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Welcome to our local Dorset LGBT+ Community news for 2023 For 2024 local LGBT+ Community news please check out our page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/lgbt-news-weymouth-dorset-2024.html |
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Dorset LGBT+ Community news
Are you looking at us on a tiny phone screen? Forget it! Why? Because we have LOADS of local DORSET info below!
Check us out on your laptop / PC. Bookmark this page & check back weekly for updates, so that you don't miss anything you might like. We update our website weekly, as their is lots going on to report.
Over 100 news stories from 2023 below for you!
For our new page - of 2024 Dorset LGBT+ Community news see - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/lgbt-news-weymouth-dorset-2024.html
Got some local LGBT news to share? Tell us, tell everyone! email us at [email protected]
Looking for Dorset LGBT community events? Check out our Events Diary listings - often over 35 local events most months! See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
For over 70 local LGBT news stories from 2022, see our news page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/lgbt-news-weymouth-dorset-2022.html
NOTE:- Reports from and links to, other media sources is for your information, and does not necessarily mean approval by WGG.You should contact them directly about their report if you have any comments/info/issues/concerns.
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Dorset LGBT+ Community news
Are you looking at us on a tiny phone screen? Forget it! Why? Because we have LOADS of local DORSET info below!
Check us out on your laptop / PC. Bookmark this page & check back weekly for updates, so that you don't miss anything you might like. We update our website weekly, as their is lots going on to report.
Over 100 news stories from 2023 below for you!
For our new page - of 2024 Dorset LGBT+ Community news see - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/lgbt-news-weymouth-dorset-2024.html
Got some local LGBT news to share? Tell us, tell everyone! email us at [email protected]
Looking for Dorset LGBT community events? Check out our Events Diary listings - often over 35 local events most months! See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
For over 70 local LGBT news stories from 2022, see our news page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/lgbt-news-weymouth-dorset-2022.html
NOTE:- Reports from and links to, other media sources is for your information, and does not necessarily mean approval by WGG.You should contact them directly about their report if you have any comments/info/issues/concerns.
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Scroll down to see ..... LOADS of Dorset LGBT Community news .....
(on a PC / laptop is best)
We have LOADS of Dorset LGBT news below - in case you missed what is going on in our local Dorset LGBT community.
It's all here for you! Here are the 2023 Headlines ..... over 100 LOCAL DORSET stories for you! - keep scrolling down
(on a PC / laptop is best)
We have LOADS of Dorset LGBT news below - in case you missed what is going on in our local Dorset LGBT community.
It's all here for you! Here are the 2023 Headlines ..... over 100 LOCAL DORSET stories for you! - keep scrolling down
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* Our LGBT Dorset review of 2023
* Angle Matt welcomes Portlands LGBTQ+ community * The Cheesy Knob is back! * MindOut Online - new for Dorset * Ask for Angila or Clive - you are safe here * Seasonal shopping suggestions & support * Kick Them Out To Help Us Out! * New local 'LGBT+ Friendship-Line' * Laugh Out Proud Bridport - Ticket discounts! * Closet turns ten! * John Hyde - a tribute * Dorset’s Transgender Day of Remembrance * New in Weymouth! LGBTQ+ Women and NB Meetups * Space gets top marks! - from young LGBT+ people * LGBTQ+ asylum seekers to be moved to Portland’s Barge * Heartstopper filming in Lyme Regis * Weymouth Trans Stone re named! * On a lighter Autumnal note .... and how are you coping? * National Hate Crime Awareness Week Poem * Bournemouth Trans activists gather Flirt Cafe at the Triangle * Dorset same-sex couple facing "gay tax" starting family * New Dorset Online Group for LGBT+ Young people * Seeking LGBT+ families - Maternity & Neonatal insight * Dorset’s LGBT+ Forum asks for people to "step up" * Dorchester Arts. The Script's The Thing * New support for the LGBT+ Travellers community * RuPaul Drag Race - Vicki Vivacious at Closet Bar * Dorchester’s Marvellous Mel in UNICEF School role! * Homophobic abuse at McDonalds Weymouth * Laugh Out Proud Bridport Arts Centre Sat 9th September * New PRIDE Childrens book - with Weymouth connections! * Alan Turing: Stolen items returned to his Sherborne school after 40 years * New! Weymouth Pride 2024 * Spoons News features Weymouth Gay Group * Portland's Barge - LGBT+ Migration & Asylum groups condemn * Dorset school presented LGBT award by Heartstopper stars * Job vacancy - Youth Support Worker Space Youth Project * New LGBTQIA+ comedy night in Bridport * Bridport Literary Festival - Patrick Gale * Bournemouth Pride, reports and loads of pics! * Portland's barge - LGBT+ asylum and immigration. * "This is Me" moves to Dorch * Dorset MP talks "Claptrap" about young Trans people * Dorset Police appeal in search for missing person in Weymouth area * Pride in Store! * Bournemouth Pride - Bourne Free. * Dorset’s record SIX Prides 2023 – a round up so far * Chesil Youth Pride - first ever Pride parade on Esplanade! * New LGBT+ website for Dorset * Ice Cream Space * Weymouth Post Office does Pride! * "Love is Love" Dorset Youth Pride 2023 * Tesco Weymouth - Standing Proud Together |
* A Giant C**k up!
* Dorset brothers book gets: - Highly Commended award * WGG Beer Mats arrive! * Dorchester launches LGBTQIA safe spaces * Pride Parade along Weymouth’s Esplanade! * Dorset Youth Pride returns to Shire Hall Museum, Dorchester * Dorset Mind launch new website - in MH week - with more LGBTQ+ support * Pub Pride May 26th - Weymouth, Dorchester, & Swanage! * Weymouth Gay Group - make the Spoons News! * Patrick Gale Sherborne Library. Reading workshop & in conversation * Shire Hall - home to Dorset Youth Pride - Celebrates 5th birthday * The LGBT+ Voices Dorset Forum * "This is Me Dorset" - New website * "Alex / Alice Bendall: Body in Dorchester river believed to be missing teenager" * Weymouth Pride 2024 ? * Santander Weymouth - "We are proud to support Pride" * Brother. Do. You. Love. Me. * SWR launches UK’s first Intersex-Inclusive Pride train * We now have over 2,500 followers on twitter! * Homophobic graffiti sprayed at Dorchester skatepark * Bridport LGBT - Closed! * Weymouth Gay Group on Instagram * Drag artists in the Bournemouth LGBTQ+ community and partner attacked * LGBT Consortium: - "Weymouth Gay Group celebrates 15 years!" * Gay Community Coffee Mornings & Sunday Roast Dinners * UK Pride dates - & the FOUR Dorset Prides for 2023! * "Weymouth Gay Group marks 15 years" Dorset Echo report * Weymouth Brianna Ghey Vigil * "Why can't we just live our lives?" Vigil held in memory of murdered trans teenager * New images issued in search for missing teenager near Dorchester * Dorchester: woman arrested after throwing items from LGBT+ stand * Prides in Dorset - 3, 4, or even 5 in 2023! * West Dorset Magazine - two pages of WGG! * Dorch Docs LGBT display * One in 20 people in Dorset aged under 35 identify as LGB+ * Weymouth Library LGBT History Month display * New Gay Bar arrives in Weymouth - but it is not what you think! * Dorchester’s "non-binary superstar" heads up HIV testing week * Weymouth Gay Group in Forever with Pride magazine! * Navigating later life - An Age UK LGBT+ Booklet * We will be in these Magazines! * Census 2021 - Dorset LGBT results * Census background * Hep A alert * Have you seen The Pride Bus? * "This is me Weymouth" Transgender etc nights change venue * Some events to look forward to in 2023! |
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Our review of 2023 (posted here 05/01/2024)
Our LGBT Dorset review of 2023 - was the year that we turned 15!
Our LGBT Dorset review of 2023 - was the year that we turned 15!
A very busy year that saw Covid behind us and started with the results of the 2021 Census, published in early 2023 that confirmed there are a lot of you out there! Where are you? Why are you not attending all the Dorset events? Perhaps that was not a census question!
The year both started and ended with the tragic national news about Brianna with her loss. That brought our community together with a vigil on Weymouth’s esplanade supporting each other, and ended with news reports from the Court case. (This will continue into early 2024.)
Our 15th birthday year attracted press coverage in a variety of publications Including: - The West Dorset Magazine, Forever with Pride Magazine, The Dorset Echo, and later in the year the Wetherspoons Magazine. This had a really nice supportive quote from Kim the manager of The Swan (our Thursday home) about our group.
Meanwhile online The LGBT Consortium (of which we are a member) published a very good article about our group which can be seen here - https://www.consortium.lgbt/2023/03/02/weymouth-gay-group-celebrates-15-years/
Despite all the news coverage about our group the numbers attending our Meals Out On Mondays and pub nights did not increase, but we have made some great new contacts and friends in the wider Dorset (and beyond) community.
A very nice birthday gift for our group was our updated logo with a boat flying the progress rainbow flag (Thanks Mike!). Branding updates also appeared on our new beer matts! They are ideal group promotion for our pub-based group.
Despite all the news coverage about our group the numbers attending our Meals Out On Mondays and pub nights did not increase, but we have made some great new contacts and friends in the wider Dorset (and beyond) community.
A very nice birthday gift for our group was our updated logo with a boat flying the progress rainbow flag (Thanks Mike!). Branding updates also appeared on our new beer matts! They are ideal group promotion for our pub-based group.
Dorset celebrated a record number of Pride events during the summer – SIX! With three of them being Pub Prides kicking off Pride month at the end of May. Shire Hall Dorchester hosted again the very popular Dorset Youth Pride, and new for Weymouth was Chesil Youth Pride the highlight being the FIRST ever official Pride parade along our Esplanade!
This was such a brilliant and beautiful event along our sea front. It has always been a dream of our local LGBT+ community to do this. It was suggested for our first Weymouth and Portland Pride in 2019, but did not happen then. So huge respect to Chesil Youth Pride in 2023 who made this happen! They also hosted lots of interesting stalls / groups at Weymouth College. Would be good if repeated if they felt comfortable embracing more of the local LGBT+ community, although we respect this is a young peoples focused event.
This was such a brilliant and beautiful event along our sea front. It has always been a dream of our local LGBT+ community to do this. It was suggested for our first Weymouth and Portland Pride in 2019, but did not happen then. So huge respect to Chesil Youth Pride in 2023 who made this happen! They also hosted lots of interesting stalls / groups at Weymouth College. Would be good if repeated if they felt comfortable embracing more of the local LGBT+ community, although we respect this is a young peoples focused event.
Dorset’s biggest LGBT+ event - Bournemouth Pride – BourneFree again proved to be an enjoyable day out for our guys going out on the train, but a bit wet at times! New for us was having a free advert on the HUGE tv screen next to the stage. Our updated logo with the progress flag looked so colourful as it dominated the Pride field while we sheltered under our rainbow umbrellas!
Two aspects to our group. We have often said there are two aspects to our group, our social pub meets, and our outreach to Dorset’s LGBT+ Community and beyond. Our website, very kindly described by Dorset NHS as “the LGBT Bible locally”, continues to attract a HUGE number of hits and continued evolving during the year. Over 100 Dorset LGBT+ Community News stories were published, from the fun and casual, to the serious issues affecting our community. Our Dorset LGBT+ Community Events page had over 30 local LGBT+ events listed most months, peaking in the summer with around 45. A unique place to see all the events from a wide variety of local and visiting LGBT+ groups & organisations. This is a special service, along with our news page, that we know is much appreciated and we are very proud to provide for our Dorset LGBT+ community.
Arts organisations - Also, of note – and promoted on our website, are the LGBT+ events of interest put on by a number of different local Arts organisations and Theatres across our area. Weymouth, Dorchester, Bridport and Poole all hosted events of interest to our community. Brill to see them doing so. We helped to promote them on our website.
Our book of the year, with lots of Dorset connections is a must read! The award winning “Brother. Do. You. Love. Me.” A wonderful true-life story of brotherly love. Tears and love. Due out in 2024 in paperback, it has been featured on many national media outlets and BBC Radio 4s Ramblings (Claire Balding) did a beautiful programme with the brothers with a walk near Bridport.
In Weymouth - if we had to choose a shop of the year- it would go to – Weymouth Post Office. Vicky puts on a wonderful colourful window display every Pride month. She also welcomed our WGG beer mats and posters adding to the many rainbow gifts there. A first-class post office!
The Bibby Barge based in our patch (Portland), attracted a lot of national media attention and controversy during the year. Our concern has always been for any gay/bi guys based there and this resulted in a good news story in the Dorset Echo reporting our support for them (we made page two!). Good to know that one of our guys (with a different “hat on”) is supporting all the community there. We added Rainbow Migrants (and similar groups) to our website helplines page.
Other LGBT+ groups It’s been good to see other LGBT+ groups in Dorset developing during 2023, The Gay OutDoor Club continued to run walks around Dorset.
While both Space Youth Project and Dorset Mind (MindOut) have added online groups to their portfolio of physical meet ups. The new Ladies social group in Weymouth is most welcomed and fills a very valuable role. The Geranium Trust in North Dorset added a phone friendship line to their LGBT+ coffee mornings and Gay Roast Dinners for gay guys.
Nationally for our community 2023 has been a disappointing year politically, with the UK Government slow or not advancing equality & diversity. The Lack of Gov action eg- conversion therapy ban being just one of many issues. Hostility towards parts of our community (esp Trans/NB), along with the negativity in the press left many in our community feeling alienated and depressed after so many Government promises (reported in Pink News, & by Stonewall etc). Looking towards 2024, which may well be an election year we hope it will be a time to embrace positive change.
Huge thanks to all of you who have joined us in the pub during 2023. See you again soon. Lots to mull over for 2024!
Thursdays The Swan (Wetherspoons) Weymouth, table 26 near fire exit, 8pm – late. All welcome!
C
WGG
Jan 2024
Huge thanks to all of you who have joined us in the pub during 2023. See you again soon. Lots to mull over for 2024!
Thursdays The Swan (Wetherspoons) Weymouth, table 26 near fire exit, 8pm – late. All welcome!
C
WGG
Jan 2024
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Angle Matt welcomes Portlands LGBTQ+ community (posted here 27/12/2023)
From BBC Dorset (26/12/2023) - Advent Angels: The people making Portland a better place.
More info with photos see - www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-67784604
A community group has released a list of people who have gone above and beyond to make their island a better place in 2023. Advent Angels is run by Island Community Action (ICA) and invites residents on Portland, Dorset, to nominate people who have helped others. A total of 24 people were recognised - one for each day of advent.
A well-loved reception class teacher, Mr (Matt) Blanthorn helps to run Epic Games Dorset, a community group for table-top board-gamers. The group provides a safe, welcoming space for people of all ages, genders and abilities to socialise and develop problem-solving skills. With almost 100 members, Mr Blanthorn has created a space for those with neurodivergence, physical disabilities and those from the LGBTQ+ community to "be themselves".
Link - www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-67784604
From BBC Dorset (26/12/2023) - Advent Angels: The people making Portland a better place.
More info with photos see - www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-67784604
A community group has released a list of people who have gone above and beyond to make their island a better place in 2023. Advent Angels is run by Island Community Action (ICA) and invites residents on Portland, Dorset, to nominate people who have helped others. A total of 24 people were recognised - one for each day of advent.
