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Welcome to our local lgbt NEWS page for 2021. If it's lgbt news in Weymouth / Portland / Bridport / Dorchester / Dorset area during 2021 we should have it here! |
The start of this year and most of 2020 has been difficult for all with the covid virus. We have had to adapt to a different world. Despite this the local LGBT community have not completely disappeared, but adapted to it with events and support online. There are still local LGBT news events to report, and you can find them below. If you know of anything we have not covered here, please do let us know!
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Weymouth MindOut change of date/time (posted here 05/03/2021) |
Update with new Dates/Times for the MindOut support group that is ran by Nicola (for Weymouth).
It used to run Friday afternoon fortnightly but will now be running Wednesday evening 6-8pm, fortnightly. With the next session being 17th March. You can see a timetable on our website: https://dorsetmind.uk/help-and-support/support-groups/lgbtiq/weymouth/
The group is currently being ran online via zoom, and people can register by emailing us at: adultwellbeingservices@dorsetmind.uk
MindOut is a safe, confidential and accepting space for LGBTIQ+ people experiencing mental health issues. It offers recovery-based peer and staff support.
Each session involves a guided relaxation or mindfulness exercise, time to share experiences and concerns, followed by discussion workshops based on group members’ requests.
Discussions cover a diverse range of topics, for example:
Dorset Mind also run a Mind Out group based in Bournemouth - details - https://dorsetmind.uk/help-and-support/support-groups/lgbtiq/bournemouth/
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It used to run Friday afternoon fortnightly but will now be running Wednesday evening 6-8pm, fortnightly. With the next session being 17th March. You can see a timetable on our website: https://dorsetmind.uk/help-and-support/support-groups/lgbtiq/weymouth/
The group is currently being ran online via zoom, and people can register by emailing us at: adultwellbeingservices@dorsetmind.uk
MindOut is a safe, confidential and accepting space for LGBTIQ+ people experiencing mental health issues. It offers recovery-based peer and staff support.
Each session involves a guided relaxation or mindfulness exercise, time to share experiences and concerns, followed by discussion workshops based on group members’ requests.
Discussions cover a diverse range of topics, for example:
- Coming out to friends and family;
- Developing self-compassion and building self-esteem;
- Managing anxiety;
- Mental health conditions;
- Recovery-based coping skills – like helpful ways of thinking, relaxation and mindfulness.
Dorset Mind also run a Mind Out group based in Bournemouth - details - https://dorsetmind.uk/help-and-support/support-groups/lgbtiq/bournemouth/
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A Survey to gather views from those engaged with gender services in the South West
Hi, I hope you are well.
We are running a survey on behalf of the NHS to gather the views of those using non-surgical gender services - to help inform plans to develop this service.
The survey, which is for anyone that identifies as Transgender or gender diverse, resides in the South West of England and is over the age of 16 years old - has been co-designed by The Intercom Trust with advice from clinical and lived experience representatives from Devon Partnership Trust (DPT).
NHS England and NHS Improvement South West are working with DPT to consider how to develop the service for the future. The review of the service is at a very early stage.
The anonymous survey findings will be independently analysed by The Intercom Trust and will be shared with the NHS to inform the next steps, so we can collectively co-design integrated and person-centred care pathways for Trans and gender diverse people that dovetail in to both primary, community and secondary care settings to meet the needs of 21st Century South West residents.
It is important that we hear from as many voices as possible, so please share the survey amongst your trans contacts and friends that live in the SW. The more people that take part in the survey, the better.
The link to the survey is here: Gender Identity Services Questionnaire Survey (surveymonkey.co.uk)
Thank you and we appreciate any help you can give promoting this important survey.
All the best
Paul Dawson
Office Manager
Pronouns: he / him / his
01392 20 10 15 (direct line)
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Hi, I hope you are well.
We are running a survey on behalf of the NHS to gather the views of those using non-surgical gender services - to help inform plans to develop this service.
The survey, which is for anyone that identifies as Transgender or gender diverse, resides in the South West of England and is over the age of 16 years old - has been co-designed by The Intercom Trust with advice from clinical and lived experience representatives from Devon Partnership Trust (DPT).
NHS England and NHS Improvement South West are working with DPT to consider how to develop the service for the future. The review of the service is at a very early stage.
The anonymous survey findings will be independently analysed by The Intercom Trust and will be shared with the NHS to inform the next steps, so we can collectively co-design integrated and person-centred care pathways for Trans and gender diverse people that dovetail in to both primary, community and secondary care settings to meet the needs of 21st Century South West residents.
