I’ll give it a try”, and then if they don’t like it fine - at least you tried it.

Visit Gareth’s official website: http://officialgareththomas.com/

2 pages of sport every issue supported with enthusiasm by: www.lgf.org.uk

37

FITNESS

You may recognise Chris as the LGF’s condom boy, but you might not know that he’s a fully qualified Personal Trainer. Chris is also a Physical Therapy Consultant, with his own UK based consultancy company ‘Inspire’, delivering gym induction workshops for the NHS, advising and encouraging well-being for nurses and their patients.

Chris is based in Manchester, predominately working as a Personal Trainer at GL-14 Health Club, but his newest role is outnorthwest’s very own Fitness Expert!

drink water “Hello everyone. I want to

give you all as much advice as possible in these columns, advice that will hopefully motivate, inform and educate you. With this being my first column there’s no better place to start than the basics. For those of who are hoping to make changes to your health I have put together a list of good habits that need to be picked up even before you begin to think about hitting the gym. Have a look through the list to see how many of my suggestions you already do.”

Drink at least 6-8 glasses of liquids per day and try to make at least 3-4 of these water. Water helps to eliminate toxins, keeps cells healthy and improves the appearance and texture of skin. If you need an energy boost please don’t reach for the red bull or diet coke.

Hydrating your body with water does the job much better.

eat breakfast Eating a healthy breakfast, such as a low sugar cereal with semi-skimmed or skimmed milk, provides valuable nutrients and enables our energy levels to work to the best of its ability. Breakfast also helps prevent unhealthy snacking later in the morning.

taste what you eat

Often we eat habitually, not actually tasting the food. Actually tasting our food not only makes it easier to control food quantities, and to give up inappropriate or inadvisable ones, but also helps our digestive system to reduce food storage.

go wholemeal Wholemeal bread, pasta and rice are more filling and contain more vitamins, minerals and fibre than white varieties.

less salt Limit the salt in your diet to less than 6g per day. Avoid adding salt to cooking or at the table. Limit salty snacks and check how much is in processed foods.

lean meat Most of us know meat is a good source of protein, iron and other nutrients, but, when eating meat, remove the visible fat and keep high fat meat products, such as sausages, beefburgers and salami, to a minimum.

less fat make a conscious effort to reduce the amount of fat in your diet. Choose lower fat alternatives when possible and grill foods instead of frying.

“Be sure to look out for future columns, they will contain loads more nutrition and training tips to

develop your health and fitness knowledge. If this list is all news to you, not to worry, just take on board as many tips as possible, slowly introducing them into your eating habits, just be sure to be up to scratch by the next issue!”

Contact Chris direct for bookings and rates info at chris@inspireconsultants.org.uk

38

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

greater manchester

MaNchEsTeR

Free Safer Sex Packs available at most venues

MaNchEsTeR MaNchEsTeR

88 Listing Indicator

£ Portland Street

Major Street

Hart Street

17

42 44 41

16

Bloom Street

13

9

31

10

32

7

20 30 23

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e Str un

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

4

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

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

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

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

Coyotes 14 Chorlton Street, 0161 236 4007, pleasant two floor bar, coyotesbar.co.uk 9

10 Crunch 10 Canal Street, 0161 236 0446, crunchbar.co.uk 11 Cruz 101 101 Princess St, 0161 950 0101, one of Manchester’s most popular nightclubs, cruz101.com

Eden 3 Brazil Street, 0161 237 9852, food served daily, edenbar.co.uk 12

Venues Key

Mixed

Mainly Men

43

Whitworth Street

21

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

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

Mancunia 8 Minshull St, 0161 835 1300, nightclub over three floors.

15

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

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La

46 25 14

Piccadilly Train Station

£

6 32 View 40 Canal St, 0161 236 9033

cluB Nights

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

ALERT Fetish at Legends, 4th Friday of the month club-alert.com

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

BOLLOX Pop/Indie at Legends, 3rd Friday of the month bolloxclub.com

40 The Parlour Richmond St, theparlourmanchester.com

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

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

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

Eager Beaver at Manto Bar Lounge, Friday’s

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

Thompsons Arms 23 Sackville Street, 0161 237 5919.

16

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

Overdraught Student 121 Princess Street, 0161 237 0811 18

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

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

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

27

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

29 Vanilla 39-41 Richmond Street, 0161 657 8890, vanillagirls.co.uk 30 Velvet 2 Canal St, 0161 236 9003, food served daily, velvetmanchester.com

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

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

Mainly Women

Mainly Trans

Bar

FEDERATION Mainly Men at The Ritz, every bank holiday clubfederation.com gen-e-sis Women at Eden, lesbian club, 1st Sat of the month genesisclubnight.co.uk Homoelectric at Legends, 1st Friday every other month homoelectric.com Man Bears present Hairy! Bear at Legends, 2nd Saturday of the month manbears.co.uk Morning Glory at Queer, after hours every Saturday Organic at Spirit, after hours every Sat.