A well-loved reception class teacher, Mr (Matt) Blanthorn helps to run Epic Games Dorset, a community group for table-top board-gamers. The group provides a safe, welcoming space for people of all ages, genders and abilities to socialise and develop problem-solving skills. With almost 100 members, Mr Blanthorn has created a space for those with neurodivergence, physical disabilities and those from the LGBTQ+ community to "be themselves".
Link - www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-67784604
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The Cheesy Knob is back! (Posted here 23/12/2023 updated 30/12/2023)
Dorset Cheese fans will be pleased to know that the Knob is back!
Dorset Cheese fans will be pleased to know that the Knob is back!
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On twitter - (aka X) Steve Harris - BBC Radio Solent's Dorset Breakfast presenter reposted this .... "The Holly & the Ivan" post with this news. (below) |
Zoom in if you wish!
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"Long time readers may remember my unexpectedly viral tweet from earlier this year below. I can now report that I have returned to the shop and the Cerne Abbas manhood has now been restored. A victory for common sense and good old British filth."
Via our WGG twitter (X) here - https://twitter.com/WeymouthGayGrp
The Dorset Echo have reported this story recently (30/12/2023) with a good write up about the background to the disappearing "manhood". See - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24018284.cheese-company-gives-cerne-abbas-giant-manhood-back/
The BBC have a good recent (01/01/2024) story about the hisory of The Cern Abbas Giant here - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-67717015
Via our WGG twitter (X) here - https://twitter.com/WeymouthGayGrp
The Dorset Echo have reported this story recently (30/12/2023) with a good write up about the background to the disappearing "manhood". See - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24018284.cheese-company-gives-cerne-abbas-giant-manhood-back/
The BBC have a good recent (01/01/2024) story about the hisory of The Cern Abbas Giant here - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-67717015
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MindOut Online - new for Dorset
(Posted here 16/12/2023)
From Bournemouth Echo 16/12/2023
www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/23990082.dorset-mind-creates-online-space-queer-community/
Dorset Mind creates online space for queer community
A DORSET mental health charity has launched a new online support group aimed at the LGBTQ+ community.
MindOut Online is an exclusive mental health support group for the queer community created by Mind Dorset.
The sessions ‘will complement the existing in-person support groups and will be accessible to individuals across the region’. Each session will last two hours weekly to help LGBTQ+ individuals with mental health issues.
The sessions will be hosted by trained practitioners who specialise in LGBTQ+ issues.
Dorset Mind CEO, Linda O’Sullivan, said: "MindOut Online represents our commitment to providing inclusive and accessible mental health support. “We understand the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community and believe that offering a dedicated online space for support will greatly benefit individuals who may seek understanding, guidance, and a sense of community."
MindOut facilitator John Nevin added: “The members who have already joined the online group have said it is an uplifting and safe space where they are able to share their experiences, positive and negative; around their sexuality and gender identity and the impacts upon their mental health.”
Each session includes reserved time to share experiences and concerns along with interactive workshops adapted to the needs of the queer community. To join MindOut Online, visit Dorset Mind’s website.
Links:-
Dorset Mind https://dorsetmind.uk/what-we-offer/adult-services/adult-groups/mind-out-lgbtq/
Note we have listed MindOut Online on our WGG website monthly LGBT Community Events Diary listing page. See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
Dorset Mind are still running their weekly MindOut group in Bournemouth which meets up every Thursday in the town.
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(Posted here 16/12/2023)
From Bournemouth Echo 16/12/2023
www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/23990082.dorset-mind-creates-online-space-queer-community/
Dorset Mind creates online space for queer community
A DORSET mental health charity has launched a new online support group aimed at the LGBTQ+ community.
MindOut Online is an exclusive mental health support group for the queer community created by Mind Dorset.
The sessions ‘will complement the existing in-person support groups and will be accessible to individuals across the region’. Each session will last two hours weekly to help LGBTQ+ individuals with mental health issues.
The sessions will be hosted by trained practitioners who specialise in LGBTQ+ issues.
Dorset Mind CEO, Linda O’Sullivan, said: "MindOut Online represents our commitment to providing inclusive and accessible mental health support. “We understand the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community and believe that offering a dedicated online space for support will greatly benefit individuals who may seek understanding, guidance, and a sense of community."
MindOut facilitator John Nevin added: “The members who have already joined the online group have said it is an uplifting and safe space where they are able to share their experiences, positive and negative; around their sexuality and gender identity and the impacts upon their mental health.”
Each session includes reserved time to share experiences and concerns along with interactive workshops adapted to the needs of the queer community. To join MindOut Online, visit Dorset Mind’s website.
Links:-
Dorset Mind https://dorsetmind.uk/what-we-offer/adult-services/adult-groups/mind-out-lgbtq/
Note we have listed MindOut Online on our WGG website monthly LGBT Community Events Diary listing page. See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
Dorset Mind are still running their weekly MindOut group in Bournemouth which meets up every Thursday in the town.
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Ask for Angila or Clive - you are safe here (posted here 14/12/2023 updated 16/12/2023)
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Copy from our WGG X (aka twitter)
We love this! In THE SWAN (Gents loos!) #Wetherspoons #Weymouth #Dorset Everyone needs to be safe on a night out. Brill when you know a venue is so supportive & understanding. Incl #Transgender #Trans #NB Simialr to "#AskforClive" which many #LGBT+ people may know via @clive_ask #PubPride |
The Swan (Wetherspoons) in St Thomas Street Weymouth is the home of Weymouth Gay Group every Thursday on or around table 26 right hand corner by fire exit. (click on photo to enlarge)
We asked Kim, manager The Swan if "Angela" included Trans* & gender diverse people. "Yes" she said!
We asked Kim, manager The Swan if "Angela" included Trans* & gender diverse people. "Yes" she said!
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Seasonal shopping suggestions & support
(posted here 11/12/2024)
With the festive season approaching we would like to highlight a few shopping suggestions and support for those who find this time of year difficult.
Several Weymouth shops adorn their shelves with rainbow gifts, some like Weymouth Post Office, and The Weymouth Sweet Shop do so most of the year.
(posted here 11/12/2024)
With the festive season approaching we would like to highlight a few shopping suggestions and support for those who find this time of year difficult.
Several Weymouth shops adorn their shelves with rainbow gifts, some like Weymouth Post Office, and The Weymouth Sweet Shop do so most of the year.
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We have always loved the mugs – stuffed with fudge – at The Weymouth Sweet Shop in St Marys Street. Ideal for your home or an office friend! The Weymouth Sweet Shop 24 St Mary St, Weymouth DT4 8PN |
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Our Weymouth Gay Group friends Barry & Dan at “Baan 57” in St Alban Street Weymouth always have a super range of gifts, many with an Asian origin.
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Some rainbow themed ones too. A great place to shop for that slightly different gift. You can also shop with them online –
Address:- Baan 57 7-8 St Alban Street Weymouth DT4 88Z Website:- www.Baan57.co.uk 
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If you are popping into Weymouth’s Post Office, sending your cards and parcels off do say hi to our friend the wonderful Vicky, and check out their rainbow gifts.
Although not quite as many as during last Pride month, their selection is well worth keeping an eye on during the year. |
Weymouth Post Office 87 St Thomas Street, Weymouth DT4 8EN
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An alternative idea for a gift is an annual membership to a LGBT+ group. The GayOut Door Club (GOC) who run regular walks in Dorset, is one such suggestion. See - https://www.goc.org.uk/gay-outdoor-club/
If you know of other Weymouth outlets with LGBT+ related gifts, please do let us know.
(email [email protected])
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If the festive season is not for you and you struggle, or you know someone who does, please remember there are serval help and support groups you can connect with.
The Samaritans are there 24/7 even over the holiday season, and we Weymouth Gay Group have a page full of (many local) helplines & support groups. See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html 
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Kick Them Out To Help Us Out! (posted here 11/12/2023)
Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) is a nonpolitical group, and we welcome people with a variety of views around our pub tables. We embrace diversity, and expect you to respect this at our group and online.
Have some of our recent posts on social media been a bit more political? This may well reflect the over whelming views (and frustrations) of those at and around our pub tables.
The present Governments record of very poor support for our LGBT+ community is well recorded by groups like Stonewall and the LGBT Consortium of which WGG is a member.
Locally our MP has shown how transphobic he is.
WGG news page - 03/07/2023 Dorset MP talks "Claptrap" about young Trans people
So will it soon be time to: - ?
KICK THEM OUT TO HELP US OUT!
You can express your views on our table 26, Swan every Thursday.
Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) is a nonpolitical group, and we welcome people with a variety of views around our pub tables. We embrace diversity, and expect you to respect this at our group and online.
Have some of our recent posts on social media been a bit more political? This may well reflect the over whelming views (and frustrations) of those at and around our pub tables.
The present Governments record of very poor support for our LGBT+ community is well recorded by groups like Stonewall and the LGBT Consortium of which WGG is a member.
Locally our MP has shown how transphobic he is.
WGG news page - 03/07/2023 Dorset MP talks "Claptrap" about young Trans people
So will it soon be time to: - ?
KICK THEM OUT TO HELP US OUT!
You can express your views on our table 26, Swan every Thursday.
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New local 'LGBT+ Friendship-Line' (posted here 02/12/2023)
One of the many joys about joining a local LGBT+ community group is hearing about the support and kindness others offer. Paul, who occasionally attends Weymouth Gay Group with Brian and friends, recently emailed Weymouth Gay Group with some exciting news!
Paul and his team at The Geranium Trust are already champions supporting our LGBT+ community, particularly the older often isolated individuals. They run a very popular 'Sunday Roast Dinner' for gay men held on the last Sunday in the month and a 'Drop In Coffee Morning', for the LGBT+ community, on the 2nd Saturday in the month.
(We list them on our WGG LGBT+ Community Events Page - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html )
They have announced that they will soon be starting a "LGBT+ Friendship - Line". "It's a way of supporting those who find it difficult to attend the monthly social events at The Court House in Stoford near Yeovil." said Paul.
One of the many joys about joining a local LGBT+ community group is hearing about the support and kindness others offer. Paul, who occasionally attends Weymouth Gay Group with Brian and friends, recently emailed Weymouth Gay Group with some exciting news!
Paul and his team at The Geranium Trust are already champions supporting our LGBT+ community, particularly the older often isolated individuals. They run a very popular 'Sunday Roast Dinner' for gay men held on the last Sunday in the month and a 'Drop In Coffee Morning', for the LGBT+ community, on the 2nd Saturday in the month.
(We list them on our WGG LGBT+ Community Events Page - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html )
They have announced that they will soon be starting a "LGBT+ Friendship - Line". "It's a way of supporting those who find it difficult to attend the monthly social events at The Court House in Stoford near Yeovil." said Paul.
On their website they say:-
"The Geranium Trust offers friendship & support to less fortunate & disadvantaged members of society including those living with illness, bereavemen & loneliness.
We also work alongside LGBT+ groups such as Weymouth Gay Group and Gay West, offering friendship and support by organising regular monthly roast dinners and 'Drop In' coffee mornings for those who are feeling isolated. There is also our NEW Geranium Trust LGBT+ Friendship Line".
"For older and housebound members of the community who may find it difficult to come to the dinner, or the coffee mornings and are feeling lonely & isolated we can arange for you to have a regular weekly phone call from someone who is also LGBT+. If you, or somebody that you know, would benefit from this service."
Please email - [email protected]
Thank you Paul & all at Geranium Trust, and hope to see you all in Weymouth sometime soon!
"The Geranium Trust offers friendship & support to less fortunate & disadvantaged members of society including those living with illness, bereavemen & loneliness.
We also work alongside LGBT+ groups such as Weymouth Gay Group and Gay West, offering friendship and support by organising regular monthly roast dinners and 'Drop In' coffee mornings for those who are feeling isolated. There is also our NEW Geranium Trust LGBT+ Friendship Line".
"For older and housebound members of the community who may find it difficult to come to the dinner, or the coffee mornings and are feeling lonely & isolated we can arange for you to have a regular weekly phone call from someone who is also LGBT+. If you, or somebody that you know, would benefit from this service."
Please email - [email protected]
Thank you Paul & all at Geranium Trust, and hope to see you all in Weymouth sometime soon!
Links
Website https://www.geraniumtrust.org/
This website page will interest LGBT+ people - www.geraniumtrust.org/you-are-not-alone
email [email protected]
seperate service for members of the LGBT+ community. email: [email protected]
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Website https://www.geraniumtrust.org/
This website page will interest LGBT+ people - www.geraniumtrust.org/you-are-not-alone
email [email protected]
seperate service for members of the LGBT+ community. email: [email protected]
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Laugh Out Proud Bridport - Ticket discounts!
Saturday December 9th 8:00pm
Laugh Out Proud, taking place at Bridport Arts Centre are kindly offering anyone from the Weymouth area a discount on tickets. Its no joke!
Dee Fenton General Manager said in an email to Weymouth Gay Group:-
If anyone is considering making the epic journey from Weymouth to Bridport for this, we will discount adult ticket price of £14 by 10%.
Laugh Out Proud is London's brand new LGBTQIA+ comedy night. Featuring the best in established and upcoming acts from the community on the UK comedy circuit. Laugh Out Proud at Bridport Arts Centre will feature the stand-up-comedy delights of Mark Cram, Kate Martin and Katie Price.
This night is all about giving acts and audiences alike a fun and friendly place to express themselves, kick back, have a laugh and good time in an inclusive and welcoming comedy club environment. Whether it’s comedy, cabaret or anything in between – Laugh Out Proud is the queer night out you’re looking for.
More info - https://www.bridport-arts.com/event/laugh-out-proud-december/
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Saturday December 9th 8:00pm
Laugh Out Proud, taking place at Bridport Arts Centre are kindly offering anyone from the Weymouth area a discount on tickets. Its no joke!
Dee Fenton General Manager said in an email to Weymouth Gay Group:-
If anyone is considering making the epic journey from Weymouth to Bridport for this, we will discount adult ticket price of £14 by 10%.
Laugh Out Proud is London's brand new LGBTQIA+ comedy night. Featuring the best in established and upcoming acts from the community on the UK comedy circuit. Laugh Out Proud at Bridport Arts Centre will feature the stand-up-comedy delights of Mark Cram, Kate Martin and Katie Price.
This night is all about giving acts and audiences alike a fun and friendly place to express themselves, kick back, have a laugh and good time in an inclusive and welcoming comedy club environment. Whether it’s comedy, cabaret or anything in between – Laugh Out Proud is the queer night out you’re looking for.
More info - https://www.bridport-arts.com/event/laugh-out-proud-december/
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Closet turns ten! (posted here 25/11/2023)
Weymouth's Gay Bar - The Closet turns ten years old with some special guests kicking off the weekend party on both December 1st & 2nd.
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The Dorset Echo reported- (25/11/2023) Ru Paul Drag Race UK star Baga Chipz at Closet in Weymouth. Baga Chipz is bringing a night of drag fun to The Closet Bar and Nightclub in Maiden Street, Weymouth town centre, on Saturday, December 2. Baga is known for competing on the first series of RuPaul's Drag Race UK in 2019 and later the first season of RuPaul's Drag Race: UK vs the World. |
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The evening begins at 8.30pm and continues until 4.30am. Meet and greet tickets and general admission tickets are on sale now. Go to the website https://www.tickettailor.com/events/thecloset? for more information
Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) is pleased to be associated with The Closet Bar over the last ten years.