It is important that we hear from as many voices as possible, so please share the survey amongst your trans contacts and friends that live in the SW. The more people that take part in the survey, the better.
The link to the survey is here: Gender Identity Services Questionnaire Survey (surveymonkey.co.uk)
Thank you and we appreciate any help you can give promoting this important survey.
All the best
Paul Dawson
Office Manager
Pronouns: he / him / his
01392 20 10 15 (direct line)
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Census 2021 - are you the only Gay in The Village? (posted here 27/02/2021)
Have you ever wondered how many like minded people (LGBT) live in your area or town? Well one result of the upcoming Census is that, that data will become known. You are invited to answer a question about your sexuality in the Census on March 21st. Weymouth Gay Group have been contacted by Joanna Keating the Dorset Census Engagement Manager with some helpful information and a press release (see below). The question development document (link at the end) is an interesting read for those of you who wish to know more. We are grateful to the Dorset LGBT Equality Network for reaching out to our members and introduction with Joanna Keating.
So perhaps, in a years time, we will know how many seats to reserve at our pub meet ups if everyone identified locally as LGBT in the Census turns up!
Have you ever wondered how many like minded people (LGBT) live in your area or town? Well one result of the upcoming Census is that, that data will become known. You are invited to answer a question about your sexuality in the Census on March 21st. Weymouth Gay Group have been contacted by Joanna Keating the Dorset Census Engagement Manager with some helpful information and a press release (see below). The question development document (link at the end) is an interesting read for those of you who wish to know more. We are grateful to the Dorset LGBT Equality Network for reaching out to our members and introduction with Joanna Keating.
So perhaps, in a years time, we will know how many seats to reserve at our pub meet ups if everyone identified locally as LGBT in the Census turns up!
Census 2021 (posted here 27/02/2021)
Census 2021 - LGBTQ+ communities to be recognised for the first time
Press Release from The Office for National Statistics
For the first time, local-level information on the proportion of the population that is lesbian, gay, bi-sexual or transgender will be gathered in next month's census.
Census 2021 - LGBTQ+ communities to be recognised for the first time
Press Release from The Office for National Statistics
For the first time, local-level information on the proportion of the population that is lesbian, gay, bi-sexual or transgender will be gathered in next month's census.
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Run by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) – the UK's largest independent producer of official statistics - the census is the once-in-a-decade survey that gives the most accurate estimate of all people and households in England and Wales. It has been carried out every decade since 1801, except for 1941. Census 2021 will shed light on the needs of different groups and communities and ensure that planning and funding decisions by central and local governments, the NHS and the charity sector are based on the best information possible. As with all census questions, no personal information is shared, data is anonymised before aggregated statistics are used to shape policies and services. Following discussions, testing and research with the public, charities and government bodies, the census will ask two new questions relevant to LGBTQ+ communities on gender identity and sexual orientation. These questions will give a better understanding of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender populations which will help organisations to combat any inequalities these groups may face and show where services are needed. |
The voluntary questions will be asked of those aged 16 years and over, so no one will be forced to answer if they do not want to. People can also request an individual census questionnaire and give their answers separately to their current household if they wish to.
lain Bell, deputy national statistician at the ONS, said: "While ther are estimates of sexual orientation at a national and regional level, it is not possible to produce robust estimates for all local authorities – that's what census data will give.
"And there is no robust data available on gender identity at all. These data are needed by local authorities and service providers to inform the provision of services. The sexual orientation and gender identity questions will be voluntary for people aged 16 and over.
lain Bell, deputy national statistician at the ONS, said: "While ther are estimates of sexual orientation at a national and regional level, it is not possible to produce robust estimates for all local authorities – that's what census data will give.
"And there is no robust data available on gender identity at all. These data are needed by local authorities and service providers to inform the provision of services. The sexual orientation and gender identity questions will be voluntary for people aged 16 and over.