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

POPTASTIC Pop/Indie at Alter Ego, 07974 248 247 poptastic.co.uk Pretty in Pink 80’s club night joe.spencer@lgf.org.uk RECREATION clubrecreation.co.uk

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

All information provided by venues. Please check before arrival

40

h kC

c

Ba

Canal Street

Registered Charity No.1070904

1 Alter Ego 105-107 Princess St, 0161 236 9266, home to Poptastic every Tuesday and Saturday night, clubalterego.co.uk

ina

Sackville Gardens

13 Eagle Opens soon 15 Bloom Street, new venue.

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in Ch

London Road

34

Whitworth Street

PUBS, CLUBS & Bars

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26

28

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4

12

£

49

tre nS

Canal Street

Chorlton Street

15

Brazil Street

18

35

Richmond Street

40

29

ff

ri Ta

48

e Str

36

8

Sackville Street

Princess Street

22

37 t ee Str

lto

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Northern Quarter Hart Street

Hi

47 Richmond Street

24

3

39

19

Parking Cash Machine

r we Bre

Bloom Street

£

Major Street

Minshull Street

2

(Free City Centre Bus)

Chorlton Street Bus/Coach Station

27 Abingdon Street

33 1

Chorlton Street

Sackville Street

Princess Street

11

Train Station Metrolink Stop Metroshuttle Stop

Portland Street

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

Serves Food

Cash Point

Outdoor Seating

Disabled Access

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

commuNity & HEalth

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

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

The City Centre Project 52 Oldham Street, 0161 228 3308 and 3309, project works with young people 16-25 yrs who’s primary disadvantage is homelessness.

The Lesbian & Gay Foundation (LGF) Princess House, 105-107 Princess St, 0161 235 8035, for all your LGB information and services, lgf.org.uk 33

EatEriEs

BRASSERIE Gay Friendly Albert Square, 0161 834 7633

CROMA Pizza and Pasta 1 Clarance St, 0161 237 9799, croma.biz

CROMA Pizza and Pasta 30 Longfield Centre, Prestwich, 0161 798 7666, croma.biz 35 DRIP COFFEE Fourways House,

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

Eighth Day Vegan 111 Oxford Road, 0161 273 1850 36 Genghis khans 16 Chorlton Street,

0161 228 1631, genghiskhans.co.uk

St. Mary’s Centre New St. Mary’s Hospital, Hathersage Road, 0161 276 6515, sexual assault referral centre, stmaryscentre.org

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

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

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

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

UPPERCUTS BARBERS The Arndale Market, 07784 156 693

HOTELS & B&B's City Inn Manchester One Piccadilly Place, Auburn Street, 0161 242 1000, cityinn.com

CLYDEMOUNT GUEST HOUSE 866 Hyde Rd, Debdale Park, 0161 231 1515, bookings@clydemount.co.uk clydemount.co.uk 46 INTERNATIONAL HOTEL Gay 34 London Rd, 54 bedrooms, 0161 236 1010

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

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

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

aGENCIES

CLINICS

Jarman Clinic Withington Hospital, 0161 217 4939 North Manchester GUM Delaunays Rd, Crumpsall, 0161 720 2681 North Manchester Hospital Same day HIV test clinic, 0161 720 2845 Rusholme Health Centre Walmer Street, 0161 225 6699

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

outreach Clinic @ the LGF and 4 other locations, Mondays, no appointment needed, 0161 235 8035, lgf.org.uk

friends of sackville gardens 0161 235 8012, Meets monthly to plan improvements, maintenance and new planting in Sackville Gardens, emma@lgf.org.uk

Rapid HIV Testing @ the LGF Thursdays 4-6pm, no appointment needed, results in 20 mins, 0161 235 8035, lgf.org.uk

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

the hathersage centre 280 Upper Brook St, 0161 276 5200 / 5212

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

GROUPS 40+ GAY MENS GROUP 0845 3 30 30 30, support and social group meets every Thursday 7.30-9pm.

ART CLASS 0845 3 30 30 30, arts based activity group meets every Friday 7-9pm.

BiPhoria 07941 811124, bisexual support 18+, biphoria.org.uk

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

37

42nd St 20 Swan Street, 0161 832 0170, advice for young LGBs, fortysecondstreet.org.uk

Lava Café Bar Castle Quay, 0161 833 2444, lavacafebar.co.uk

Addaction 31 Robert St. 0161 214 0770, Prison resettlement for people with drug problems, addaction.org

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.

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

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

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

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

Edward carpenter community of gay men fortnightly meetings for gay men support, trust and friendship - also longer breaks away, gaycommunity.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

jacksons Jackson’s Warehouse, 20 Tariff Street, 0161 228 2677, axm-arcobaleno.com

LIVEBAIT Gay Friendly 22 Lloyd Street, 0161 817 4110, santeonline.co.uk SAPPORO Teppanyaki 91-93 Liverpool Road, 0161 831 9888 38 Shang Hi Gay Friendly

61 Whitworth St, 0161 228 7868 That Café 1031 Stockport Road, 0161 432 4672, thatcafe.co.uk

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

34

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

39

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

Shops & sERVICES Bannatynes Health Club Gay Friendly 36-38 Whitworth St, 0161 236 6864 Clone Zone 36-38 Sackville Street, 0161 236 1398, clonezone.co.uk

Dr Phil Tyson 061 235 1890, Men’s Psychotherapist and relationship counselling.