Noteable events have been Weymouth Carnival (photo left) many years ago when The Closet had a float with the huge rainbow flag trailing behind. Several of our WGG guys helped to carry it along the seafront.
Weymouth & Portland Pride would not have been possible in 2019 without the support of The Closet Bar. Organised by Jamie (Owner / manager Closet Bar) and a committee which included one of our WGG guys. The Pride event was Weymouth's first. You can see photos and read about its history on our Pride page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/weymouth--portland-pride.html
So its Happy 10th Birthday to The Closet Bar, and here's to the next decade of The Closet Bar providing a safe and welcoming venue not only for our community, but all in and visiting Weymouth.
Links:-
Closet Bar website - https://closetweymouth.co.uk/ (note their website is not very upto date, and does not have their above posters on it)
X (aka twitter) https://twitter.com/ClosetWeymouth (sadly not active since June 2021)
facebook - search "Closet Bar Weymouth"
Links:-
Closet Bar website - https://closetweymouth.co.uk/ (note their website is not very upto date, and does not have their above posters on it)
X (aka twitter) https://twitter.com/ClosetWeymouth (sadly not active since June 2021)
facebook - search "Closet Bar Weymouth"
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John Hyde - a tribute (posted here 18/11/2023 updated 25/11/2023, updated with funeral details 30/11/2023)
John Hyde, also known as Father or Canon John Hyde recently passed away.
John Hyde, also known as Father or Canon John Hyde recently passed away.
He was known to many of us in Dorsets LGBT+ community through his voluntary work, where he often took a leading role. To his credit he always made time to meet LGBT+ people to help them with any problems whenever he could. He was a really kind man, and full of love and care for those he met.
We knew him from his time years ago with Dorset Mind when he used to run the Bournemouth based Mind Out LGBT mental health support group. A small group of us from Weymouth would attend most weeks.
Always very bubbly, his smile and humour helped to lift the spirits of those of us in darker places. He genuinely cared about individual people, and empathised with people struggling with "the system", which he was so keen to help change.
It's a brilliant living tribute to him that the groups he was involved with, sometimes helping to start up - including Dorset Mind Mind Out, Dorset LGBT Network, Space Youth Project, Silver Moments, and his Church commitments - are still running and many have become key organisations in Dorsets LGBT+ community. He was also involved with World AIDS days and Transgender Day of Remembrance services.
Above photo thanks to DWFirePride
An amazing man who will be missed by many. Weymouth Gay Group are very shocked and saddened at this loss, and our thoughts are with his Husband Peter, his family, and friends at this time.
The Memorial Service for Father John Hyde will take place at 1pm on Monday, 18th December 2023 at the Sheila Kendrick Ceremony Suite, A.E.Jolliffe & Son, 17, Victoria Road, Ferndown, BH22 9HT.
The Memorial Service for Father John Hyde will take place at 1pm on Monday, 18th December 2023 at the Sheila Kendrick Ceremony Suite, A.E.Jolliffe & Son, 17, Victoria Road, Ferndown, BH22 9HT.
The LGBT+ Network for Change (formerly LGB&T Dorset Equality Network) has this below (before his passing) about John on their Network Team page -
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John, is a proactive and greatly respected LGBT community figure across the Bournemouth/Poole/Christchurch conurbation and the Dorset County area. His reputation for community support in the pan-Dorset area has been developed over decades. John and his husband Peter are Poole residents. John though semi-retired, still continues to provide carer support services at Bournemouth/Southbourne area care homes. Amongst many more areas of LGBT community service Fr John has for many years been providing annual World AIDS days services (such as at Bournemouth Triangles LGBT venue DYMK) and Transgender Day of Remembrance services (Bournemouth and Dorchester). Fr John was the first to answer the call of Network Lead Officer, lead initiator/architect Alan Mercel-Sanca, when Alan through his NHS engagement work first raised call for the need to support often overlooked or especially vulnerable community sub-population groups. |
Above from Bournemouth Echo via LGBT Network for Change website.
Click on image to enlarge. |
John was the Network’s first Chair from the Network’s creation as a Charity Commission recognised charity in early 2016. He has and continues to provide through the Network support activity for HMP The Verne’s (Portland) LGB and Trans residents and staff. John was also a veteran Trustee at the Dorset area Space Youth Project for many years before retiring due to poor health. He was also a senior advisor when the ground-breaking Rufus Stone Film was developed, and he was founder and is lead of the Silver Moments LGBT social meeting group.
Links:-
Speaking Out on end of life care - Bournemouth Echo interview with Network Chair Fr John Hyde lgbtnetwork4change.com/speaking-out-on-end-of-life-care-bournemouth-echo-interview-with-network-chair-fr-john-hyde/
The LGBT Network for change have published their tribute to John.
See - https://lgbtnetwork4change.com/very-sad-news-of-first-chair-of-the-network-fr-john-hydes-passing/
If you knew John, and would like to post a tribute here, please contact us - [email protected]
Posted on X (aka twitter) by DWFirepride @DWFirepride
We would like to pass on our condolences to the family and friends of Canon John Hyde who passed away - John was a fantastic person who was a great friend of DWfirepride and who was always eager to see us at events .
"Dorset Mind is so sad to hear the news, Father John was inspirational and supported so many in his time - as you may know he started our MindOut group many years ago, which continues today and is more needed than ever.
It is a great loss to the local community, may he rest in peace. Our sincere condolences to his husband Peter and his family and friends."
Dee. Dorset Mind.
Our LGBT community has lost a best friend, as Father John Hyde recently passed away. We remember him with great affection. May he rest in peace.
Jonai and Brian
Father John was such a gentle, compassionate and generous soul and gave so much to so many people, particularly and often the people who had the least to give.
He achieved so much in helping so many people through setting up the Dorset Mind Support groups including Mindout and Turbary Park Lunch club at a time where LGBT+ groups were very few and far between. This group continues to this day and is thriving.
Father John also started Silver Moments a social group for older LGBT+ people understanding too well the isolation and the experience of being othered, particularly, within the older LGBT+ communities.
Father John have so much of his time to his spiritual service also befriending and being with people in their final moments and conducting funerals for people who couldn’t afford them or who might not have any loved ones they were leaving behind. He was with so many people in their darkest hours and greatly encouraged me throughout my time working within the LGBT+ community.
I will greatly miss his wicked sense of humour and knowing that his light no longer shines so bright in this world makes me feel very sad.
You are loved and missed Father John Hyde and I wish you the very sweetest of dreams x (wink emoji)
Mandy Nicholson
Speaking Out on end of life care - Bournemouth Echo interview with Network Chair Fr John Hyde lgbtnetwork4change.com/speaking-out-on-end-of-life-care-bournemouth-echo-interview-with-network-chair-fr-john-hyde/
The LGBT Network for change have published their tribute to John.
See - https://lgbtnetwork4change.com/very-sad-news-of-first-chair-of-the-network-fr-john-hydes-passing/
If you knew John, and would like to post a tribute here, please contact us - [email protected]
Posted on X (aka twitter) by DWFirepride @DWFirepride
We would like to pass on our condolences to the family and friends of Canon John Hyde who passed away - John was a fantastic person who was a great friend of DWfirepride and who was always eager to see us at events .
"Dorset Mind is so sad to hear the news, Father John was inspirational and supported so many in his time - as you may know he started our MindOut group many years ago, which continues today and is more needed than ever.
It is a great loss to the local community, may he rest in peace. Our sincere condolences to his husband Peter and his family and friends."
Dee. Dorset Mind.
Our LGBT community has lost a best friend, as Father John Hyde recently passed away. We remember him with great affection. May he rest in peace.
Jonai and Brian
Father John was such a gentle, compassionate and generous soul and gave so much to so many people, particularly and often the people who had the least to give.
He achieved so much in helping so many people through setting up the Dorset Mind Support groups including Mindout and Turbary Park Lunch club at a time where LGBT+ groups were very few and far between. This group continues to this day and is thriving.
Father John also started Silver Moments a social group for older LGBT+ people understanding too well the isolation and the experience of being othered, particularly, within the older LGBT+ communities.
Father John have so much of his time to his spiritual service also befriending and being with people in their final moments and conducting funerals for people who couldn’t afford them or who might not have any loved ones they were leaving behind. He was with so many people in their darkest hours and greatly encouraged me throughout my time working within the LGBT+ community.
I will greatly miss his wicked sense of humour and knowing that his light no longer shines so bright in this world makes me feel very sad.
You are loved and missed Father John Hyde and I wish you the very sweetest of dreams x (wink emoji)
Mandy Nicholson
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Dorsets Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR) (posted here 11/11/2023)
This annual event is taking place again in Bournemouth on 20th November.
Old Fire Station Bournemouth BH8 8AD. 6pm
Transgender Day of Remembrance, also known as the International Transgender Day of Remembrance, has been observed annually on November 20 as a day to memorialize those who have been murdered as a result of transphobia.
Folowing the service, a seperate room with a bar will be available for those who desire to be around others following the evenings events to chat and share with one another.
Organised by Inclusive Community Church. Bournemouth
Phone: 0300 123 7773
E-mail: [email protected]
website https://www.inclusive.church/
X (aka twitter) @inclusivecommch
We are grateful to Brian & Jonai for this link from The Human Rights Campaign -
Fatal Violence Against the Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Community in 2023
See - www.hrc.org/resources/fatal-violence-against-the-transgender-and-nonbinary-community-in-2023
Jonai (originally from Brazil), attends our WGG pub meet ups when he can, also points out ....
From the fiscal year of 2016 to the fiscal year of 2021, at least 964 trans and gender-diverse people were murdered in Brazil. The highest number of victims was registered in the fiscal year of 2017, when 171 victims were reported.
See - https://www.statista.com/statistics/1276989/number-trans-murders-brazil/
Here is a very good link in case you have not heard about TDoR before, and wish to know why it is needed:-
See - www.stonewall.org.uk/about-us/news/trans-day-remembrance-what-it-and-why-it-needed
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New in Weymouth!
LGBTQ+ Women and NB Meetups
(posted here 02/11/2023)
Weymouth has lacked an exclusive safe and supportive place for LGBTQ+ Women to meet up informally for some time.
In the past there have been local LGBT+ coffee shop meetups, and we believe a Lesbian group ran several years ago, but nothing recently apart from a few local Pride events for local ladies and their allies to take part in.
The "This is Me" group that used to meet up in Weymouth recently moved to Dorchester.
Our Weymouth Gay Group has been inclusive and welcomed the full range of LGBT+ people to our twice weekly pub meetups over our 15 years. During that time we have had several requests every year asking if there are any social events exclusively for women and LGBTQ+ allies and friends.
So we were thrilled to see a post on Facebook by Omi with support from her friend Kazza, that they are starting one!
Here is a copy of their facebook post:-
Tuesday 21st November
At Dry Dock 6-7 St Thomas St, Weymouth DT4 8EW 7pm (opposite Post Office)
Join us for an informal meet up for lesbian, bisexual and queer women and non-binary people. Several people have asked recently if there's a space for queer women to get together in Weymouth, so we're arranging drinks at The Dry Dock on Tuesday 21st November, 7pm.
All LGBTQ+ women and nb folks welcome!* We'd like to arrange more like this in the future and would love to meet others interested in supporting local get - togethers. Hope to see you there!
*explicitly trans inclusive More info - www.facebook.com/events/241262852267417/
Note - for details of over 30 / 35 Local Dorset LGBT+ community events every month please check out our website LGBT Community Events Diary page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
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LGBTQ+ Women and NB Meetups
(posted here 02/11/2023)
Weymouth has lacked an exclusive safe and supportive place for LGBTQ+ Women to meet up informally for some time.
In the past there have been local LGBT+ coffee shop meetups, and we believe a Lesbian group ran several years ago, but nothing recently apart from a few local Pride events for local ladies and their allies to take part in.
The "This is Me" group that used to meet up in Weymouth recently moved to Dorchester.
Our Weymouth Gay Group has been inclusive and welcomed the full range of LGBT+ people to our twice weekly pub meetups over our 15 years. During that time we have had several requests every year asking if there are any social events exclusively for women and LGBTQ+ allies and friends.
So we were thrilled to see a post on Facebook by Omi with support from her friend Kazza, that they are starting one!
Here is a copy of their facebook post:-
Tuesday 21st November
At Dry Dock 6-7 St Thomas St, Weymouth DT4 8EW 7pm (opposite Post Office)
Join us for an informal meet up for lesbian, bisexual and queer women and non-binary people. Several people have asked recently if there's a space for queer women to get together in Weymouth, so we're arranging drinks at The Dry Dock on Tuesday 21st November, 7pm.
All LGBTQ+ women and nb folks welcome!* We'd like to arrange more like this in the future and would love to meet others interested in supporting local get - togethers. Hope to see you there!
*explicitly trans inclusive More info - www.facebook.com/events/241262852267417/
Note - for details of over 30 / 35 Local Dorset LGBT+ community events every month please check out our website LGBT Community Events Diary page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
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Space gets top marks! - from young LGBT+ people (posted here 02/11/2023)
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Dorset's Space LGBT+ Youth Project (SYP) scored top of the class in a recent poll.
When surveyed recently by its young service users, they gave the youth organisation almost 100% for the support and services that they offer LGBT+ youth. So if you are a young LGBT+ person in Dorset, this is clearly the place to be! SYP run LGBT+ groups in many Dorset towns & online. |
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This is a huge accolade for Dorset and the support for our younger generation of LGBT+ people. Many of us older guys wished we had this kind of support back in our day, our lives may well have been so much better if we had!
More details from the Space Youth Project office -
Tel 01202 205279
email [email protected]
website www.spaceyouthproject.co.uk
More details from the Space Youth Project office -
Tel 01202 205279
email [email protected]
website www.spaceyouthproject.co.uk
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LGBTQ+ asylum seekers to be moved to Portlands Barge
(posted here 25/10/2023 updated with photo of Echo 26/10/2023)
Extract from Pink News (25/10/2023).
You can read the full story here - www.thepinknews.com/2023/10/25/bibby-stockholm-barge-lgbtq-home-office/
(posted here 25/10/2023 updated with photo of Echo 26/10/2023)
Extract from Pink News (25/10/2023).
You can read the full story here - www.thepinknews.com/2023/10/25/bibby-stockholm-barge-lgbtq-home-office/
LGBTQ+ asylum seekers to be moved to Bibby Stockholm ‘floating prison’
A number of LGBTQ+ people seeking asylum in the UK are among those set to be moved to the Bibby Stockholm barge in Dorset, a charity has said.
The Home Office began moving asylum seekers back onto the barge on Thursday (19 October) after it was evacuated in September due to a discovery of legionella bacteria in the water supply.
** Thanks to Micro Rainbow for use of above photo. **
Rainbow Migration, a charity that works with LGBTQ+ people seeking asylum in the UK, has said it is aware of a number of service-users who have received letters telling them they will be moved to the barge.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the charity described the controversial barge as a “floating prison”, and said moving LGBTQ+ people to the Bibby Stockholm could futher traumatise those who have fled “unimaginable dangers and life-threatening situations”. “Some of the LGBTQI+ people seeking asylum that we support have already started receiving letters confirming their move in the coming days, which is extremely concerning,” a spokesperson for Rainbow Migration told PinkNews.