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"Without robust data on the size of the LGBT population at a national and local level, decision-makers are operating in a vacuum, unaware of the extent and nature of disadvantage which LGBT people may be experiencing in terms of health, educational outcomes, employment and housing." Census day is 21 March, with results available in 2022. It is ONS policy never to share personal details, and no-one, including government bodies, will be able to identify individuals in census data. Personal census records will be kept secure for 100 years and only then can future generations view them. The census will be run mostly online, with households receiving a letter with a unique access code in March, allowing them to complete the questionnaire on computers, tablets, phones or laptops. Paper questionnaires will also be available on request, along with language support via a free phone contact centre. For more information, please visit census.gov.uk. |
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Note :- An interesting and fully detailed document about the Sexual orientation question development for Census 2021, how it was researched, developed and tested can be see via this link:-
https://www.ons.gov.uk/census/censustransformationprogramme/questiondevelopment/sexualorientationquestiondevelopmentforcensus2021
https://www.ons.gov.uk/census/censustransformationprogramme/questiondevelopment/sexualorientationquestiondevelopmentforcensus2021
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Dorset LGB&T Network news (posted here 27/02/2021)
If you are not aware of The Dorset LGB&T Equality Network then you may wish to be! They are very active supporting LGBT+ people’s needs at grass roots level and also through the many local government and similar (eg NHS) organisations in Dorset. https://lgbtdorsetequality.network/
Their news page has the following recent news stories that may interest you about their work :-
(click on the link below to see the full story)
If you are not aware of The Dorset LGB&T Equality Network then you may wish to be! They are very active supporting LGBT+ people’s needs at grass roots level and also through the many local government and similar (eg NHS) organisations in Dorset. https://lgbtdorsetequality.network/
Their news page has the following recent news stories that may interest you about their work :-
(click on the link below to see the full story)
- HMP The Verne celebrates LGBT History Month 2021 with fundraising for the Network
- LGBT Homelessness — article for LGBT HM 2021, and news of action:
- Network launches pan-Dorset Census 2021, LGBT+ community support and participation initiative with ONS / Census 2021 with & for our Community and Community organisations & groups
Jonai says "Dorchester Hospital needs LGBT training" after Valentine upset.
(posted here 17/02/2021)
Jonai & Brian are well known in Dorset, attending many local Prides and other LGBT events including some Weymouth Gay Group meetings. Brian has been extremely unwell recently and spent some time in Dorchester Hospital.
(posted here 17/02/2021)
Jonai & Brian are well known in Dorset, attending many local Prides and other LGBT events including some Weymouth Gay Group meetings. Brian has been extremely unwell recently and spent some time in Dorchester Hospital.
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Jonai writes :-
"Last week I took a Valentine card to my husband Brian. I was very clear when I said to one of the staff to give the card to Brian Savage in a male bay bed 11. She took my card to the bay and then turned around and said this is not a female bay and came back to the board and asked me what was my wife's name. I informed her that I have a husband very clearly. Brian received my Valentine card." He went on to add "This just shows that Dorset County Hospital DCH needs LGBT training." We wish Brian a speedy recovery from his operation, and we hope DCH will learn from this incident. Photo right - Jonai at WGG stall Dorchester Love Parade a few years ago |
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Gay Army veteran welcomes chance to reclaim medal (posted here 17/02/2021)
Copy from BBC news website 17.02/2021
An Army veteran discharged in disgrace for being gay has welcomed the chance to reclaim a lost medal.
David Kelsey was stripped of his Northern Ireland service medal following the discovery of his sexuality in the 1980s.
The government has now set up a scheme that will restore honours to sacked LGBT military personnel.
Mr Kelsey, a councillor at Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council, said the move was "long overdue".
You can read the full story on the BBC website here - www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-56098186
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Copy from BBC news website 17.02/2021
An Army veteran discharged in disgrace for being gay has welcomed the chance to reclaim a lost medal.
David Kelsey was stripped of his Northern Ireland service medal following the discovery of his sexuality in the 1980s.
The government has now set up a scheme that will restore honours to sacked LGBT military personnel.
Mr Kelsey, a councillor at Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council, said the move was "long overdue".
You can read the full story on the BBC website here - www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-56098186
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Bourne Free Team 2021 (Posted here 16/02/2021)
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Bournemouth Pride, Bourne Free, have recently on twitter been sharing information about their team for 2021.