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

Community Alcohol Team 0161 230 6382, manchestercat.org Community Arts North West 46-50 Oldham St, 0161 234 2975 can.uk.com George House Trust 77 Ardwick Green North, 0161 274 4499, ght.org.uk Lifeline 101-103 Oldham St, 0161 839 2054, lifeline.org.uk Lifeshare 0161 953 4069, male sex workers advice, lifeshare.co.uk

42

Manchester Drug Service The Bridge, 104 Fairfield Street, 0161 273 4040

Olive Deli 36-38 Whitworth St, 0161 236 2360

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

NICE ‘N’ NAUGHTY 39 Bloom Street, 0161 228 0020 43

ProBalance Personal Training 0161 833 4777, gay friendly personal training gym in the City Centre, pro-balance.co.uk

Manchester Smoking Cessation 0161 205 5998 Pankhurst Centre 60-62 Nelson Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock, 0161 273 5673, pankhurstcentre.org.uk

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

NorTh WeSt

NorTh weSt NorTh WeSt WEBSITEs

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 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 Listings are continually being updated.

Please email your listing to: listings@lgf.org.uk

www.lgf.org.uk

41

greater manchester 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 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 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 Let’s Do Lunch 07813 083242, lesbian diners every other month, paulad650@aol.com lesbiandiners.org.uk LIK:T 07813 981 338, run by and for young lesbian and bisexual women, 1st Monday of the month, likt_info@likt.org.uk lilac - lesbian cancer support LGBT Centre, 49-51 Sidney St, 0161 273 7128, for LB women who have experienced any form of cancer. kerry.maskell@lesbiancommunityproject.co.uk Manchester Christian Group 07743 476191 Manchester Concord Social group, every Wed from 7pm at the Rembrandt, Canal St. mary@manchesterconcord.org.uk 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 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 MMU LGBT mmu_lgbt@hotmail.co.uk 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 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 addmission. kerry.maskell@lesbiancommunityproject.co.uk Out In The City call Sue 0161 205 3851, meets Thursdays. oitc.wordpress.com out to the theatre Jon: 01457 877 161, gay men’s social group, joncassun@yahoo.co.uk OutWrite 07931 915 620, LGBT writing group, outwrite.org.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 42

owls (older wiser lesbians) LGBT Centre, 49-51 Sidney St, 0161 273 7128, for older or non-scene LB women to socialise & make friends, meets every Wed, 1-4pm, kerry.maskell@lesbiancommunityproject.co.uk Proud 2 b Parents 0161 226 0162, Moss Side Surestart Children’s Centre, 30 Selworthy Rd, for LGB&T parents and their children every 4th Saturday, matthew.roberts@manchester.nhs.uk queer skinhead brotherhood queerskinbrotherhood@googlemail.com Queer Youth Manchester 07092 031 086, info@queeryouth.net Rainbow Families c/o LCP, 0161 273 7128, rainbow_families@hotmail.com rainbow-families@hotmail.com Right2Unite Zion Centre, Hulme, 0161 226 0170, LGB group meets every Tues. salford youth service lgbt youth group at The Base, 0161 778 0702, steve.dyson@salford.gov.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 VADA Theatre Company PO Box 92, vada.theatre@googlemail.com 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

SPORTS GROUPS Absolutely DANCING Trinity High School every Weds 8pm-10pm latin and ballroom lessons for the LGB&T community. absolutelydancingmanchester@hotmail.com BELUGA DIVERS Scuba Diving club for the LGBT community, belugadiving.co.uk

MANCHESTER PRAIRIE DOGS 07960 351 882, line dance sessions, every Tues 7.30-9 beginners, 9-10.30 intermediate, manchesterprairiedogs.co.uk Manchester SHARKS Miles Platting Pool, Varley Street, water polo club manchestersharks.co.uk Manchester Stingers WFC Womens football club for all abilities, manchesterstingers.net MANCHESTER VIXENS LADIES FC 07921 838 733, LBT football clubs, emphasis on fun, manchestervixens.co.uk manchester walking women its.elly@yahoo.co.uk Marlin Levenshulme Swimming Pool, Barlow Rd, trans swimming group, swim@marlin.org.uk NETBALL 07939 477 026, women only group with weekly coaching, training every Monday, 8-10pm.

NORTHERN ACES TENNIS GROUP 07929 917 361, tennis play in a social yet competitive environment, professional coaching, northernacestennis.com

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

bUrY

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

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

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

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

OPEN ATHLETICS 07709 000 436, openathletics.org OUTDOOR LADS gay and bi-sexual lads into outdoor activities, outdoorlads.com outdoor lads climbing club outdoorlads.com Out on Sunday 07775 671691, walking group, outonsunday.co.uk Touch Rugby Call on Paul 07775 022797 paul.scanlon-wells@rfl.uk.com Village Manchester FC gay men’s football club for every level, vmfc.co.uk Village Spartans Rugby Training sessions on Wednesday evening from 7pm, villagespartans.co.uk WEEKENDERS lesbian and gay walking group based in the North of England, geocities.com/weekenders_uk

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

BoLtOn

MANCHESTER BADMINTON CLUB 07939 477026, Badminton club for the less experienced player.