“We know that LGBTQI+ people seeking asylum are particularly at risk of harm and can face serious issues when forced to live in overcrowded conditions. “People will have limited access to support and they will also not be free to move around the port, so conditions on the barge are very similar to being in prison.”
They added: “In detention, LGBTQI+ people are likely to experience discrimination and harassment from other people who can hold LGBTQI-phobic views. Trans and intersex people can be at even greater risk of abuse and may be forced to hide their gender identity and/or sexual orientation.
“The people that we work with are worried about being moved to the barge, and are clearly experiencing anxiety about this possibility and the impact this will have on them. “We ask that this government commits to housing LGBTQI+ people in suitable accommodation in the community and safeguard from harm while they seek to rebuild their lives in safety here.”
Above is an extract from Pink News (25/102023).
You can read the full story here - www.thepinknews.com/2023/10/25/bibby-stockholm-barge-lgbtq-home-office/
Dorset Echo have also covered our news story, see below - with quotes from Rainbow Migration and us, Weymouth Gay Group. We made page two! With thanks to reporter Tom Lawrence.
See - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23878935.lgbtqi-asylum-seekers-due-moved-onto-portland-barge/
A number of LGBTQ+ people seeking asylum in the UK are among those set to be moved to the Bibby Stockholm barge in Dorset, a charity has said.
The Home Office began moving asylum seekers back onto the barge on Thursday (19 October) after it was evacuated in September due to a discovery of legionella bacteria in the water supply.
** Thanks to Micro Rainbow for use of above photo. **
Rainbow Migration, a charity that works with LGBTQ+ people seeking asylum in the UK, has said it is aware of a number of service-users who have received letters telling them they will be moved to the barge.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the charity described the controversial barge as a “floating prison”, and said moving LGBTQ+ people to the Bibby Stockholm could futher traumatise those who have fled “unimaginable dangers and life-threatening situations”. “Some of the LGBTQI+ people seeking asylum that we support have already started receiving letters confirming their move in the coming days, which is extremely concerning,” a spokesperson for Rainbow Migration told PinkNews.
“We know that LGBTQI+ people seeking asylum are particularly at risk of harm and can face serious issues when forced to live in overcrowded conditions. “People will have limited access to support and they will also not be free to move around the port, so conditions on the barge are very similar to being in prison.”
They added: “In detention, LGBTQI+ people are likely to experience discrimination and harassment from other people who can hold LGBTQI-phobic views. Trans and intersex people can be at even greater risk of abuse and may be forced to hide their gender identity and/or sexual orientation.
“The people that we work with are worried about being moved to the barge, and are clearly experiencing anxiety about this possibility and the impact this will have on them. “We ask that this government commits to housing LGBTQI+ people in suitable accommodation in the community and safeguard from harm while they seek to rebuild their lives in safety here.”
Above is an extract from Pink News (25/102023).
You can read the full story here - www.thepinknews.com/2023/10/25/bibby-stockholm-barge-lgbtq-home-office/
Dorset Echo have also covered our news story, see below - with quotes from Rainbow Migration and us, Weymouth Gay Group. We made page two! With thanks to reporter Tom Lawrence.
See - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23878935.lgbtqi-asylum-seekers-due-moved-onto-portland-barge/
Comment from Weymouth Gay Group: -
(first posted on our website 27/07/2023)
We are aware this has become a very emotive issue both locally and nationally. We would highlight that to flee your native country where you can not be accepted for being who you are (and endure abuse), that must be horrendous. Then being threatened on arriving in a "safer country" to be sent to Rwanda (where being LGBT is unsafe) is just so outrageous and so inhuman.
On top of that, to be housed in prison like accommodation for months while the slow Home Office goes though your application just adds to the anxiety.
Many of us would welcome a world with much more kindness, understanding, acceptance, and support for our worldwide LGBT+ community. It's a shame that some people in the UK feel unable to wear the shoes of these people, and walk not a mile in them, but many to fully understand where they have come from and the issues that they and their families face. (Yes, LGBT+ people DO have families!)
Weymouth Gay Group, while non political, welcomes respectful open discussion around our tables at our pub meetups.
Bibby Stockholm LGBT+ residents are most welcomed to join us too!
Quote:- "All those who leave their country of origin to seek safety and protection elsewhere are entitled to the full respect of their human rights and dignity, regardless of their legal status, mode of arrival or any other distinction". UNHCR
Links & further reading:-
Pink News - LGBTQ+ asylum seekers to be moved to Bibby Stockholm "floating prision" (25/10/2023)
www.thepinknews.com/2023/10/25/bibby-stockholm-barge-lgbtq-home-office
Pink News - UK government confirms it thinks asylum seekers who refused barge should ‘f**k off back to France’ https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/08/08/lee-anderson-barge/
Refugees - Know The Facts (Dorset Eye 19/03/2023) essential reading before commenting on this subject
https://dorseteye.com/refugees-know-the-facts/ (highly recommended)
Pink News - 'Inhumane’ migration bill putting LGBTQ+ people at risk as asylum claims soar (12/09/2023)
https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/09/12/lgbtq-asylum-seekers-rainbow-migration-illegal-act/
Statement by Micro Rainbow and Rainbow Migration https://microrainbow.org/joint-response-to-bibby-stockholm-proposal/
Rainbow Migration
website - https://www.rainbowmigration.org.uk/
twitter - https://twitter.com/rainbowmigrants
Micro Rainbow
website - https://microrainbow.org/
twitter - https://twitter.com/MicroRainbow
Dorset Race Equality Council
website - https://www.dorsetrec.org.uk/
twitter https://twitter.com/DorsetREC
Helplines / support LGBT+ asylum and immigration info see our helplines / support page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
** Thanks to Micro Rainbow for use of above photo. **
Scroll down for more about the Bibby Barge with our posts of 06/07/2023 and 27/07/2023
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(first posted on our website 27/07/2023)
We are aware this has become a very emotive issue both locally and nationally. We would highlight that to flee your native country where you can not be accepted for being who you are (and endure abuse), that must be horrendous. Then being threatened on arriving in a "safer country" to be sent to Rwanda (where being LGBT is unsafe) is just so outrageous and so inhuman.
On top of that, to be housed in prison like accommodation for months while the slow Home Office goes though your application just adds to the anxiety.
Many of us would welcome a world with much more kindness, understanding, acceptance, and support for our worldwide LGBT+ community. It's a shame that some people in the UK feel unable to wear the shoes of these people, and walk not a mile in them, but many to fully understand where they have come from and the issues that they and their families face. (Yes, LGBT+ people DO have families!)
Weymouth Gay Group, while non political, welcomes respectful open discussion around our tables at our pub meetups.
Bibby Stockholm LGBT+ residents are most welcomed to join us too!
Quote:- "All those who leave their country of origin to seek safety and protection elsewhere are entitled to the full respect of their human rights and dignity, regardless of their legal status, mode of arrival or any other distinction". UNHCR
Links & further reading:-
Pink News - LGBTQ+ asylum seekers to be moved to Bibby Stockholm "floating prision" (25/10/2023)
www.thepinknews.com/2023/10/25/bibby-stockholm-barge-lgbtq-home-office
Pink News - UK government confirms it thinks asylum seekers who refused barge should ‘f**k off back to France’ https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/08/08/lee-anderson-barge/
Refugees - Know The Facts (Dorset Eye 19/03/2023) essential reading before commenting on this subject
https://dorseteye.com/refugees-know-the-facts/ (highly recommended)
Pink News - 'Inhumane’ migration bill putting LGBTQ+ people at risk as asylum claims soar (12/09/2023)
https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/09/12/lgbtq-asylum-seekers-rainbow-migration-illegal-act/
Statement by Micro Rainbow and Rainbow Migration https://microrainbow.org/joint-response-to-bibby-stockholm-proposal/
Rainbow Migration
website - https://www.rainbowmigration.org.uk/
twitter - https://twitter.com/rainbowmigrants
Micro Rainbow
website - https://microrainbow.org/
twitter - https://twitter.com/MicroRainbow
Dorset Race Equality Council
website - https://www.dorsetrec.org.uk/
twitter https://twitter.com/DorsetREC
Helplines / support LGBT+ asylum and immigration info see our helplines / support page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
** Thanks to Micro Rainbow for use of above photo. **
Scroll down for more about the Bibby Barge with our posts of 06/07/2023 and 27/07/2023
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Heartstopper filming in Lyme Regis (posted here 25/10/2023)
Much excitement was created when top LGBT programme - Heartstopper started filming in early October in Lyme Regis.
The Love Lyme Regis website reported - with video and lots of photos:-
Kit Connor was spotted in Lyme Regis today alongside co-star Joe Locke, filming scenes for series 3 of Heartstopper on Netflix. The sandy beach was a hive of activity as filming took place for the LGBTQ+ drama about teen friendship and young romance based on the novel by Alice Oseman. Fellow stars Corrina Brown William Gao, Isaac Henderson and Rhea Norwood were also seen on the beach. The show which has already enjoyed two hugely successful seasons, also stars Stephen Fry and Olivia Colman.
While Dorset Live had more information (and photos) saying:-
Based on Alice Oseman’s successful LGBTQ+ graphic novels of the same name, the series follows the story of gay schoolboy Charlie Spring who falls in love with classmate Nick Nelson whom he sits next to. The series has received critical acclaim, particularly for its tone, pacing and portrayal of LGBT people.
Links:-
Love Lyme Regis https://lovelymeregis.co.uk/kitconnorheartstopper
Dorset Live https://www.dorset.live/whats-on/whats-on-news/heartstopper-series-3-filming-where-8800112
Scroll down to see our story of 24/07/2023:- "Dorset school presented LGBT award by Heartstopper stars"
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Much excitement was created when top LGBT programme - Heartstopper started filming in early October in Lyme Regis.
The Love Lyme Regis website reported - with video and lots of photos:-
Kit Connor was spotted in Lyme Regis today alongside co-star Joe Locke, filming scenes for series 3 of Heartstopper on Netflix. The sandy beach was a hive of activity as filming took place for the LGBTQ+ drama about teen friendship and young romance based on the novel by Alice Oseman. Fellow stars Corrina Brown William Gao, Isaac Henderson and Rhea Norwood were also seen on the beach. The show which has already enjoyed two hugely successful seasons, also stars Stephen Fry and Olivia Colman.
While Dorset Live had more information (and photos) saying:-
Based on Alice Oseman’s successful LGBTQ+ graphic novels of the same name, the series follows the story of gay schoolboy Charlie Spring who falls in love with classmate Nick Nelson whom he sits next to. The series has received critical acclaim, particularly for its tone, pacing and portrayal of LGBT people.
Links:-
Love Lyme Regis https://lovelymeregis.co.uk/kitconnorheartstopper
Dorset Live https://www.dorset.live/whats-on/whats-on-news/heartstopper-series-3-filming-where-8800112
Scroll down to see our story of 24/07/2023:- "Dorset school presented LGBT award by Heartstopper stars"
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Weymouth Trans Stone re named!
(posted here 23/10/2023)
(posted here 23/10/2023)
A transgender friend of Weymouth Gay Group recently found a stone with a negative massage on it.
Our friend Charity said on X (aka twitter): -
“Just found this on a windowsill in Weymouth town center, looks like the bigots are getting arty with their hate.”
Our friend Charity said on X (aka twitter): -
“Just found this on a windowsill in Weymouth town center, looks like the bigots are getting arty with their hate.”
She added: - “Going to take it home make the edits needed then release it to the wild, as it should be”.
She explained - "The decorated rocks that are left around has been a fun activity for families all across the UK, they find a decorated rock take its picture, then add to one of the many "Rocks" groups on facebook, then they move it to a new location for others to find.
It's been something our young people in the youth group had taken part in themselves, getting great enjoyment watching the tale of their own rocks travels across the country.
I find it very sad that a simple fun thing that people do had been tainted by someone's hate, I wish the edited rock safe travels and hope it brings joy to its future finders.
Well done Charity - truning a negaitive into a positive. Bravo we say!
She explained - "The decorated rocks that are left around has been a fun activity for families all across the UK, they find a decorated rock take its picture, then add to one of the many "Rocks" groups on facebook, then they move it to a new location for others to find.
It's been something our young people in the youth group had taken part in themselves, getting great enjoyment watching the tale of their own rocks travels across the country.
I find it very sad that a simple fun thing that people do had been tainted by someone's hate, I wish the edited rock safe travels and hope it brings joy to its future finders.
Well done Charity - truning a negaitive into a positive. Bravo we say!
Also on X (aka Twitter) Dr Ron Holt @DrRonHolt . Posted a stone photo saying "You Matter". He said: -
"For those LGBTQ people who have been rejected by family, please know you are worthy of unconditional love and acceptance."
Just think - A beach full of these stones could form a mountain of support for our Transgender and Non Binary friends!
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On a lighter Autumnal note .... and how are you coping? (posted here 19/10/2023)
Only in Weymouth!
Will miss smiling at The Jubilee C?ock on our walk into town now that the boats have gone for their winter rest.
So much negative news around at the moment. If you are finding it difficult to cope this might be helpful ... https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/coping-with-distressing-events-in-the-news/
Will miss smiling at The Jubilee C?ock on our walk into town now that the boats have gone for their winter rest.
So much negative news around at the moment. If you are finding it difficult to cope this might be helpful ... https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/coping-with-distressing-events-in-the-news/
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National Hate Crime Awareness Week Poem (posted here 15/10/2023)
14th - 21st October 2023 Organised by 17-24-30 National HCAW Info see - https://nationalhcaw.uk/
We love this below ....
See also - X (aka twitter) Huge thanks to LGBT Poet Laureat @lgbtpoetlaureat
14th - 21st October 2023 Organised by 17-24-30 National HCAW Info see - https://nationalhcaw.uk/
We love this below ....
See also - X (aka twitter) Huge thanks to LGBT Poet Laureat @lgbtpoetlaureat
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Bournemouth Trans activists gather near Flirt cafe at the Triangle (posted here 15/10/2023)
Extract from Bournemouth Echo. You can read the full story here - https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/23856684.bournemouth-trans-activists-gather-near-flirt-cafe-triangle/
Extract from Bournemouth Echo. You can read the full story here - https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/23856684.bournemouth-trans-activists-gather-near-flirt-cafe-triangle/
SOME 100 people rallied at Bournemouth Triangle today in a powerful show of support for the Transgender and non-binary community. Trans rights are human rights, according to the organisers of the event outside Flirt cafe this afternoon. Activists gathered draped in flags and brandishing placards saying 'Trans lives matters'.
Organiser, Melissa Armstrong was overjoyed at the turnout, she said: “I’m so pleased with everyone that came down and showed support. “I think the people that are here today that are with us know about these issues. So, it's important that we speak about our allyship today and that we get our message across.
“With all the stories that we're hearing in the media now, demonizing trans people, we just really wanted to come out today and show our solidarity with the community, to show them that they have allies and people that will speak for them. “We've got friends and partners and family who are trans nonbinary, and we see how scared they are. We see how unsafe they feel. “Now is the time to be an ally.”