Posting on twitter they said - "The whole team are dedicated to supporting the local LGBT+ community and promoting equality and diversity. If anyone needs any help or support during these testing times, we are very much here for you, so please do reach out." You can find out more about all the team members on their twitter account here - @bournefreeuk where they all have a short bio posted. The Bourne Free Pride Weekend 2021 will be held on Friday 9th and Saturday 10th July at Meyrick Park, Bournemouth. (Covid permitting) Scroll down this page for more info about Bourne Free 2021 |
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The Closet Bar Community Hero Awards (posted here 16/02/2021)
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The Closet Bar have recently launched an award for hidden heroes. On facebook they said:-
"We’re looking for your Heroes. We are launching a campaign, designed to recognise the amazing efforts of those hidden heroes in our community that have done amazing things during the coronavirus pandemic. The Closet Community Hero Awards are here to bring a little bit of joy to the community. We are looking for people who have gone that extra mile, been your hero during these difficult times. They could be a Nurse, Carer, Key worker, Teacher, Neighbour or Friend. Anyone who’s been there for you, or bringing people together in the Weymouth & Portland community. We have 20 awards packages up for grabs, which include one of our cocktail packages Closet Goodies. And Hero Certificate. We will feature your winning Heroes on our FB page To nominate your hero simply click on the link below" https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ClosetCommunityAwards |
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Dorset Mind - LGBT Blogs for History Month (posted here 15/02/2021)
Dorset's champion for mental health, Dorset Mind, have posted two LGBT blogs on their website in honour of LGBT+ History Month,
Dorset Mind say:- "Our guest blogger this week is Ben Kaye – Attitude 101 Magazine’s LGBTQ+ Third Sector and Community Trailblazer and LGBTQ+ Lead (Bournemouth) at We Are With You Charity that offers free, confidential support to people in England and Scotland who have issues with drugs, alcohol or mental health."
Ben writes "Body, Mind and Spirit’ is the theme for 2021’s LGBT+ History Month. ‘Body, Mind and Spirit’ can seem hazy to many, but it’s my understanding is that it directly relates to an individual’s mental, physical and emotional/spiritual health"
He goes on to give tips surviving lockdown, putting yourself first, and supporting the LGBT+ community.
You can read his blog here - https://dorsetmind.uk/blog/lgbt-history-month/
Dorset's champion for mental health, Dorset Mind, have posted two LGBT blogs on their website in honour of LGBT+ History Month,
Dorset Mind say:- "Our guest blogger this week is Ben Kaye – Attitude 101 Magazine’s LGBTQ+ Third Sector and Community Trailblazer and LGBTQ+ Lead (Bournemouth) at We Are With You Charity that offers free, confidential support to people in England and Scotland who have issues with drugs, alcohol or mental health."
Ben writes "Body, Mind and Spirit’ is the theme for 2021’s LGBT+ History Month. ‘Body, Mind and Spirit’ can seem hazy to many, but it’s my understanding is that it directly relates to an individual’s mental, physical and emotional/spiritual health"
He goes on to give tips surviving lockdown, putting yourself first, and supporting the LGBT+ community.
You can read his blog here - https://dorsetmind.uk/blog/lgbt-history-month/
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Questioning myself - my LGBT+ journey (posted here 15/02/2021)
In a second Dorset Mind Blog, an anonymous blogger shares their Questing and coming out story. This blog is well worth your time in reading it. The story will be familiar to many of us.
They start off saying "I first realised I probably wasn’t straight when I was 14 or 15. I first started experiencing mental health issues when I was around 10. For me, the two have gone together for longer than I can remember."
This inspirational person goes on to talk about difficulties while a young person, questioning their sexuality, describes their turning point, "finding myself", recovery, and being excited about the future.
They highlight how Education, peer & professional support eventually contributed to their recovery.
They end with this message - "So, this LGBT+ History Month my message to you is this: find your values, find what makes you you and the right people will find you. Whatever your sexual orientation, whatever your gender identity: be proud, because you’re fabulous. And for your mental health, remember: you’re the best friend you could ever have."
Please do check this amazing blog here - https://dorsetmind.uk/blog/questioning-myself-lgbt-plus-journey/
LGBTQ+ Support locally:
If you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community and need support with your mental health, Dorset Mind deliver two support groups in Bournemouth and Weymouth. Follow this link for details.
Questioning myself - my LGBT+ journey (posted here 15/02/2021)
In a second Dorset Mind Blog, an anonymous blogger shares their Questing and coming out story. This blog is well worth your time in reading it. The story will be familiar to many of us.
They start off saying "I first realised I probably wasn’t straight when I was 14 or 15. I first started experiencing mental health issues when I was around 10. For me, the two have gone together for longer than I can remember."
This inspirational person goes on to talk about difficulties while a young person, questioning their sexuality, describes their turning point, "finding myself", recovery, and being excited about the future.
They highlight how Education, peer & professional support eventually contributed to their recovery.
They end with this message - "So, this LGBT+ History Month my message to you is this: find your values, find what makes you you and the right people will find you. Whatever your sexual orientation, whatever your gender identity: be proud, because you’re fabulous. And for your mental health, remember: you’re the best friend you could ever have."
Please do check this amazing blog here - https://dorsetmind.uk/blog/questioning-myself-lgbt-plus-journey/
LGBTQ+ Support locally:
If you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community and need support with your mental health, Dorset Mind deliver two support groups in Bournemouth and Weymouth. Follow this link for details.