Manchester Front Runners 07813 336 445, running club catering for all abilities, meets every Thurs in the city centre, co-chairs@manchesterfrontrunners.org manchesterfrontrunners.org Manchester jessies Lesbian & bisexual women’s walking group, meets twice monthly manchesterjessies@googlemail.com

groups

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

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

Ghap badminton text 07946 191 482, ghapbadminton.org.uk

READING GROUP FOR LESBIAN AND GAY LITERATURE 01204 333173, 3rd Tues of the month 6.30pm, central.library@bolton.gov.uk Loud & Proud LGBT Youth 07824 541211 or 07918 913937, Meets Wednesdays 5.30 - 8. For 13-19 yr olds, boltonlgbtyouth@bolton.gov.uk

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

GAY OUTDOOR GROUP transpennine walking group, 07855 197607 goctranspennine.org.uk

GrOUPS

pubs, clubs & bars

The Star 11 Bow St, 01204 361113

club NightS

TOUCH OF CLASS 139 High St, 07709 185235, A monthly disco for lesbian and bisexual women, touchofclasswomensdisco.co.uk Twisty tuesdays J2 & The Attic Square

aGENCIES & CLINICs

Bolton Centre for Sexual Health Minerva Road, Farnworth, 01204 390771 HIV worker Emma Massey 01204 390772 MENTAL HEALTH independent support (MhIST) 30 Chorley New Road, 01204 527200, mhist.co.uk The Parallel 9A Churchgate, 01204 462444 theparallel@bolton.nhs.uk

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

aGENCIES & CLINICs

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

LGBT Reading Group Lounge Bar, Ramsbottom, 0161 253 6625, last Monday of the month 6.30-8.00, i.jenkinson@bury.gov.uk n.franklin@bury.gov.uk 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

SErvicEs

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

ChOrlTon 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 women only 2nd Friday of the month, check Facebook for details.

Registered Charity No.1070904

GROUPS (CoNt.)

Lancashire

OlDhAm

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Dog & Duck 25 St. Domingos Street, 07999 060646 thedogandduck.com THE ABBEY INN Mixed 77 West Street.

CLINICs

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

SOLICITORS

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

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

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

SaUNaS

GROUPS

Pennine Sauna 96 Rochdale Rd, Shaw, 01706 842 000

ROcHdAlE PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Bar Vegas 37 Bailey St, 01706 630 708

CLINICS

Crisis Intervention Team 01706 517 613

Sexual Health PROMOTION UNIT 01706 517 613 THE BRIDGE SEXUAL HEALTH CLINIC Bailie Street, 0161 627 8753

GROUPS

Out in stockport Stepping Hill, 0161 483 4784 outinstockport.wordpress.com People Like Us (PLUS) LGBT Social support group, 2nd Wed of the month at The Arden Arms, 7.30pm, stockportplus.org PLUS Exercise Group (PEG) 07880 746 079, arranges monthly walks in the Stockport area PLUS Reading Group 07880 746079 The Base LGBt YOUTH GROUP Training and Development Centre, 0161 477 4096 thebase@stockport.gov.uk

SPORTS GROUPS

LanCaSHire

LanCaSHire LanCaSHire

BlACkBuRn

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Bar Ibiza 43 Darwen St, 01254 695379

OrMsKIrk

CLINICS

bsure 0845 602 0894, Chlamydia screening for under 25’s, b.sure@bwdpct.nhs.uk b-sure.org.uk Sexual Health Clinic Blackburn Royal Infirmary, Bolton Road, 01254 687 304 SHOUT 01254 300126, young sexual health team up to 25 shoutteam@yahoo.co.uk

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 and 6-8.30pm.

aGENCIES

swinton clinic 139 Partington Lane, 0161 212 5100, Mon 2-4.30pm, Tue 6-8.30pm, Fri 2-4.30pm drop in.

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

Groups

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

sTOcKpOrT PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

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

Age Concern 56 Wellington Street, 0161 480 1211 Central Youth ADVICE AND INFO 0161 480 9600, Counselling and sexual healh services for young people up to 25.

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

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

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

CLINICs

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

EaTERIES

GROUPS

Red Triangle Café St. James St, 01282 832319

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

GROUPS

trAfFoRd CLINICs

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

aGENCIES

Relate 346 Chester Road, 0161 872 0303

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

GROUPS

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

No Attitude 0161 912 2453, LGB youth group.

aGENCIES

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

WIGan

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

miners lamp pub Gay Owned Ormskirk Rd, Pemberton.

The Queens Arms New Town, gay nights every Friday.