Neal Errington, another member of the Trans community and a trustee at Bourne Free also attended, he said: It's been a really great turnout. "Absolutely warm, free, wholehearted people support these events to echo every phrase that's been used. “Trans rights are human rights. “It's in our DNA for what we do at Pride.
Earlier in October, PM Rishi Sunak faced backlash for a speech perceived as giving the ‘green light’ for attacks on transgender people.
You can read the full story here - https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/23856684.bournemouth-trans-activists-gather-near-flirt-cafe-triangle/
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Organiser, Melissa Armstrong was overjoyed at the turnout, she said: “I’m so pleased with everyone that came down and showed support. “I think the people that are here today that are with us know about these issues. So, it's important that we speak about our allyship today and that we get our message across.
“With all the stories that we're hearing in the media now, demonizing trans people, we just really wanted to come out today and show our solidarity with the community, to show them that they have allies and people that will speak for them. “We've got friends and partners and family who are trans nonbinary, and we see how scared they are. We see how unsafe they feel. “Now is the time to be an ally.”
Neal Errington, another member of the Trans community and a trustee at Bourne Free also attended, he said: It's been a really great turnout. "Absolutely warm, free, wholehearted people support these events to echo every phrase that's been used. “Trans rights are human rights. “It's in our DNA for what we do at Pride.
Earlier in October, PM Rishi Sunak faced backlash for a speech perceived as giving the ‘green light’ for attacks on transgender people.
You can read the full story here - https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/23856684.bournemouth-trans-activists-gather-near-flirt-cafe-triangle/
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Dorset same-sex couple facing "gay tax" starting family
(posted here 14/10/2023)
Extracts from BBC News Dorset. You can read the full story here:- www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-66927609
By Lauren Moss and Josh Parry, LGBT correspondent and producer
Same-sex couples are still having to pay thousands of pounds before they can access NHS fertility treatment, BBC News has found.
In England, the NHS will fund in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) for heterosexual couples who have been trying for a baby unsuccessfully for at least two years and meet certain other criteria such as age and weight. But same-sex couples are often expected to demonstrate their infertility before the NHS will fund IVF - and to do so must pay privately for between three and 12 rounds of artificial insemination.
Shauna Mansbridge, 30, has always wanted to have a baby. But when she and her partner, Faye Hawkins, went to see their GP, in Dorset, they were told they would only qualify for IVF on the NHS if they had already self-funded 12 unsuccessful cycles of artificial insemination.
The cost varies but Shauna and Faye, 33, discovered it would cost them at least £30,000 for 12 rounds of intrauterine insemination (IUI).
"It's the one time in my life I've felt discriminated against," Faye says, "and I didn't think it would be by the NHS."
The couple have now spent their life savings - £22,000, what might have been a deposit on a house or paid for a wedding - in pursuit of their dream of starting a family.
"We had to make a lot of sacrifices," Shauna says, "but this is our only route to motherhood."
They have undergone two IVF cycles and the process is taking its toll on them.
"There's all these stages [of treatment] - and you get to one stage and you're disappointed, you get to another stage, you're a little bit more disappointed, and you just don't have control over the outcomes," Shauna says. "It's tough on both of us."
Contacted about Faye and Shauna's case, NHS Dorset told BBC News it would consider couples who had had six rounds of IUI. But BBC News has seen a letter from the NHS that incorrectly states Faye and Shauna would need 12.
You can read the full story here:- www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-66927609
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(posted here 14/10/2023)
Extracts from BBC News Dorset. You can read the full story here:- www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-66927609
By Lauren Moss and Josh Parry, LGBT correspondent and producer
Same-sex couples are still having to pay thousands of pounds before they can access NHS fertility treatment, BBC News has found.
In England, the NHS will fund in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) for heterosexual couples who have been trying for a baby unsuccessfully for at least two years and meet certain other criteria such as age and weight. But same-sex couples are often expected to demonstrate their infertility before the NHS will fund IVF - and to do so must pay privately for between three and 12 rounds of artificial insemination.
Shauna Mansbridge, 30, has always wanted to have a baby. But when she and her partner, Faye Hawkins, went to see their GP, in Dorset, they were told they would only qualify for IVF on the NHS if they had already self-funded 12 unsuccessful cycles of artificial insemination.
The cost varies but Shauna and Faye, 33, discovered it would cost them at least £30,000 for 12 rounds of intrauterine insemination (IUI).
"It's the one time in my life I've felt discriminated against," Faye says, "and I didn't think it would be by the NHS."
The couple have now spent their life savings - £22,000, what might have been a deposit on a house or paid for a wedding - in pursuit of their dream of starting a family.
"We had to make a lot of sacrifices," Shauna says, "but this is our only route to motherhood."
They have undergone two IVF cycles and the process is taking its toll on them.
"There's all these stages [of treatment] - and you get to one stage and you're disappointed, you get to another stage, you're a little bit more disappointed, and you just don't have control over the outcomes," Shauna says. "It's tough on both of us."
Contacted about Faye and Shauna's case, NHS Dorset told BBC News it would consider couples who had had six rounds of IUI. But BBC News has seen a letter from the NHS that incorrectly states Faye and Shauna would need 12.
You can read the full story here:- www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-66927609
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New Dorset Online Group for LGBT+ Young people
(posted here 12/10/2023) Dorset's Space Youth Project have recently launched a new group for young LGBT+ people - online. The group which meets up via Zoom is monthly and also free. On The Space Youth Project website they say - "This is a young person lead group meaning you and your peers will be deciding the activities and topics of each session with guidance from the Youth Worker in Charge - Charity." More details from the Space Youth Project office - Tel 01202 205279 email [email protected] website www.spaceyouthproject.co.uk We (WGG) feel this is a brilliant idea, not just for those young people who may feel isolated (e.g. in rural Dorset), but also for those not out and trying to find their way in the LGBT+ world for the first time. |
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Seeking LGBT+ families - Maternity & Neonatal insight
(posted here 12/10/2023)
A recent email to Weymouth Gay Group from Dorset NHS has appealed for LGBT+ families to get in touch.
Rachel Filmer, Dorset Maternity & Neonatal Voices Lead Representative is reaching out to our Dorset LGBT+ community
She said - "We are local parents who represent local families within the local service. Our role is to listen, to inform ourselves on the issues local families face and ensure their needs are being met as the service develops and improves. In order to do this, we must ensure that we hear from families who are representative of our local community."
She added- "As the lead for Dorset MNVP, I have ongoing concerns that we simply don’t hear enough from our local LGBTQ+ families. When we do receive feedback, it often raises very different issues and needs compared our cisgender / heterosexual families. For example, feedback around reciprocal IVF, surrogacy, experiences that are unique for same sex or transgender parents, and so on. I am acutely aware that there are likely some issues that need to be addressed, but I need to ensure I have the evidence of these in order to address them."
For more info, including their surveys: -
email - [email protected]
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DorsetMaternityVoices
(posted here 12/10/2023)
A recent email to Weymouth Gay Group from Dorset NHS has appealed for LGBT+ families to get in touch.
Rachel Filmer, Dorset Maternity & Neonatal Voices Lead Representative is reaching out to our Dorset LGBT+ community
She said - "We are local parents who represent local families within the local service. Our role is to listen, to inform ourselves on the issues local families face and ensure their needs are being met as the service develops and improves. In order to do this, we must ensure that we hear from families who are representative of our local community."
She added- "As the lead for Dorset MNVP, I have ongoing concerns that we simply don’t hear enough from our local LGBTQ+ families. When we do receive feedback, it often raises very different issues and needs compared our cisgender / heterosexual families. For example, feedback around reciprocal IVF, surrogacy, experiences that are unique for same sex or transgender parents, and so on. I am acutely aware that there are likely some issues that need to be addressed, but I need to ensure I have the evidence of these in order to address them."
For more info, including their surveys: -
email - [email protected]
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DorsetMaternityVoices
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Dorsets LGBT+ Forum asks for people to "step up" (posted here 12/10/2023)
In a recent email to members the Dorset LGBT+ Voices Forum asked for members to "Step up" and take an active role.
The Forum has been running for 3 years, and recently established a website. It brings together Dorsets LGBT+ groups and individuals and gives a voice to our community with a range of local statutory organisations members too.
On X (formerly twitter) they describe themselves as - "Providing a space, which is explicitly and unequivocally inclusive of all sexual, romantic and gender identities, across Dorset. raising voices of LGBT+ people" They are also on Facebook.
Their next online social is :- November 21st at 12 noon, and you are invited to "step up" and join in!
More info about the Forum here -
website https://www.lgbtvoicesdorsetforum.org.uk/
email [email protected]
X (aka twitter) https://twitter.com/DorsetLGBTVoice
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/153656431329039/user/100083192837452
Note:- Weymouth Gay Group have been looking for a volunteer from our group to represent us on the forum. If you regularly attend our pub meetups, and would like to "step up" and fill this role, please let us know!
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Dorchester Arts The Script's The Thing
Dorset Festival of Script Writing (posted here 09/10/2023 updated 14/10/2023) |
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Many of you will know Paul Lawless through his visits to our Weymouth Gay Group, and his on stage performances. Here is an opportunity to see him in action! Paul who describes himself on X (formerly twitter) as - Actor/Singer/Theatre Maker/Arts Producer | Trans Ally | 1/3 of @BraveBoldDrama Dorset Born & Bred (He/Him) Resident at @PMStudioUK & @WeymouthCollege He also said:- "I will also be performing a script-in-hand extract of @DreamsofLuxor 's new play 'That Was Him and This is Me' for @ScriptsTheThing at Tom Brown's Pub at 2.15pm, a piece which explores memory, identity and new beginnings." He added - There's a few queer pieces in the line-up for the festival it seems - check these two below : |
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Sex Litter by Michael Sells
The piece is inspired by certain spots in Bournemouth and Sussex. It is loosely based on real-life events that
took place in Bournemouth/Brighton. Two sex workers were terrorising the local gay cruising community. The
play explores male sexuality and the power dynamics between the lover and the loved.
Drama – Real-life – Thriller Time: 5pm | Venue: Green Room.
and Henry, Dearest! By Gary Dooley
You can access the PDF programme here.
More info - https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/2023/08/07/sat-28-october-the-scripts-the-thing-dorset-festival-of-scriptwriting/
And - https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/the-scripts-the-thing/
NOTE - Sunday 22nd October Dorchester Arts - MICHELANGELO Dorchester Arts Exhibition On Screen - Masters Michelangelo: Love & Death.
See our Dorset LGBT Community Events Diary page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
Scroll down a long way on your PC / laptop for info!
The piece is inspired by certain spots in Bournemouth and Sussex. It is loosely based on real-life events that
took place in Bournemouth/Brighton. Two sex workers were terrorising the local gay cruising community. The
play explores male sexuality and the power dynamics between the lover and the loved.
Drama – Real-life – Thriller Time: 5pm | Venue: Green Room.
and Henry, Dearest! By Gary Dooley
You can access the PDF programme here.
More info - https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/2023/08/07/sat-28-october-the-scripts-the-thing-dorset-festival-of-scriptwriting/
And - https://www.dorchesterarts.org.uk/the-scripts-the-thing/
NOTE - Sunday 22nd October Dorchester Arts - MICHELANGELO Dorchester Arts Exhibition On Screen - Masters Michelangelo: Love & Death.
See our Dorset LGBT Community Events Diary page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
Scroll down a long way on your PC / laptop for info!
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New support for the LGBT+ Travellers community (posted here 25/09/2023)
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Dorset has long been known for hosting the travelling community, with events like the Dorset Steam fair attracting thousands. Recently, Travellers Pride have added a new service for their community - a weekly helpline. On their website they say: - "We are group made up of Travellers (used as inclusively as possible) who are LGBT+ (likewise) who want to provide a platform for our intersectional community. We act as a network that can provide guidance, support and information to make life easier for LGBT+ Travellers as well as providing essential services, meetup spaces and collaborating with other organisations to make them more welcoming to us." Their Phoneline is available and taking calls on Mondays (excluding bank holidays) from 5:00pm-8:00pm. |
They also say: -
"This is a confidential service where LGBT+ Travellers can get in touch with a trained member of the Traveller Pride team who is also a mental health professional."
They can offer a listening ear and can also help out with some practical elements. You can call:
Note from Weymouth Gay Group:- We have welcomed guests to our pub meet ups from the traveling community in the past. and it would be lovely to see you if you are in our area. We have added deatils of this helpline to our Weymouth Gay Group website helplines page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
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"This is a confidential service where LGBT+ Travellers can get in touch with a trained member of the Traveller Pride team who is also a mental health professional."
They can offer a listening ear and can also help out with some practical elements. You can call:
- To share your story
- To get recommendations on services near you
- To get help with education issues (applications, appeals etc.)
- To report a hate crime
- To get advice
Note from Weymouth Gay Group:- We have welcomed guests to our pub meet ups from the traveling community in the past. and it would be lovely to see you if you are in our area. We have added deatils of this helpline to our Weymouth Gay Group website helplines page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
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RuPaul Drag Race - Vicki Vivacious at Closet Bar (posted here 21/09/2023)
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Lovers of the RuPaul Drag Race are in for a treat when Vicki Vivacious performs at Weymouth's Gay bar - The Closet Bar. Taking place on Saturday 30th September, the Closet Bar said on social media:- "We are excited to announce that we have our next RuPaul Drag race UK drag queen taking to the Closet stage. Fresh from season 5 runway we have the amazing Vicki Vivacious." Doors open at 8pm with amazing drag support acts kicking off the show. Meet and greet from 9pm. After party from 11pm with DJ Matty H Two tickets types available:- General admission - £7 Meet & Greet - £10 The Closet is at 38a Maiden St, Weymouth DT4 8BA Website - https://closetweymouth.co.uk/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/closetweymouth |
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Dorchesters Marvellous Mel in UNICEF School role! (posted here 16/09/2023 updated 18/09/2023)
Many of you may know Mel Lane a teacher and teacher trainer with her connections with Pop'n'Olly LGBT books, and Dorset’s Space Youth Project.
Another string to her bow that you may not be aware of is her role with UNICEF. She is now also a UNICEF schools assessor!
On her website she says:-
“After 23 years in the classroom and 20 years working in Teacher Training, I have been motivated to specialise in diversity and inclusion education."
"I work with young LGBT+ people who are happy to share their stories with students and teachers. The team has worked with over 8000 students in over 70 schools across Dorset”
She added "I've been a Silver Assessor for about four years now. I started after I took my school to Gold and felt so passionate about children's rights.
It has changed in that before covid I went into schools and assessed them in person, now it's all online so I might be talking to school staff, governors, parents and children in Cornwall, London or Scotland. It's a great job!"
We asked Mel, from Dorchester, what is a Unicef Rights Respecting School?
Another string to her bow that you may not be aware of is her role with UNICEF. She is now also a UNICEF schools assessor!
On her website she says:-
“After 23 years in the classroom and 20 years working in Teacher Training, I have been motivated to specialise in diversity and inclusion education."
"I work with young LGBT+ people who are happy to share their stories with students and teachers. The team has worked with over 8000 students in over 70 schools across Dorset”
She added "I've been a Silver Assessor for about four years now. I started after I took my school to Gold and felt so passionate about children's rights.