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For LGBT History Month, Helen, consultant endocrinologist at RBCH Dorset talks about her work with Transgender people (posted here 15/02/2021)
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On twitter The University Hospitals Dorset @UHD_NHS invite us to celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month. Saying "Staff from our hospitals have shared their stories".
Meet Helen Holt, consultant endocrinologist at RBCH. In her story for LGBT History Month she writes :- "If we can manage people in the right way, the human way, then that is better for everyone in society." Helen, Consultant Endocrinologist at The Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals, helps transgender people on their gender identity journey. She believes passionately that everyone should be treated as an individual Read her story here > bit.ly/3taEuLU |
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To celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month, Geoff talks about his NHS job, and background as a gay man (posted here 15/02/2021)
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Another staff member from Poole & Bournemouth hospitals has shared his story.
Geoff is a matron for specialist medicine, cardiology and ambulatory care at Poole Hospital. He says - My LGBT+ or LGBT ally journey began when I after I undertook the Stonewall leadership program many years ago and it was plain to me that we needed to support our LGBT community within the Trust.I therefore started the LGBT group with the support of my PA as a straight ally.My prime aim was to make people feel included, not marginalised and prevent discrimination Read his story here > https://bit.ly/3cgR9H0 You can follow The Poole / Bournemouth / Christchurch NHS Hospitals on twitter:- University Hospitals Dorset @UHD_NHS |
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Dorset History Centre LGBT Speakout project (posted here 11/02/2021)
Join Dorset History Centre and hear how the LGBT Speakout! project uncovered oral histories from people in Dorset.
Dorset Libraries said on twitter - Join us as we welcome Maria from the @DorsetArchives for this free talk about the LGBT Speakout! project collecting oral histories from people living in the Queer community in Dorset. With Q & A.
24th Feb 3pm Register here:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/oral-histories-the-lgbtqspeakout-project-with-dorset-history-centre-tickets-140997052981?aff=ebdsoporgprofile
Maria Gayton, Community engagement officer from Dorset History Centre will talk about the LGBT Speakout! project collecting oral histories from people living in the Queer community in Dorset. Maria will describe how sensitive outreach uncovered 25 stories which were added to the Dorset Sound Archive during 2020, many of which are now available for anyone to listen. Find out how the project developed and what will happen next. With Q & A.
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Join Dorset History Centre and hear how the LGBT Speakout! project uncovered oral histories from people in Dorset.
Dorset Libraries said on twitter - Join us as we welcome Maria from the @DorsetArchives for this free talk about the LGBT Speakout! project collecting oral histories from people living in the Queer community in Dorset. With Q & A.
24th Feb 3pm Register here:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/oral-histories-the-lgbtqspeakout-project-with-dorset-history-centre-tickets-140997052981?aff=ebdsoporgprofile
Maria Gayton, Community engagement officer from Dorset History Centre will talk about the LGBT Speakout! project collecting oral histories from people living in the Queer community in Dorset. Maria will describe how sensitive outreach uncovered 25 stories which were added to the Dorset Sound Archive during 2020, many of which are now available for anyone to listen. Find out how the project developed and what will happen next. With Q & A.
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Dorset Libraries' LGBTIQ History Month
Novelist Patrick Gale (Posted here 11/02/2021) In a tweet Patrick Gale said :- "As part of Dorset Libraries' LGBTIQ History Month I'll be being interviewed on Feb 22 at 7pm about my queer history take, as seen in recent novels, Man in an Orange Shirt & the upcoming Mother's Boy. It's free but you must register": https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/in-conversation-with-patrick-gale-tickets-140969241797?aff=ebdssbonlinesearch |
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LGBT History Month - February (posted here 06/02/2021)
LGBT History Month is an annual month-long observance of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender history, and the history of the gay rights and related civil rights movements.
In the past, pre covid days, many LGBT History events were run in Dorset. Some still are online.
The website has lots of interesting information see - lgbtplushistorymonth.co.uk/about/
LGBT History Month is an annual month-long observance of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender history, and the history of the gay rights and related civil rights movements.
In the past, pre covid days, many LGBT History events were run in Dorset. Some still are online.