Project Oscar 0800 7835345, LGBT info & support, project-oscar@centrallancashire.nhs.uk clangles.com

LanCAStEr

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

Blowing Wild Club Grimshaw Street, open Thurs, Fri, Sat, 07752 512232 Oblivion 12-14 Grimshaw St, 01772 252876 The Hangout Hammonds Row (opposite Bus Station), 07985 327052, Saturdays 21.302.30 (weekday student nights coming soon), preston-hangout.co.uk

CLINICS

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

AGENCIES

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

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

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

aGENCIES

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

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

DANCING DIVA For more information, dancingdiva5@hotmail.com

GROUPS

wYtHenShAwE

PrEstOn

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

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

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, Fri. justus01.community.officelive.com

Project Oscar 0800 7835345, LGBT info & support, project-oscar@centrallancashire.nhs.uk clangles.com

CLUB NIGHTS

CLINICs

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

GROUPS

BACKSTAGE BAR 135 St James St, 01282 414895

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

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

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

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

Burnley

CLINICS

Glossop LGBT group glossoplgbt.co.uk

CLINICS

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

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

pubs, clubs & bars

irlam medical centre MacDonald Rd, 0161 212 4500, Wed. 6-8.30pm drop in.

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

edgehill university LGBT society search on facebook

TamEsIde

higher broughton health centre Bevendon Square, 0161 212 4500, Wed 6-8.30, Fri 9.30-11.30 drop in.

CLUB NIGHTS

GROUPS

SaLfOrD

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

CLINICS

Stagedoor 23 Mincing Lane, 01254 674761

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

eccles gateway Church Street, 0161 212 5717, thurs 6-83.0pm, drop in.

oscar’s bar 25 Victoria St, 07543 900678, gay friendly/mixed, oscars@tiscali.co.uk Sexual Health Clinic Queen Victoria Centre, Thornton Rd, 01524 405 704

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

Brook Advisory 55 Regent Street, Eccles, 0161 707 9550

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

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

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

CLINICs

MorEcAmBe

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

GROUPS

PYRO (Proud Youth Are Out) 07717 301821, pyro@ed.lancscc.gov.uk

CLINICS

Royal Lancaster Infirmary Ashton Community Care Centre, 01524 387402

PRESTON LGBT CENTRE GROUP 07936 712478, meets 1st Wed of the month at Disability Equality (NW), 103 Church St prestonlgbt.co.uk UCLAN LGBT Society Every Thurs at 8.30pm ro@cantthinkstraight.co.uk (female) or martin@cantthinkstraight.co.uk uclan lgbt employee network lgbtstaff@uclan.ac.uk VIBE c/o Young Peoples Service, 07814 493750, LGBT youth group meets Thurs evenings. rachel.heaps@lancashire.gov.uk yps.lancashire.gov.uk/get-vibe

www.lgf.org.uk

43

Blackpool 8 31 48

13 21 27 63

30

23

BlAckpOoL BlAckpOoL HOTELS

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

High Street

53

20 18 47 Pleasant Street

Lord Street

Dickson Road

General Street

Promemade

14

BlAckpOoL

Listings are continually being updated.

Please email your listing to: listings@lgf.org.uk

Anchorage 18 Withnell Road, 01253 341771 1

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

33

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

Athol 3 Mount St 01253 624918

50

61

51

Banks Street 55 23 43 57

General Street

17 58 52

15 33 14 54 36 12

8 Brooklyn 7 Wilton Parade, 01253 627003 9

11

Christines 1 Lord St, 01253 312260

40

42

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

35

13

DERBY HOTEL, 2 Derby Rd, 01253 623708

44

14

Dixon 84 Dickson Rd, 01253 752379

22

15

Edward 27 Dickson Rd, 01253 624271

16

FOUR SEASONS 74 Lord St, 01253 622583

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

41 High Street

30 11

3 10 11 Queen Street

et

Guyz 16 Lord Street, 01253 622488

Kin

13

18

George St.

24

Lenbrook 69 Lord St, 01253 626737

46 Charles St.

25

Liberty's Hotel 01253 291155

Milbourne St.

reet

Caunce St.

25

S. King St.

Loepold Gr.

Coronation St.

Chur ch St

Train Station Tram Stop Parking

Legends Hotel 45 Lord Street, 01253 620300

Chur ch St

reet

9

26 Lonsdale Hotel 25 Cocker Street, 01253 621628 27

Lyndale Court Hotel 01253 354033

28

Lynmar 74 High St, 01253 290046

29

Mardi Gras 41 Lord St, 01253 751087

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

Merecliff Hotel 24 Holmfield Road, 01253 356858 31

88 Venue Indicator

£

44 Seacroft Suites 27 Lord Street, 01253 628304 45 Stratford 72-74 Dickson Road, 01253 624020

Cash Machine Blackpool Tower Pedestrianised

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

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

Registered Charity No.1070904

24

et gS tre

21

88 Hotel Indicator

44

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

Cookson Street

12

43 Sandylands 47 Banks St, 01253 294670

47 SUSSEX HOTEL 14-16 Pleasant Street, 01253 627824

23

Topping Street

Abingdon Street

Promemade

1

34 20

42 Rubens Hotel 39 Lord Street, 01253 622920

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

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

32

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

46 Sunnyside 16 Charles Street, 01253 622983

21

Talbot Road 5

Pier View 16 Banks St, 01253 624555

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

Heatherdale Lodge 2 Pleasant Street, 1253 626268

4

19

Park House 81 Lord St, 01253 314571

29

37

6

63 north grange hotel 238 Queens Promenade, 01253 351409, info@northgrangehotel.com northgrangehotel.com