It has changed in that before covid I went into schools and assessed them in person, now it's all online so I might be talking to school staff, governors, parents and children in Cornwall, London or Scotland. It's a great job!"
We asked Mel, from Dorchester, what is a Unicef Rights Respecting School?
Unicef Rights Respecting Schools. by Mel Lane.
Maybe you already know that every child on the planet has rights. Virtually all countries (not the USA) have signed up to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. There are 54 rights and four central principles:
Maybe you already know that every child on the planet has rights. Virtually all countries (not the USA) have signed up to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. There are 54 rights and four central principles:
- Non-discrimination – every child has rights without discrimination of any kind
- The best interests of the child – what is best for the child should come first when decisions are made about them
- Right to life and development – children should be helped to be the best they can be, including physically, mentally and socially.
- Right to be heard- children should be part of decision-making about them; they should be given ample opportunity to express their views and these should matter.
Schools can choose to make children’s rights integral to how the school is run - When I was a classroom teacher, I did this for my school, taking us to a Gold Award level. The positive impact of this was huge! Here’s a few examples:
- Children solve problems they see around them – for example, children designed a whole new way of running our canteen to streamline the process of providing lunch for everyone and children use restorative justice to solve conflict in the playground.
- Children talk to teachers about how best they learn and things they are interested in learning, which means they are more focussed on their work and feel ownership of what they are learning.
- Children become active citizens, expressing their views and having an impact on local and national/ international issues, such as what play equipment they’d like in the local park; the issues surrounding vehicle pollution outside school or problems for girls attending schools in highly deprived parts of the world.
When children are listened to and their opinions valued, their confidence rockets. They feel valued as individuals who can help solve the problems they encounter; they are engaged in learning and school activities and they know they are part of the world and can influence how it works. What a powerful thing for children to know: life doesn’t just happen to you – you can engage with it, make choices and have an impact.
All schools in Scotland and many schools in Wales and England are already (or are signed up to become) Rights Respecting Schools. I am now an assessor and work online talking to staff and students in schools around the country. It is always a pleasure to see the impact of putting children at the centre of their own lives and listening to what they have to say. It makes me genuinely optimistic about the world.
If you’d like to find out more check out https://www.unicef.org.uk/rights-respecting-schools/
All schools in Scotland and many schools in Wales and England are already (or are signed up to become) Rights Respecting Schools. I am now an assessor and work online talking to staff and students in schools around the country. It is always a pleasure to see the impact of putting children at the centre of their own lives and listening to what they have to say. It makes me genuinely optimistic about the world.
If you’d like to find out more check out https://www.unicef.org.uk/rights-respecting-schools/
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If you wish to see more about Mel's marvelous work, check out her website listed below. If you have young people in your family, why not invite her into their school! CV / Contact info for Mel - Mel Lane (she/her) Head of Education - Pop'n'Olly Education and Training Lead - Space Youth Project Professional Development Lead / Teacher Trainer Rights Respecting Schools Assessor - Unicef Diversity_Mel on instagram Website: DiversityMel.com |
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Note from Weymouth Gay Group :- Many of us older folk so wish we had a teacher like Mel back in our school days! For many of us it would have changed our lives for the better (remember section 28?) and as Mel says "It makes me genuinely optimistic about the world". Here here, and carry on all your good work Mel!
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Homophobic abuse at McDonalds Weymouth (posted here 29/08/2023)
Dorset Echo report 29/08/2023 See - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23753820.arrest-mcdonalds-staff-threatened-weymouth-branch/
Arrest after McDonalds staff 'threatened' at Weymouth branch
A man shouted abuse at McDonalds staff and refused to leave the restaurant when asked, it is alleged. Police were called to the Jubilee Retail Park restaurant in Weymouth after receiving reports an aggressive man was refusing to leave.
It is reported that the man was verbally abusive to staff members and made threats toward them, as well as shouting homophobic abuse. The suspect is described as white, aged in his mid 20s, 6ft tall and of slim build with short, dark hair.
The incident took place at 2.25am on Thursday, August 24, and police are now appeaking for witnesses to come forward.
Police Constable Michael Golder, of Weymouth police, said: “Dorset Police does not tolerate hate crime and we will do all we can to identify the person responsible. “I am appealing to anyone who was in the area of McDonald’s around the relevant time and recognises the man from the description given to please get in touch.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting number 55230133779. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.
For help and advice reporting Hate Crime in Dorset, see our helplines page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
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Dorset Echo report 29/08/2023 See - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23753820.arrest-mcdonalds-staff-threatened-weymouth-branch/
Arrest after McDonalds staff 'threatened' at Weymouth branch
A man shouted abuse at McDonalds staff and refused to leave the restaurant when asked, it is alleged. Police were called to the Jubilee Retail Park restaurant in Weymouth after receiving reports an aggressive man was refusing to leave.
It is reported that the man was verbally abusive to staff members and made threats toward them, as well as shouting homophobic abuse. The suspect is described as white, aged in his mid 20s, 6ft tall and of slim build with short, dark hair.
The incident took place at 2.25am on Thursday, August 24, and police are now appeaking for witnesses to come forward.
Police Constable Michael Golder, of Weymouth police, said: “Dorset Police does not tolerate hate crime and we will do all we can to identify the person responsible. “I am appealing to anyone who was in the area of McDonald’s around the relevant time and recognises the man from the description given to please get in touch.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting number 55230133779. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.
For help and advice reporting Hate Crime in Dorset, see our helplines page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
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Laugh Out Proud Bridport Arts Centre Saturday 9th September (posted here 28/08/2023)
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Laugh Out Proud is London's brand new LGBTQIA+ comedy night. Featuring the best in established and upcoming acts from the community on the UK comedy circuit. Laugh Out Proud at Bridport Arts Centre will feature the stand-up-comedy delights of Andrew White, Russell Arthoon and Andrew O'Neill! This night is all about giving acts and audiences alike a fun and friendly place to express themselves, kick back, have a laugh and good time in an inclusive and welcoming comedy club environment. |
Whether it’s comedy, cabaret or anything in between – Laugh Out Proud is the queer night out you’re looking for.
Tickets & info - www.bridport-arts.com/event/laugh-out-proud-september/
Note : - Laugh Out Proud returns at Bridport Arts Centre on Saturday 9th December
Perhaps we need to hire a mini bus from Weymouth and go to this! - intersted?
email us [email protected]
NOTE - are you intersted in local Dorset LGBT community events? Check out our website page with often over 35 Dorset events like the one above! See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html May well be something you dont wish to miss!
Tickets & info - www.bridport-arts.com/event/laugh-out-proud-september/
Note : - Laugh Out Proud returns at Bridport Arts Centre on Saturday 9th December
Perhaps we need to hire a mini bus from Weymouth and go to this! - intersted?
email us [email protected]
NOTE - are you intersted in local Dorset LGBT community events? Check out our website page with often over 35 Dorset events like the one above! See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html May well be something you dont wish to miss!
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New PRIDE Childrens book - with Weymouth connections! (posted here 26/08/2023)
How did you feel about attending your first Pride event?
How did you feel about attending your first Pride event?
For most of us it was well beyond our childhood days when we made that step. However, for today’s younger generation, - and with two Youth Prides in Dorset - the opportunity to attend Pride both locally and around the UK has never been better.
So here is an age appropriate (3-12) beautifully illustrated guide. “The Love Parade” - Celebrating Pride in a fun and inspiring story all about a girl experiencing her first Pride.
We follow Poppy during the build-up and preparation for a colourful party-celebrating everyone for who they are - however they express themselves. Poppy is able to prepare for the parade by being ethical by using charity shops and making homemade decorations whilst also being mindful of others.
This book is not just about finding out what Pride is all about it also encourages children to think about what things they are proud about and also encourages children to think of others and be open and welcoming.
This book is age appropriate for young children, the language used throughout the book is simple and easy to understand and only subtly covers the scope of Pride.
So here is an age appropriate (3-12) beautifully illustrated guide. “The Love Parade” - Celebrating Pride in a fun and inspiring story all about a girl experiencing her first Pride.
We follow Poppy during the build-up and preparation for a colourful party-celebrating everyone for who they are - however they express themselves. Poppy is able to prepare for the parade by being ethical by using charity shops and making homemade decorations whilst also being mindful of others.
This book is not just about finding out what Pride is all about it also encourages children to think about what things they are proud about and also encourages children to think of others and be open and welcoming.
This book is age appropriate for young children, the language used throughout the book is simple and easy to understand and only subtly covers the scope of Pride.
Weymouth connections
The author Yasmine Case, who also illustrated the book, lives in Weymouth said “I created the book as I have several friends In the LGBT community and wanted to make something for them and to show my support in my own way. I went to my first Pride with my friend a few years ago.”
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“I am friends with Jonai (from Dorchester, photo left), I’m sure you know him. I believe he is a part of your group. I only mention him as he features in the book (on right) and he is a big reason for why I made the book.” She added “I have now published my sixth book and have illustrated them all. All my books have special meanings, from mental health, friendship and having pride in yourself and respecting others. |
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The book is available at Weymouth Post Office, St Thomas Street (well worth a visit as it has a super range of rainbow gifts), also in The Palm House (Weymouth). As well as available on Amazon, other online sites include both WHSmiths and Waterstones.
“The Love Parade” On Amazon – Link- https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0C1J7CSCH#
Note – some of you may remember years ago the Dorchester annual Pride event was called Dorchester Love Parade!
Jonai - for those who don't know - is originally from Brazil and is a NHS mental health support worker in Dorset.
We often refer to him as ... "The one man walking Rio Carnival" ! He attends our Weymouth Gay Group pub meetups when he can in between his busy work & social schedule, some times with his husband - Brian.
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Alan Turing: Stolen items returned to his Sherborne school after 40 years
(posted here 23/08/2023)
(posted here 23/08/2023)
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Extract from BBC report (22/08/2023):-
Items belonging to World War Two Bletchley Park codebreaker Alan Turing, that were stolen from the UK almost 40 years ago, have been returned from the US. The mathematician's miniature OBE medal is among 17 items that were taken from Sherborne School in Dorset by Julia Turing, who is no relation, in 1984. A US civil case launched against her was settled out of court in 2020. Digital copies of the items will be made available on the school's website. |
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Headmaster Dominic Luckett described Turing as one of the school's "most distinguished alumni".
"His crucial work as a cryptanalyst at Bletchley Park and his enormous contribution to the development of computing and artificial intelligence were not merely of vital practical significance at the time but continue to underpin many of today's most important intellectual and technological advances," he said.
You can read the full story here - www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-66570984
In a 2021 BBC report it says:- "The sculpture of the computer pioneer and wartime codebreaker now stands on a plinth in the grounds of Sherborne School in Sherborne, Dorset. It comes after local resident Kathryn Ballisat, inspired by Turing's story and connection to the town, commissioned the work. The bust also coincides with the new £50 note bearing his image which entered circulation this week."
For photos and more see - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-57623441
His genius helped the Allies win WWII, but he was not treated well at home. He was persecuted for being gay & chemically castrated. He tragically died in 1954 from cyanide poisoning. We remember his life & legacy.
What Alan Turing £50 notes mean to the LGBT community.
BBC 16/07/2019 www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-48994393
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"His crucial work as a cryptanalyst at Bletchley Park and his enormous contribution to the development of computing and artificial intelligence were not merely of vital practical significance at the time but continue to underpin many of today's most important intellectual and technological advances," he said.
You can read the full story here - www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-66570984
In a 2021 BBC report it says:- "The sculpture of the computer pioneer and wartime codebreaker now stands on a plinth in the grounds of Sherborne School in Sherborne, Dorset. It comes after local resident Kathryn Ballisat, inspired by Turing's story and connection to the town, commissioned the work. The bust also coincides with the new £50 note bearing his image which entered circulation this week."
For photos and more see - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-57623441
His genius helped the Allies win WWII, but he was not treated well at home. He was persecuted for being gay & chemically castrated. He tragically died in 1954 from cyanide poisoning. We remember his life & legacy.
What Alan Turing £50 notes mean to the LGBT community.
BBC 16/07/2019 www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-48994393
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New! Weymouth Pride 2024 (posted here 19/08/2023)
Weymouth is set to have a new Pride event in 2024 with a crafty twist!
Weymouth is set to have a new Pride event in 2024 with a crafty twist!
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The new Weymouth Pride - “Craft with Pride” is presently seeking interest and support. Taking place at Weymouth Rugby Club on Saturday 15th June 2024, the event will showcase a range of rainbow crafts (see poster) and will have a variety of other attractions too. Lynn, the organiser said “We are looking forward to welcoming everyone to Weymouth Pride 2024“ She added:- “At this stage we are looking for people interested in having a stall, and also sponsors”. Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) are very pleased to see another New Pride event in our area and wonder with the Pub Prides end of May (three in Dorset 2023), two Youth Prides (Dorchester & Weymouth 2023), and Bournemouth’s BourneFree, if we might be on course to break the 2023 record of SIX Dorset Pride events in a year. Let’s hope so! One of our WGG guys asked if they will have Craft Beers there? LOL! |
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Lynn gave us these contacts below for anyone wishing to know more about Weymouth's Craft with Pride
email address [email protected]
Phone number 07742141076
Facebook lynn walbridge
She said :- "We have also set up a facebook space and event have added links below"
https://fb.me/e/3SfjrCM1C
https://www.facebook.com/groups/828963008785749/?ref=share_group_link
If you like Pride events, why not volunteer to help out at one? They can't run with out lots of help and support from our community, and it can be loads of fun helping out too! Pride - a protest or celebration? What are your views?
Just one of many discussions around our table at Weymouth Gay Group pub meetups, join us to express your views.
Like Prides? have you seen our Pride pages? Almost everything you need to know about the SIX or more Dorset Prides!
See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html
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email address [email protected]
Phone number 07742141076
Facebook lynn walbridge
She said :- "We have also set up a facebook space and event have added links below"
https://fb.me/e/3SfjrCM1C
https://www.facebook.com/groups/828963008785749/?ref=share_group_link
If you like Pride events, why not volunteer to help out at one? They can't run with out lots of help and support from our community, and it can be loads of fun helping out too! Pride - a protest or celebration? What are your views?
Just one of many discussions around our table at Weymouth Gay Group pub meetups, join us to express your views.
Like Prides? have you seen our Pride pages? Almost everything you need to know about the SIX or more Dorset Prides!
See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html
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Spoons News features Weymouth Gay Group (posted here 31/07/2023)
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We are thrilled to now share with everyone that we have made the news - in The Wetherspoons News magazine! The Summer / Autumn edition is now available at over 800 of the Wetherspoons pubs across the UK, and thanks to the Management at The William Henry Weymouth we had a sneak preview! The article on page 97, along with a photo showing some of our guys, is part of our celebrations of meeting up for over 15 years in Weymouth Pubs. We love the comments by Kim Newstead, Manager of The Swan, our Thursday home - “We are always delighted to host WGG at The Swan. They are a great group of friendly folk, who enjoy friendship, fun and support together." “Our pub is an important aspect of the local Weymouth community, with WGG an integral part of the social scene.” Huge thanks to Kim and her staff in The Swan, also The William Henry staff, and Ashley at Spoons HQ for helping to make the story possible. Plus our guys in photo! The Magazine is available at all Wetherspoons pubs from early August, and online via the app. Oh, and of course at our twice weekly pub meetups! |
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Portland's Barge - LGBT+ Migration & Asylum groups condemn
(posted here 27/07/2023 updated 28/07/2023 updated 10/08/2023 updated links 16/08/2023)
(posted here 27/07/2023 updated 28/07/2023 updated 10/08/2023 updated links 16/08/2023)
In a joint statement posted on twitter (27/07/2023), by Micro Rainbow and Rainbow Migration, both groups firmly condemn the barbaric proposal to house people seeking asylum on Portlands Bibby Stockholm barge.