The website has lots of interesting information see - lgbtplushistorymonth.co.uk/about/
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Dorset LGB&T Network news (posted here 06/02/2021)
The Dorset LGB&T Equality Network news page has the following news stories that may interest you -
(click on the link below to see the full story)
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The Dorset LGB&T Equality Network news page has the following news stories that may interest you -
(click on the link below to see the full story)
- The Network receives Bourne Free grant for its NHS LGBT+ Community support work
- LGBT History Month 2021
- Covid 19 — Network, Public Health Dorset, CAN, and DCA ‘Talking Heads’ dedicated LGBT+ Community videos
- Dorset CCG pan-Dorset LGBT+ engagement update regarding Network actions request
- LGBT+ & Healthcare
- Work and collaboration with Dorset Healthcare NHS University Foundation Trust
- Network Homelessness initiative in support to Bournemouth-Christchurch- Poole LGBT+ homeless community:
- LGBT History Month 2021 news — global perspectives: Network supported British Academy Research Project on UK Regional Support Experiences of LGBTQ Refugees and Asylum Seekers
- Network collaboration with HMPPS on LGBT+ engagement, support, and communication
- NHS Dorset Healthcare Trust – LGB&T Dorset Equality Network, Steps 2 Wellbeing programme ground-breaking collaboration
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Bourne Free 2021 Date and theme
(copy from https://bournefree.co.uk/bourne-free-2021-date-and-theme/ Posted first on 20/06/2020 on our 2020 news page)
The Bourne Free Pride Weekend 2021 will be held on Friday 9th and Saturday 10th July at Meyrick Park, Bournemouth.
It was with great sadness that we took the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Bourne Free Pride weekend, especially as we had so many exciting things lined up for our new venue at Meyrick Park. We would like to thank the community, our volunteers, partners, sponsors and contractors for the support they gave us.
The last few months have been very strange and on behalf of all the Bourne Free Trustees we would like to send love and thoughts to the families and friends of everyone affected by Covid19, especially those who have lost a loved one due to this horrible virus.
Alongside the heart-breaking stories on the news we have also seen love and kindness, particularly from our emergency services and key worker heroes. They have shown resilience, bravery and kindness whilst supporting everyone in our community in their time of need regardless of nationality, religious beliefs, gender, race or sexuality. From everyone at Bourne Free we would like to take this opportunity to say thank you and well done.
With this in mind we’re proud to announce that the theme for 2021 will be ‘Stronger Together – Celebrating Our Emergency Services & All Key Workers’. Benjamin Horgan, Chair of Bourne Free, said – “All the Bourne Free Trustees have been blown away by the many stories of courage and hope that we’ve seen over the last few months.”
We want our 2021 Bourne Free Weekend to be an opportunity to recognise the people who are making a difference to our community; from NHS workers and carers to bus drivers, supermarket workers, posties and the unpaid volunteers who’ve given their time willingly. Come dressed to impress as your favourite key worker. From scrubs to uniforms, tabards to overalls and everything in-between to celebrate our real life heroes!
“We can’t wait to see everyone at Bourne Free next year and look forward to working with our principal sponsor Ageas Insurance to bring you a weekend that we promise will be worth waiting for.”
Note - please check nearer to event date that it is still running under any Covid regulations.
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(copy from https://bournefree.co.uk/bourne-free-2021-date-and-theme/ Posted first on 20/06/2020 on our 2020 news page)
The Bourne Free Pride Weekend 2021 will be held on Friday 9th and Saturday 10th July at Meyrick Park, Bournemouth.
It was with great sadness that we took the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Bourne Free Pride weekend, especially as we had so many exciting things lined up for our new venue at Meyrick Park. We would like to thank the community, our volunteers, partners, sponsors and contractors for the support they gave us.
The last few months have been very strange and on behalf of all the Bourne Free Trustees we would like to send love and thoughts to the families and friends of everyone affected by Covid19, especially those who have lost a loved one due to this horrible virus.
Alongside the heart-breaking stories on the news we have also seen love and kindness, particularly from our emergency services and key worker heroes. They have shown resilience, bravery and kindness whilst supporting everyone in our community in their time of need regardless of nationality, religious beliefs, gender, race or sexuality. From everyone at Bourne Free we would like to take this opportunity to say thank you and well done.
With this in mind we’re proud to announce that the theme for 2021 will be ‘Stronger Together – Celebrating Our Emergency Services & All Key Workers’. Benjamin Horgan, Chair of Bourne Free, said – “All the Bourne Free Trustees have been blown away by the many stories of courage and hope that we’ve seen over the last few months.”
We want our 2021 Bourne Free Weekend to be an opportunity to recognise the people who are making a difference to our community; from NHS workers and carers to bus drivers, supermarket workers, posties and the unpaid volunteers who’ve given their time willingly. Come dressed to impress as your favourite key worker. From scrubs to uniforms, tabards to overalls and everything in-between to celebrate our real life heroes!