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

19

26 29 16

37 Northern Star 9 Lord Street, 01253 628073

CHaps 9 Cocker St, 01253 620541

62

8

36 NORTHERN LIGHTS HOTEL 26 Springfield Road, 01253 317016

10

20

North Pier

34 New Hertford 18 Lord Street, 01253 621831

38

Camelot 80 Hornby Rd, 01253 620518

19

15

Dickson Raod

Abingdon Stre

Promemade

27 7

Brene Hotel 37 Lord St, 01253 621854

7

2 1

28

7

34

31

22

28

High Street

40

Lord Street

Promemade

45

Cocker Street 60 24

Dickson Raod

39

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

26

New Bond 72 Lord St, 01253 628123

35 North Central Hoilday Flats 29 Lord Street, 01253 621831

5 Belvedere 77 Dickson Road, 01253 624733 6 BLENHEIM HOTEL 75 Lord Street, 01253 623204, blenheimhotel.org.uk

9 25 10

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

54 Village Hotel 14 Springfield Road, 01253 290840 55 warwick Holiday flats 39 Bank Street, 01253 623787 56 Westfield House 78 Lord Street, 01253 621992, westfieldhouse.co.uk 57 WILLOWFIELD GUESTHOUSE 51 Banks Street, 01253 623406, willowfield-guesthouse.co.uk 58 Windsor House 47 Dickson Road, 0870 620 7000, windsorhousehotel.net 59

Woodleigh 11 Yates St, 01253 624997

Worcester House 22 Cocker Street, 01253 620007 60

Blackpool and cumbria SaUNas ACQUA SAUNA CLUB 25-26 Springfield Road, 01253 294610, acquasaunas.com 22

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

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

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

Pubs, Clubs & BaRs

Cruz Bar 23 Dickson Rd, 07946 528153

26 Connect 01253 751047, connectyoungpeople.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

NHS Drop In Centre 26 Talbot Road, 01253 655871

1

2

3

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

Mardi Gras Mixed 114 Talbot Road, 01253 296262 5

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

EatErIES 12 AJ’s Bistro Gay Friendly 65 Topping Street, 01253 626111 14

Buddies Chippy 28 Dickson Street

27

29

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

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

Evolution Hair Studio Gay Owned 255 Dickson Road Paul’s 5 General St, 01253 290928 unisex hairdresser.

33

Perfect Fit Alterations 42 Topping Street, 01253 290156 34

SMILE SPA AT HELIO FITNESS Newton Drive, 01253 393909

THE GARDEN PLACE Gay Owned Cropper Road, 01253 699987

GROUPS

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

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

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

The Buttery 1 Cheapside, 01253 296667 19

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

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

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

SWOSS (Sex Workers Support Services) 01253 311 431/07811 192 517, drop in on a Monday 2.00-4.00pm at SHIVER. The Renaissance Transgender Support Group meetings twice monthly, gynwayblackpool.com/ renaissance_transgender_forum.htm Transinclusion group (M2F) 3rd Tues of the month 7pm, 07875 355 390

CuMbrIa

CuMbrIa

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

cArLisLe CliNICS

Cumberland Infirmary 01228 814 814

aGENCIES

Connexions 28 Lowther Street, 01228 596272

GrOUPS

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

SaUNaS

Sweat Sauna Club Atlas House, Nelson St.

KenDal CliNICS

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

CuMbrIa aGENCIES Connexions 124 Highgate, 01539 730045 AGENCIES

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

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

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

Nite Bites Gay Friendly 50a Dickson Road, 01253 627976

Relaxation group 01253 311431 at SHIVER

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

Don Antonio 91 Redbank Rd, 01253 352440

17

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

AmBlESidE

18/25 Icebreakers 07878 355 390, for gay & bi men, 1st Tues of the month, 7pm.

16 Mandarin Cantonese Restaurant Gay Friendly 27 Clifton Street, 01253 622687

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

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

Café Latté 30-32 Dickson St, 01253 752077 15

L GIRLS GROUP 07972 409551/07875 355 390, 18+ lesbian/bi women

hotEls & B&B's

BarRow|iN FuRNESs CliNICS

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

aGENCIES

Groups

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

PeNRIth aGENCIES

outREACH Cumbria gaycumbria.info

wHiTeHaveN Groups

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

Connexions 237-241 Dalton Road, 01229 824052

WInDerMerE

GrOUPS

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

lgbtq darts team Wendy Phizacklea, 01229 836 426, 07742 353 520, wendyphizacklea@youngcumbria.org.uk