In their joint response, they ask the Home Office to commit to safeguarding LGBTQI people seeking asylum.
Below is an extract from their announcement. You can read the full announcement here:- https://microrainbow.org/joint-response-to-bibby-stockholm-proposal/
"We support Refugee Council’s open letter to Bibby Marine and agree that barges are unsuitable for housing people seeking asylum in the UK. Furthermore, the doubling of the capacity of the barge, and the movement restrictions placed on the people housed there resemble immigration detention, where LGBTQI+ people are particularly at risk of harm. The overcrowded accommodation and the restrictions on movement for the people living at the Bibby Stockholm will replicate many of the conditions of incarceration.
Housing people in prison-like conditions such as those proposed on the Bibby Stockholm risk further traumatising people who are seeking safety and protection.
We know that LGBTQI+ people seeking asylum are particularly at risk of harm and can face serious issues when forced to live in overcrowded conditions like in detention, they are likely to experience discrimination and harassment from other people seeking asylum who can hold LGBTQI-phobic views. Trans people can be at even greater risk of abuse and may be forced to hide their gender identity.
Rainbow Migration’s 2023 pilot study into LGBTQI+ experiences of detention underlines the fact that detention-like conditions are unsafe for LGBTQI+ people. It is clear that the conditions on the Bibby Stockholm will differ from immigration detention in name only, and are likely to put LGBTQI+ people at increased risk of harm."
Above is an extract from their announcement.
You can read the full announcement here:-https://microrainbow.org/joint-response-to-bibby-stockholm-proposal/
Comment from Weymouth Gay Group: -
We are aware this has become a very emotive issue both locally and nationally. We would highlight that to flee your native country where you can not be accepted for being who you are (and endure abuse), must be horrendous. Then being threatened on arriving in a "safer country" to be sent to Rwanda (where being LGBT is unsafe) is just so outrageous and so inhuman. On top of that, to be housed in prison like accommodation for months while the slow Home Office goes though your application just adds to the anxiety.
Many of us would welcome a world with much more kindness, understanding, acceptance, and support for our worldwide LGBT+ community. It's a shame that some people in the UK feel unable to wear the shoes of these people, and walk not a mile in them, but many to fully understand where they have come from and the issues that they and their families face. (Yes, LGBT+ people DO have families!)
Weymouth Gay Group, while non political, welcomes respectful open discussion around our tables at our pub meetups.
Bibby Stockholm LGBT+ residents are most welcomed to join us too!
Quote:- "All those who leave their country of origin to seek safety and protection elsewhere are entitled to the full respect of their human rights and dignity, regardless of their legal status, mode of arrival or any other distinction". UNHCR
Links & further reading:-
Pink News - UK government confirms it thinks asylum seekers who refused barge should ‘f**k off back to France’ https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/08/08/lee-anderson-barge/
Refugees - Know The Facts (Dorset Eye 19/03/2023) essential reading before commenting on this subject
https://dorseteye.com/refugees-know-the-facts/
Pink News - 'Inhumane’ migration bill putting LGBTQ+ people at risk as asylum claims soar (12/09/2023)
https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/09/12/lgbtq-asylum-seekers-rainbow-migration-illegal-act/
Statement by Micro Rainbow and Rainbow Migration https://microrainbow.org/joint-response-to-bibby-stockholm-proposal/
Rainbow Migration
website - https://www.rainbowmigration.org.uk/
twitter - https://twitter.com/rainbowmigrants
Micro Rainbow
website - https://microrainbow.org/
twitter - https://twitter.com/MicroRainbow
Dorset Race Equality Council
website - https://www.dorsetrec.org.uk/
twitter https://twitter.com/DorsetREC
Helplines / support LGBT+ asylum and immigration info see our helplines / support page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
** Thanks to Micro Rainbow for use of above text and photo. **
Scroll down for more about the Bibby Barge with our post of 06/07/2023
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In their joint response, they ask the Home Office to commit to safeguarding LGBTQI people seeking asylum.
Below is an extract from their announcement. You can read the full announcement here:- https://microrainbow.org/joint-response-to-bibby-stockholm-proposal/
"We support Refugee Council’s open letter to Bibby Marine and agree that barges are unsuitable for housing people seeking asylum in the UK. Furthermore, the doubling of the capacity of the barge, and the movement restrictions placed on the people housed there resemble immigration detention, where LGBTQI+ people are particularly at risk of harm. The overcrowded accommodation and the restrictions on movement for the people living at the Bibby Stockholm will replicate many of the conditions of incarceration.
Housing people in prison-like conditions such as those proposed on the Bibby Stockholm risk further traumatising people who are seeking safety and protection.
We know that LGBTQI+ people seeking asylum are particularly at risk of harm and can face serious issues when forced to live in overcrowded conditions like in detention, they are likely to experience discrimination and harassment from other people seeking asylum who can hold LGBTQI-phobic views. Trans people can be at even greater risk of abuse and may be forced to hide their gender identity.
Rainbow Migration’s 2023 pilot study into LGBTQI+ experiences of detention underlines the fact that detention-like conditions are unsafe for LGBTQI+ people. It is clear that the conditions on the Bibby Stockholm will differ from immigration detention in name only, and are likely to put LGBTQI+ people at increased risk of harm."
Above is an extract from their announcement.
You can read the full announcement here:-https://microrainbow.org/joint-response-to-bibby-stockholm-proposal/
Comment from Weymouth Gay Group: -
We are aware this has become a very emotive issue both locally and nationally. We would highlight that to flee your native country where you can not be accepted for being who you are (and endure abuse), must be horrendous. Then being threatened on arriving in a "safer country" to be sent to Rwanda (where being LGBT is unsafe) is just so outrageous and so inhuman. On top of that, to be housed in prison like accommodation for months while the slow Home Office goes though your application just adds to the anxiety.
Many of us would welcome a world with much more kindness, understanding, acceptance, and support for our worldwide LGBT+ community. It's a shame that some people in the UK feel unable to wear the shoes of these people, and walk not a mile in them, but many to fully understand where they have come from and the issues that they and their families face. (Yes, LGBT+ people DO have families!)
Weymouth Gay Group, while non political, welcomes respectful open discussion around our tables at our pub meetups.
Bibby Stockholm LGBT+ residents are most welcomed to join us too!
Quote:- "All those who leave their country of origin to seek safety and protection elsewhere are entitled to the full respect of their human rights and dignity, regardless of their legal status, mode of arrival or any other distinction". UNHCR
Links & further reading:-
Pink News - UK government confirms it thinks asylum seekers who refused barge should ‘f**k off back to France’ https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/08/08/lee-anderson-barge/
Refugees - Know The Facts (Dorset Eye 19/03/2023) essential reading before commenting on this subject
https://dorseteye.com/refugees-know-the-facts/
Pink News - 'Inhumane’ migration bill putting LGBTQ+ people at risk as asylum claims soar (12/09/2023)
https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/09/12/lgbtq-asylum-seekers-rainbow-migration-illegal-act/
Statement by Micro Rainbow and Rainbow Migration https://microrainbow.org/joint-response-to-bibby-stockholm-proposal/
Rainbow Migration
website - https://www.rainbowmigration.org.uk/
twitter - https://twitter.com/rainbowmigrants
Micro Rainbow
website - https://microrainbow.org/
twitter - https://twitter.com/MicroRainbow
Dorset Race Equality Council
website - https://www.dorsetrec.org.uk/
twitter https://twitter.com/DorsetREC
Helplines / support LGBT+ asylum and immigration info see our helplines / support page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
** Thanks to Micro Rainbow for use of above text and photo. **
Scroll down for more about the Bibby Barge with our post of 06/07/2023
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Dorset school presented LGBT award by Heartstopper stars (Posted here 24/07/2023)
Extract from Dorset Echo. You can read the full story here -www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23673415.dorset-school-presented-lgbt-award-heartstopper-stars/
Pupils and teachers from a school in Dorset have won an award for celebrating LGBT+ Pride, presented by two stars of the hit Netflix show Heartstopper.
Actors Corinna Brown and Tobie Donovan presented school pupils and teachers from Yewstock School and College - a community Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) school in Sturminster Newton - with an award for their Pride Group at the Just Like Us charity awards.
Yewstock School and College in Sturminster Newton were awarded The Pride Group of the Year award.
The school won the award for going "above and beyond" to help LGBT+ pupils feel safe and celebrated at school, showing outstanding efforts to platform the voices of all their Pride Group members.
Yewstock School’s Rainbow Alliance meets weekly to learn about and discuss LGBT+ topics, read stories, do group activities, and the group has even hosted assemblies on LGBT+ inclusion for the wider school community.
You can read the full Dorset Echo story here -www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23673415.dorset-school-presented-lgbt-award-heartstopper-stars/
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Extract from Dorset Echo. You can read the full story here -www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23673415.dorset-school-presented-lgbt-award-heartstopper-stars/
Pupils and teachers from a school in Dorset have won an award for celebrating LGBT+ Pride, presented by two stars of the hit Netflix show Heartstopper.
Actors Corinna Brown and Tobie Donovan presented school pupils and teachers from Yewstock School and College - a community Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) school in Sturminster Newton - with an award for their Pride Group at the Just Like Us charity awards.
Yewstock School and College in Sturminster Newton were awarded The Pride Group of the Year award.
The school won the award for going "above and beyond" to help LGBT+ pupils feel safe and celebrated at school, showing outstanding efforts to platform the voices of all their Pride Group members.
Yewstock School’s Rainbow Alliance meets weekly to learn about and discuss LGBT+ topics, read stories, do group activities, and the group has even hosted assemblies on LGBT+ inclusion for the wider school community.
You can read the full Dorset Echo story here -www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23673415.dorset-school-presented-lgbt-award-heartstopper-stars/
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Job vacancy - Youth Support Worker Space Youth Project
(posted here 24/07/2023)
Here is an opportunity to work for an amazing organisation in Dorset supporting young LGBT+ people. A chance to work in Space! (Sorry couldn't resist that!).
SPACE YOUTH PROJECT - JOB TITLE : Youth Support Worker
JOB TITLE :Leader in Charge Youth Support Worker
(posted here 24/07/2023)
Here is an opportunity to work for an amazing organisation in Dorset supporting young LGBT+ people. A chance to work in Space! (Sorry couldn't resist that!).
SPACE YOUTH PROJECT - JOB TITLE : Youth Support Worker
JOB TITLE :Leader in Charge Youth Support Worker
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MAIN PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE JOB
To develop the service for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and questioning (LGBT+) young people in DORSET. The project’s aim is to engage with LGBT+ young people to support them and enable them to develop healthy lifestyles, life skills, have fun and realise their full potential in a group work environment. POSITION IN ORGANISATION Reports to : Project Manager, Operations manager and Space Youth Project Trustees Budget responsibilities: To adhere to Space Youth Project financial procedures. Hours : 35 hours per week Salary : Depending on qualification level 18964 - 25313 Key Duties & Responsibilities ● To facilitate the review / continuation / set-up of groups in various locations in DORSET. ● To engage and youth work directly with LGBT+ young people. ● To promote youth participation in projects. ● To facilitate youth led programme planning. ● To carry out 121 sessions. ● To help assess the young people’s needs, assist development and measure their outcomes. ● To work flexibly to meet the needs of young people. This will involve evening/weekend work. ● To oversee, support and supervise volunteers. ● To promote the service to other agencies. ● To monitor and evaluate the project. ● To undertake other duties appropriate to the post as required by the Space Youth Project Manager and Trustees. |
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES
∗ To comply with the requirements of all Space Youth Projects policies, procedures and staff instructions, including responsibilities under the Safeguarding and Health & Safety Policies and Procedures. ∗ A commitment to equal opportunities ∗ To work in an anti-oppressive manner ∗ To attend supervision sessions ∗ To attend staff meetings ∗ To ensure the confidentiality of information. ∗ To participate in training and development activities as necessary to ensure up to date knowledge and skills. For full details including Person Specification and application form please contact the Space Youth Project office at:- Space Youth Project c/o Bournemouth & Poole College North Road, POOLE, BH14 0LS email:- [email protected] Tel - 01202 205279 Space Youth Project (Website www.spaceyouthproject.co.uk) Welcoming all young gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBT+) people up to age 25 across Dorset scince 2001! Note:- We list some info about the Space Youth Project meet ups in our area on our Events Diary Monthly listing page. See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html |
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New LGBTQIA+ comedy night in Bridport (posted here 23/07/2023)
LAUGH OUT PROUD Bridport Arts Centre Saturday 9 September, 2023 8:00pm
(Also on Saturday 9th December different artists)
Laught Out Proud is London's brand new LGBTQIA+ comedy night. Featuring the best in established and upcoming acts from the community on the UK comedy circuit.
Laugh Out Proud at Bridport Arts Centre will feature the stand-up-comedy delights of Andrew White, Russell Arathoon and Andrew O'Neill in September. December with Mark Cram, Kate Martin and Daniel Foxx.
This is night is all about giving acts and audiences alike a fun and friendly place to express themselves, kick back, have a laugh and good time in an inclusive and welcoming comedy club environment. Whether it’s comedy, cabaret or anything in between – Laugh Out Proud is the queer night out you’re looking for.
More info -
September https://www.bridport-arts.com/event/laugh-out-proud-september/
December https://www.bridport-arts.com/event/laugh-out-proud-december/
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(Also on Saturday 9th December different artists)
Laught Out Proud is London's brand new LGBTQIA+ comedy night. Featuring the best in established and upcoming acts from the community on the UK comedy circuit.
Laugh Out Proud at Bridport Arts Centre will feature the stand-up-comedy delights of Andrew White, Russell Arathoon and Andrew O'Neill in September. December with Mark Cram, Kate Martin and Daniel Foxx.
This is night is all about giving acts and audiences alike a fun and friendly place to express themselves, kick back, have a laugh and good time in an inclusive and welcoming comedy club environment. Whether it’s comedy, cabaret or anything in between – Laugh Out Proud is the queer night out you’re looking for.
More info -
September https://www.bridport-arts.com/event/laugh-out-proud-september/
December https://www.bridport-arts.com/event/laugh-out-proud-december/
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Bridport Literary Festival - Patrick Gale The Bull Hotel ballroom on Monday, November 6 at 4pm.
(posted here 23/07/2023)
(posted here 23/07/2023)
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Bridport Literary Festival takes place in November and the programme is due to be unveiled at the beginning of August.
But in a pre-programme announcement, BridLit has unveiled a special book club event with bestselling author Patrick Gale, whose book, Mother’s Boy, came out in paperback this year. The talk will be at The Bull Hotel ballroom on Monday 6 November at 4pm. Book clubs are being invited to put Mother’s Boy on their autumn reading list and then meet the author. |
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Loosely based on the life of Charles Causley, this is a coming-of-age novel of class, desire and two world wars.