“We can’t wait to see everyone at Bourne Free next year and look forward to working with our principal sponsor Ageas Insurance to bring you a weekend that we promise will be worth waiting for.”
Note - please check nearer to event date that it is still running under any Covid regulations.
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Intercom Trust helpline
posted here 16/01/2021
The Exeter based Intercom Trust are keen for you to know that they are still there if you need support during these different and difficult times. Info on poster below ....
posted here 16/01/2021
The Exeter based Intercom Trust are keen for you to know that they are still there if you need support during these different and difficult times. Info on poster below ....
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Appeal for support to our Weymouth & Portland LGBT+ community on GP survey on Covid 19 healthcare services
Posted here 16/01/2021
This story is copied from our friends at The Dorset LGBT Eqality Network. https://lgbtdorsetequality.network/
The Network wishes to thank Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) for news of a Weymouth & Portland area NHS General Practices services on NHS healthcare changes since the onset of Covid 19. We, with WGG, wish to thank Dorset CCG Officer, Jim Gammans for his communication below concerning Dorset CCG actively seeking LGBT+ community participation in the survey (deadline for responses 18th December).
As we are sure most community members know, there are a number of areas of reticence in involving in NHS performance and services improvement surveys — survey fatigue, bad experiences of community members using NHS services where LGBT+ support needs are concerned (signposting on ‘Coming Out’ as gay/lesbian/bi, or as Trans, etc.) — and of course encountering direct or perceived homophobic/biphobic and transphobic experiences on accessing or seeking to access NHS services at GP and other levels. The Network is working with pan-Dorset NHS organisations, especially Dorset Healthcare NHS University Foundation Trust to advise and implement the necessary changes required to address this NHS ‘LGBT+ engagement competence,’ community credibility and confidence issues. Here is Jim’s request (at the most conservative/restricted level never less than 6% of our general population in the UK, worldwide, and, yes, Dorset, are LGB&T — realistically speaking our LGBT+ population is more in the 10%+ region):
‘I’ve seen analysis of responses so far and only 2.5% of responses have identified as LGBTQ+, ideally it would be great to get a few more. Is there any chance you could share the survey with your contacts, supporters etc? The link to the survey is below, if you had any questions just message me or email: james.gammans@dorsetccg.nhs.uk. The survey closes next Friday (18th). If you are able to help that’d be great! Many thanks. Jim.
Link to survey: https://bit.ly/330X2Tn / https://wh.snapsurveys.com/s.asp?k=160508914784&ID.site=1
The Network regards this survey as important, and deeply appreciates Jim Gammans concern about very low LGBT+ community uptake on participation (clearly impacted by the very well-known and well-evidenced factors detailed by us above). The Network will in 2021 look forward to pursue Dorset CCG engagement on any particular needs on Weymouth & Portland NHS General Practices, LGBT+ community engagement/communication to seek, where appropriate, meaningful change/improvement.
Lessons and guidance from the Network for our friends in the NHS organisations of Dorset and of Bournemouth/Christchurch/Poole:
It is not always realised at NHS organisations senior management and strategic level just how great an asset for the NHS — and especially NHS credibility on LGBT+ community outreach — are our frontline NHS healthcare professionals who are LGBT+ community members (both Out and not Out as LGB or T). Their incredible record of care & professionalism needs to be properly recorded, and on a structured and regular quarterly to annual basis.
In terms of such NHS healthcare professionals the Network will be in the New Year commending for formal appropriate level recognition of Dorset Healthcare’s LGBT+ Staff Group and Pan-Dorset NHS LGBT Staff Group lead, Mr Jonai Da Silva. Jonai’s accomplishments as a mental healthcare profesional providing often literally, sometimes, life-saving support to both our sisters and brothers in our LGB & T communities, and broader LGB&T and non-LGB&T community in the Weymouth & Portland area, and beyond have been largely restricted in terms of awareness, to those whom he has supported as an exceptional NHS healthcare professional.
Such examples need to be much more effectively publicised if NHS organisations across Dorset and the Bournemouth/Christchurch/Poole area are ready to demonstrate earnestness on meaningful LGB&T communities engagement and support for our Community members (both outside, AND inside the NHS) where counteracting prejudice and indirect discrimination are concerned. The Network is ready to support NHS organisations at strategic to frontline levels in accomplishing that journey.