WorKiNgToN

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

pro active young gays and lesbians (paygal) Wendy Phizacklea, 01229 836 426, 07742 353 520, wendyphizacklea@youngcumbria.org.uk

HOTELS & B&B's

CliNICS

Workington Infirmary Infirmary Lane, 01900 68737

PUBS, CLUBS & BarS

Steam packet inn 51 Stanley St, 01900 62186

south lakes lgbt forum Wendy Phizacklea, 01229 836 426, 07742 353 520, 48-50 Suffolk Street, 13-24 LGBTQ youth meets weekly, wendyphizacklea@youngcumbria.org.uk

Blackpool LGBT Reading Group 01253 478 080, Blackpool Central Library, Queen Street, meetings every last Thursday of the month at 6.30pm. central.library@blackpool.gov.uk HIV/HEP C support group 07878 355 390, call for details.

Lancashire Lad’s group (for trans f to m) 07833 738035, 07768 956640, 07875 355390, meets every 2nd Tuesday of the month at SHIVER, 7pm. lgbt forum 0787 355 390, council led community meeting every 2nd Tues 6.30pm.

LGBT PACT police and community meetings 1st Thurs of the month.

Portraits & Profiles - James Coleman Photos@skinpix.co.uk 07970 575588

www.Bearpix.co.uk www.lgf.org.uk

45

Merseyside

Registered Charity No.1070904

LiVeRpOoL

LiVeRpOoL LiVeRpOoL Queer Quarter

Around FACT Tithebarn Street

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

8

Modo Gay Friendly Concert Square

TRAVEL INN METRO Vernon St, 0870 238 3325

9 Navy Bar 27-29 Stanley Street, 0151 231 1456 10 Poste House 11

23 Cumberland Street

puzzle 25 Stanley Street

12 QUEER NATION Victoria Street, 0151 236 4832

aGENCIES & CLINICs

AIDS Helpline 0151 709 9000

Sahir House PO Box 11, 0151 708 9080, provides services to HIV positive people, their families and freinds, info@sahir.uk.com

13 Superstar Boudoir

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

22 Stray 9 Victoria Street

17 The Armistead Project 1 Stanley St, 0870 9908996, armisteadcentre.co.uk

22-24 Stanley St, 0151 236 6633

14 The Lisbon Mixed 35 Victoria Street, 0151 231 6831 15 The Masquerade Mixed

10 Cumberland St, 0151 236 7786, masqueradebar.com

Club Nights BROKEN BISCUITS Monthly at Jupiters Bar FEDERATION LIVERPOOL Monthly gay night, clubfederation.com GIRLS GO DOWN Monthly lesbian night, myspace.com/girlsgodown Gen-e-sis Vinyl Vasement Bar, Lark Lane, Women’s night last Sunday of the month.

Listings are continually being updated.

Please email your listing to: listings@lgf.org.uk

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

Shops

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

Liverpool Students Union LGBT Society 0151 231 4947 Liverpool Women’s Book Group Meets last Tues of the month, liverpoolbookgroup.com Merseyside L&G Community Forum 07970 680483, newsfromnowhere.org.uk OUR STORY LIVERPOOL 0151 709 4988, LGBT History community project. info@ourstoryliverpool.co.uk ourstoryliverpool.co.uk

20

nice 'n' naughty 16 Colquitt Street

SPIRIT LEVEL 0151 227 1893, Transgender support group.

Liverpool Guild LGBT Society 160 Mount Pleasant, 0151 794 4165, liverpoollgbt@googlemail.com lgos.org/lgbt Young Gay Sefton 0151 330 5841

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

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

ElLeSMerE|PoRT

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

Tea with Teela (TV/CD social) 0151 356 855, 7pm 3rd Monday of the month at Transpose, trans-pose.com

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

GROUPS

utopia (Ellesmere Port) Whitby Rd, Ellesmere Port, 0151 348 5628, LGB youth meets every Tues 6.30-9, eport@utopialgb.org.uk

St Helen’s

SoutHpOrT lth PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS Sexual Hean AXM Southport Coronation Walk, Cli ic axmgroup.co.uk/southport

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

nice 'n' naughty 85 Seel Street

Piccadilly Train Station

Parents & Carers Group 0870 9908996

18 NEWS FROM NOWHERE Bookshop

19

Bold Street

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

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

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

Bold Street

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

2

Berry Street Roscoe Lane

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

HotEls

et

Back Berry Stre

19

Wood Street

Gay Youth ‘r’ OUT (GYRO) 36 Bolton St, 0161 203 0824, LGB youth 16-25, gyro.org.uk

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

Wood Street

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

Roscoe Place

Culquitt Street

London Road

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

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

20 Culquitt Street

Seel Street

GAY & LESBIAN CHRISTIANS Bold Street, 0151 547 3562, christian@portnahaven.fsnet.co.uk

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

6

18

1

Victoria Street

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

4

Fleet Street

126 Bold Street, 0151 709 3735

et

Back Culquitt Stre

Duke Street

1 CAFE TABAC Gay Owned Mathew Street

Parr Street

16

14

EatErIES

Seel Street

Duke Street

Sir Thomas Street

13

Cumberland Street

4

Stanley Street

12

10

Slater Street

FACT

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

3

46

3

9

15

Victoria Street

PUBS, CLUBS & Bars 1 3345 Mixed 33-45 Parr St, 0151 708 6345, 3345parrst.com

Temple Street

22

Temple Lane

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

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

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

The clinic offers a friendly service to meet all your sexual health needs and requirements. Times can be arranged to suit you. We are the first clinic in Merseyside offering rapid HIV testing.

We welcome any person diagnosed with HIV, to manage your care and home visits can be arranged (out of area patients welcome).

Email any questions and queries

health.advisor@sthk.nhs.uk 01744 646 473

CLINICs

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

St|HELens CLINICs

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

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Flex II Tolver St, 01744 758 439

cheshire yorkshire staffs and isle of man CLUB NIGHT

WORK Bridge Street, every Wednesday.

Chester Icebreakers 01244 682574, Quaker House, Union Walk, Frodsham St.

IsLe|oF|MaN

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

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

Dinin’ Divas womens dining group dinindivas@yahoo.com

9 VIADUCT 11 Lower Briggate, 0113 245 4863

tHE|wIrRaL

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

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

DV8 @ The Picture House 46 Conway Street, Birkenhead, 0151 647 8883, Wed 8pm till late, hello@thepicturehousewirral.co.uk

Sole Sisters Penny: 07917 533104 or Sandra: 07921 222101, womens walking group.

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Tallulah’s Late Lounge Rowson St/ Victoria Rd, New Brighton, 0774 7561587, Wed nights till late, marion@tallulas.co.uk

CLINICs

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

aGENCIES

Gay Wirral 0151 666 9890, Terrence Higgins Trust, 5 Bridge St, for all Wirral’s LGBT Community, contact for details, gaywirral@hotmail.co.uk 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 TransWirral 90-92 Chester St, 07833 385126, for TS/Intersex, transwirral.btik.com WIRRAL DIVAS 0151 666 9890, weekly lesbian and bisexual women’s group.

WIRRAL TRANSISTER 07833 385126, for TV/CD. 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

88 Listing Indicator

£

Parking Cash Machine Pedestrianised

MACcLeSfIelD

CLINICs

£

Heaton’s Court (front)

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

11

3

9

CLINIC & agENCIES

10 5 1

Heaton’s Court (back)

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

NOrtHWicH

GROUPS

Blayd’s Mews

8

Leeds.indd 1

SaUNaS

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

RunCoRN

CLINIC

Sexual Health Halton General Hospital, 01928 753217

EaTERIES

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

WARringToN

HUDdERsFiEld

6

Swinegate

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

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

GROUPS

Cheshire Rainbow 01606 867 681, social & support group for LGBT members, thier families and friends in mid-Cheshire, cheshirerainbow@btinternet.com

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

THE GREYHOUND Manchester Road, 01484 420 742 The Calls

1 7

GROUPS

Bar Fibre Lower Briggate, 08701 200888

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

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

HeBDEn BrIdgE

1

12/5/09 12:21:30

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

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

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

Old Red Lion Meadow Lane, 0113 242 6779 4

NELSONS WINE BAR Crown St, 01422 844 782

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

SCaRBoROuGh PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

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

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

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

GROUPS

OLGA 07929 465 044, Older Lesbian, Gay, Bixexual and Transgender Association

White Hart Sankey Street, 01925 241994

CRewE CLINICs

Sexual Health Clinic Lovely Lane, 01925 662476

aGENCIES

Sexual Health Clinic Leighton Hospital, Middlewich Rd, 01270 612255

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

aGENCIES

Gay Healthy Alliance Project PO Box 539, 01925 631101

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

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

GROUPS

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 FLUID (Freedon to Love Ur IDentity) 07747 473 829

StaFfOrdSHIRE PUBS, CLUBS & BarS

THE Club 14 Hillcrest St, 01782 201829

The Three Tuns 9 Bucknall New Road, 01782 769293

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

WE’RE HERE IF YOU NEED US!

GROUPS

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

Registered Charity No.1070904

ChESHire

8

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

ChESHire PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS ChESHire CLINIC

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

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

LEeDs

Parr St.

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

YorKSHire YorKSHire

Briggate

GROUPS

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

YorKSHire SaUNaS

Blayd’s Yard

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

Guys & Dolls Showbar Gay Friendly Peverill Sq, Douglas,

Briggate

SaUNas

UTOPIA (chester) 01244 602812, LGB youth group meets every Weds 7.30-9pm, chester@utopialgb.org.uk

SHOPS

PUBS, CLUBS & BaRS

Gascoigne St.

Sexual Health Clinic Arrowe Park Road, 0151 604 7339

unique tg support group N. Wales & West Cheshire meets 3rd Tues of the Month, 8pm, elen@uniquetg.org.uk uniquetg.org.uk

HOTELS

SPACE 01543 419002, LGBT Youth Group (16-21), youth@mesmen.co.uk Staffordshire Buddies PO Box 474, Stoke on Trent, 01782 201251

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

47