Posted here 16/01/2021
This story is copied from our friends at The Dorset LGBT Eqality Network. https://lgbtdorsetequality.network/
The Network wishes to thank Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) for news of a Weymouth & Portland area NHS General Practices services on NHS healthcare changes since the onset of Covid 19. We, with WGG, wish to thank Dorset CCG Officer, Jim Gammans for his communication below concerning Dorset CCG actively seeking LGBT+ community participation in the survey (deadline for responses 18th December).
As we are sure most community members know, there are a number of areas of reticence in involving in NHS performance and services improvement surveys — survey fatigue, bad experiences of community members using NHS services where LGBT+ support needs are concerned (signposting on ‘Coming Out’ as gay/lesbian/bi, or as Trans, etc.) — and of course encountering direct or perceived homophobic/biphobic and transphobic experiences on accessing or seeking to access NHS services at GP and other levels. The Network is working with pan-Dorset NHS organisations, especially Dorset Healthcare NHS University Foundation Trust to advise and implement the necessary changes required to address this NHS ‘LGBT+ engagement competence,’ community credibility and confidence issues. Here is Jim’s request (at the most conservative/restricted level never less than 6% of our general population in the UK, worldwide, and, yes, Dorset, are LGB&T — realistically speaking our LGBT+ population is more in the 10%+ region):
‘I’ve seen analysis of responses so far and only 2.5% of responses have identified as LGBTQ+, ideally it would be great to get a few more. Is there any chance you could share the survey with your contacts, supporters etc? The link to the survey is below, if you had any questions just message me or email: james.gammans@dorsetccg.nhs.uk. The survey closes next Friday (18th). If you are able to help that’d be great! Many thanks. Jim.
Link to survey: https://bit.ly/330X2Tn / https://wh.snapsurveys.com/s.asp?k=160508914784&ID.site=1
The Network regards this survey as important, and deeply appreciates Jim Gammans concern about very low LGBT+ community uptake on participation (clearly impacted by the very well-known and well-evidenced factors detailed by us above). The Network will in 2021 look forward to pursue Dorset CCG engagement on any particular needs on Weymouth & Portland NHS General Practices, LGBT+ community engagement/communication to seek, where appropriate, meaningful change/improvement.
Lessons and guidance from the Network for our friends in the NHS organisations of Dorset and of Bournemouth/Christchurch/Poole:
It is not always realised at NHS organisations senior management and strategic level just how great an asset for the NHS — and especially NHS credibility on LGBT+ community outreach — are our frontline NHS healthcare professionals who are LGBT+ community members (both Out and not Out as LGB or T). Their incredible record of care & professionalism needs to be properly recorded, and on a structured and regular quarterly to annual basis.
In terms of such NHS healthcare professionals the Network will be in the New Year commending for formal appropriate level recognition of Dorset Healthcare’s LGBT+ Staff Group and Pan-Dorset NHS LGBT Staff Group lead, Mr Jonai Da Silva. Jonai’s accomplishments as a mental healthcare profesional providing often literally, sometimes, life-saving support to both our sisters and brothers in our LGB & T communities, and broader LGB&T and non-LGB&T community in the Weymouth & Portland area, and beyond have been largely restricted in terms of awareness, to those whom he has supported as an exceptional NHS healthcare professional.
Such examples need to be much more effectively publicised if NHS organisations across Dorset and the Bournemouth/Christchurch/Poole area are ready to demonstrate earnestness on meaningful LGB&T communities engagement and support for our Community members (both outside, AND inside the NHS) where counteracting prejudice and indirect discrimination are concerned. The Network is ready to support NHS organisations at strategic to frontline levels in accomplishing that journey.
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Please make sure you check out all our other pages, lots of local lgbt events, local lgbt news, helplines and news from Weymouth & Portlands 2020 Pride event too!
This page was last updated 05/03/2021 Weymouth Gay Group 2021
email :- weymouthgaygroup@gmail.com Twitter https://twitter.com/WeymouthGayGrp and some where on facebook too!
LGBT helpline 0800 612 3010 *Confidential non-judgemental support* Run by The Intercom Trust (free from UK mobiles & landlines)
Please make sure you check out all our other pages, lots of local lgbt events, local lgbt news, helplines and news from Weymouth & Portlands 2020 Pride event too!
This page was last updated 05/03/2021 Weymouth Gay Group 2021
email :- weymouthgaygroup@gmail.com Twitter https://twitter.com/WeymouthGayGrp and some where on facebook too!
LGBT helpline 0800 612 3010 *Confidential non-judgemental support* Run by The Intercom Trust (free from UK mobiles & landlines)