Said festival director Tanya Bruce-Lockhart: ‘Cornish laundress Laura meets her husband in 1914, only to be later widowed with a young child, Charles.
‘As a new war looms, Charles signs up for the navy as a coder, relishing his escape from the tight gossipy confines of Launceston. Here he experiences the excitement and terror of a love as clandestine as his work.
‘Gale crafts a complex and tender rendering of the relationship between a dauntless mother and her son, who for much of his remarkable life, must hide in plain sight
Links:-
Bridport Literary Festival - https://www.bridlit.com/bestselling-author-patrick-gale-at-bridport-literary-festival-2023-for-book-club-event/
Dorset Echo report - www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23667489.bestseller-patrick-gale-bridport-literary-festival/
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Said festival director Tanya Bruce-Lockhart: ‘Cornish laundress Laura meets her husband in 1914, only to be later widowed with a young child, Charles.
‘As a new war looms, Charles signs up for the navy as a coder, relishing his escape from the tight gossipy confines of Launceston. Here he experiences the excitement and terror of a love as clandestine as his work.
‘Gale crafts a complex and tender rendering of the relationship between a dauntless mother and her son, who for much of his remarkable life, must hide in plain sight
Links:-
Bridport Literary Festival - https://www.bridlit.com/bestselling-author-patrick-gale-at-bridport-literary-festival-2023-for-book-club-event/
Dorset Echo report - www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23667489.bestseller-patrick-gale-bridport-literary-festival/
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Bournemouth Pride, reports and loads of pics! (posted here 08/07/2023, updated 09/07/2023)
Wow! What a Gay Day! Seven of us ventured out by train from Weymouth & Dorchester for Dorset's biggest annual Pride event - BourneFree. The event did not disappoint, although we did have a drop of rain. We will be bringing you reports from Pride here in the next few days, and links to lots of photos. Every year we hear of guys who say they wanted to go but missed it. So, SAVE the DATE for next year NOW! JULY 6th 2024. A first for this year was our advert (see pic right) on the huge main video screen - oh, and our beer mats went down a treat at the bars! Bournemouth Echo - 89 pics & report - https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/23642693.su-pollard-leads-2023s-bourne-free-pride-parade/ You tube video of parade - https://youtu.be/w53ZvJe0j0g More links to loads more pics coming here in the next few days. |
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Dorset Mind, who run a LGBT+ mental health wellbeing support group in Bournemouth posted a short video on twitter - you can see it here - https://twitter.com/i/status/1678403789601030147
They also said on twitter - "Be Proud Year Round! And never stop being the best allies"
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First stop the Bar!
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A bath full of cool Beer!
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A great variety of community and other stalls .....
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Loved seeing our logo on the Big screen!
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Our new Beer Mats went down a treat at the bars and on the tables in the community village
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The new marquee was much welcomed when the rain came! A lack of shelter last year was an issue, so good that organisers provided some, and more seating.
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Bourne Free 2024 - JULY 5th & 6th
Every year we hear of guys who say they wanted to go but missed it. So,SAVE the DATE for 2024 NOW! JULY 6th 2024. |
It was a long, very worth while day out - was nice to have a comfortable ride home!
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Great to see the Pride Train at Bournemouth Station on our way home. Thank you South Western Railway!
Dont forget to join Weymouth Gay Group guys on the train again in 2024! |
Extract from Bournemouth Echo (08/07/2023)
Chris Ashton, chairman of Bourne Free, said: “Bourne Free is Bournemouth’s pride festival, which is a celebration of equality, diversity and inclusion in Dorset. Dorset is quite an inclusive county and we are lucky to live here, however hate crime went up by 33 per cent this year – that's why it is still important to have pride."
Comment from Weymouth Gay Group - We did not see a Dorset Police stand anywhere (or Dorset Police commissioner) like past years. Would have liked to have asked them what they are doing about the rise in LGBT+ Hate crime? - and will they be bringing back LAGLO Officers - like the Met Police will be?
(Gay Times - https://www.gaytimes.co.uk/life/met-police-restores-lgbtq-liaison-officers-to-rebuild-trust-with-community/)
Great that BourneFree had taken onboard some of the comments from last year, easier entry, tables in the community area, and a much welcomed marque for shelter when the rain came! You can see our write up from last year here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-pride-bournefree.html
However, we are still hearing comments from people who enjoyed all the community stalls and entertainment in the Lower Gardens during previous years (which was free) and reached out to the wider community, rather, as some say, how we are now hidden away in a out of the way park. Bournemouth Pride is still an expensive day out from Weymouth for those on a low income. £20 train, £20 entry into Meyrick Park, drinks £5.
Huge thanks to all the BourneFree team and volunteers who helped the day run so well. Plus enormous thanks for the on screen advert and accepting our beer mats at your bars!
Chris Ashton, chairman of Bourne Free, said: “Bourne Free is Bournemouth’s pride festival, which is a celebration of equality, diversity and inclusion in Dorset. Dorset is quite an inclusive county and we are lucky to live here, however hate crime went up by 33 per cent this year – that's why it is still important to have pride."
Comment from Weymouth Gay Group - We did not see a Dorset Police stand anywhere (or Dorset Police commissioner) like past years. Would have liked to have asked them what they are doing about the rise in LGBT+ Hate crime? - and will they be bringing back LAGLO Officers - like the Met Police will be?
(Gay Times - https://www.gaytimes.co.uk/life/met-police-restores-lgbtq-liaison-officers-to-rebuild-trust-with-community/)
Great that BourneFree had taken onboard some of the comments from last year, easier entry, tables in the community area, and a much welcomed marque for shelter when the rain came! You can see our write up from last year here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-pride-bournefree.html
However, we are still hearing comments from people who enjoyed all the community stalls and entertainment in the Lower Gardens during previous years (which was free) and reached out to the wider community, rather, as some say, how we are now hidden away in a out of the way park. Bournemouth Pride is still an expensive day out from Weymouth for those on a low income. £20 train, £20 entry into Meyrick Park, drinks £5.
Huge thanks to all the BourneFree team and volunteers who helped the day run so well. Plus enormous thanks for the on screen advert and accepting our beer mats at your bars!
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Portland's barge - LGBT+ asylum and immigration.
(posted here 06/07/2023, updated 19/07/2023, updated again 27/07/2023)
With the UK Government's decision to base an Immigration barge in Portland Port, Dorset (arrived 18/07/2023), we felt it would be useful to sign post relevant support. We have added links to LGBT organisations that can help with asylum and the immigration system on our helplines page. See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
We are aware this has become a very emotive issue both locally and nationally. We would highlight that to flee your native country where you can not be accepted for being who you are (and endure abuse), must be horrendous. Then being threatened on arriving in a "safer country" to be sent to Rwanda (where being LGBT is unsafe) is just so outrageous and so inhuman.
See - https://www.rainbowmigration.org.uk/news/rwanda-is-not-safe-for-lgbtqi-people/
Pink News:- (18/07/23) "Government’s Illegal Migration Bill set to become law, despite concerns of LGBTQ+ migrant groups" - www.thepinknews.com/2023/07/18/illegal-migration-bill-passes-house-of-lords/
Also of interest:- (18/07/23) "UK Illegal Migration Bill: UN Refugee Agency and UN Human Rights Office warn of profound impact on human rights and international refugee protection system" See - https://www.unhcr.org/news/press-releases/uk-illegal-migration-bill-un-refugee-agency-and-un-human-rights-office-warn
Quote:- "All those who leave their country of origin to seek safety and protection elsewhere are entitled to the full respect of their human rights and dignity, regardless of their legal status, mode of arrival or any other distinction". UNHCR
New - (27/07/2023) Mirco Rainbow - "LGBTQI people seeking asylum will not be safe on barges. Micro rainbow and Rainbow Migration firmly condenm the proposal to house asylum seekers on the Bibby Stockholm barge."
See - https://microrainbow.org/joint-response-to-bibby-stockholm-proposal/
Many of us would welcome a world with much more kindness, understanding, acceptance, and support for our worldwide LGBT+ community.
(posted here 06/07/2023, updated 19/07/2023, updated again 27/07/2023)
With the UK Government's decision to base an Immigration barge in Portland Port, Dorset (arrived 18/07/2023), we felt it would be useful to sign post relevant support. We have added links to LGBT organisations that can help with asylum and the immigration system on our helplines page. See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
We are aware this has become a very emotive issue both locally and nationally. We would highlight that to flee your native country where you can not be accepted for being who you are (and endure abuse), must be horrendous. Then being threatened on arriving in a "safer country" to be sent to Rwanda (where being LGBT is unsafe) is just so outrageous and so inhuman.
See - https://www.rainbowmigration.org.uk/news/rwanda-is-not-safe-for-lgbtqi-people/
Pink News:- (18/07/23) "Government’s Illegal Migration Bill set to become law, despite concerns of LGBTQ+ migrant groups" - www.thepinknews.com/2023/07/18/illegal-migration-bill-passes-house-of-lords/
Also of interest:- (18/07/23) "UK Illegal Migration Bill: UN Refugee Agency and UN Human Rights Office warn of profound impact on human rights and international refugee protection system" See - https://www.unhcr.org/news/press-releases/uk-illegal-migration-bill-un-refugee-agency-and-un-human-rights-office-warn
Quote:- "All those who leave their country of origin to seek safety and protection elsewhere are entitled to the full respect of their human rights and dignity, regardless of their legal status, mode of arrival or any other distinction". UNHCR
New - (27/07/2023) Mirco Rainbow - "LGBTQI people seeking asylum will not be safe on barges. Micro rainbow and Rainbow Migration firmly condenm the proposal to house asylum seekers on the Bibby Stockholm barge."
See - https://microrainbow.org/joint-response-to-bibby-stockholm-proposal/
Many of us would welcome a world with much more kindness, understanding, acceptance, and support for our worldwide LGBT+ community.
Rainbow Migration supports lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer and intersex (LGBTQI+) people through the asylum and immigration system. Our vision is a world where there is equality, dignity, respect and safety for all people in the expression of their sexual or gender identity.
More see - https://www.rainbowmigration.org.uk/
More see - https://www.rainbowmigration.org.uk/
Micro Rainbow’s vision is to create a world where lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer and intersex (LGBTQI) people are free from discrimination, persecution and have equal opportunities in life, including in accessing employment, training, education, financial services, healthcare, housing, places of faith, and public services.
More see - https://microrainbow.org/
More see - https://microrainbow.org/
Dorset Race Equality Council
We inform and educate regarding race/ethnic relations to:
- Eliminate and counter misunderstanding and negative political propaganda.
- Raise awareness of race/ethnic equality issues with both public sector organisations and private businesses.
- Challenge prejudice and disadvantage and promote the importance of a diverse society.
- Inform minority ethnic individuals of their rights.
- Strengthen community relations in Dorset.
- Work with partner organisations to influence policy and combat racial discrimination and racial violence.
- Uphold both the letter and the spirit of UK and EU law.
Website - https://www.dorsetrec.org.uk/
More LGBT+ asylum and immigration info see our helplines / support page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
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More LGBT+ asylum and immigration info see our helplines / support page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
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"This is Me" moves to Dorch (posted here 06/07/2023)
The weekly pub meetups for LGBTQIA+ gender diverse people and allies will be changing venue soon.
Started by Steve at Weymouth's Waterloo Pub during the summer of 2021, the group will move to its new venue Dorchester's The Old Ship Inn (High West Street, Dorchester DT1 1UW) from Tuesday 1st August. They have been meeting at Weymouth's Royal Oak in Dorchester Road Weymouth for the past few months.
More info on their website:- https://www.thisismedorset.co.uk/
Or you can find out more by having a chat with Anabelle 074114 65007
email [email protected]
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Dorset MP talks "Claptrap" about young Trans people (posted here 01/07/2023, updated 03/07/2023)
Richard Drax, our local MP for Weymouth and most of central Dorset has expressed his views about young transgender people and the use of pronouns in his Dorset Echo column.
He writes about the non - story of a girl saying she identifies as a "Cat". A "news" item that featured in several right wing media including The Daily Telegraph, which Mr Drax quotes.
He is not very complimentary about some teachers too, saying:- "It’s concerning that some teachers appear to be adopting this new religion of equality, diversity and inclusion with fervour."
We suspect Mr Drax has not met and LISTENED to the lives and struggles of Transgender people, particularly young transgender people, their parents, careers, youth workers, teachers, and where relevant mental health support team. His history of LGBT+ support is severely lacking, and to spout his "claptrap" at the end of Pride month is outrageous! A time when he, and other potential parliamentary representatives need to be embracing equality, diversity and inclusion by attending some of the SIX Pride events in Dorset.
His rant ended saying -
"Children will always be children and test the boundaries. However, it’s when, for whatever reason, those boundaries are not crystal clear, and parents are kept in the dark, that we see the rise of this claptrap."
Many in the local LGBT+ community would suggest it's about time we "test the boundaries" of those we elect.
We don’t want any “claptrap” either!
Links :-
Dorset Echo Drax column https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23621570.richard-drax-column-correct-pronouns/
Pink News https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/04/26/education-trans-rishi-sunak-schools-uk/
Pink News:- Investigation into school at centre of cat gender row finds ‘no serious concerns’ at school of ‘kindness’
https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/07/14/cat-gender-school-row-investigation/
Help and support:- Check out our helplines and support page if you have been affected by this story.
See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
Note:- At Weymouth Gay Group pub meetups, you are most welcomed to express your views on this, and many other topics of concern to our community. We embrace diversity!
(update 03/07/2023)
The Dorset Echo comments online after this has attracted a lot of comments - over 70. Here is factual comment which also gives a very good background (from The Guardian) to this "story" by poster "The Jolly Sailor" .
From the Guardian:
It started off innocuously enough - a leaked snippet of teenage pupils at a school debating whether a person could identify as a cat. But within days, and thanks to a media frenzy, Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer were being asked about the remarks.
And by the end of the week, Kemi Badenoch was demanding the school be urgently investigated by Ofsted in case there were safeguarding issues. All this, despite the school itself saying no children had identified as a cat or any other animal.
The controversy began when a student secretly recorded the discussion involving year 8 pupils at Rye college in East Sussex. In the excerpt posted to TikTok, a pupil describes the idea of another pupil identifying as a cow or cat as crazy and extends her remarks to include biological sex and gender as binary.
A teacher is heard telling the student that their views were despicable, threatening to report them to a senior colleague and saying: If you don’t like it, you need to go to a different school.
The audio was prominently reported by the Sun, and the Daily Mail began warning of outbreaks of so-called furries in schools.
"Geoff Barton, the general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders and a former headteacher, said: There is a need for a sense of proportion here. This involves an incident at one school in which the trust has already met with the DfE to share an update on the events that took place, and the school has said that no pupils identify as a cat or any other animal.
Now we have politicians, including the minister for women and equalities, weighing in over this matter in a manner that is unnecessary, unhelpful and smacks of grandstanding. To be clear, we have never heard of any issues arising at any schools over children identifying as animals. However, there are 9 million children in England’s schools so all sorts of discussions are bound to crop up in classrooms. Teachers and leaders are very good at dealing with whatever situation arises.
My personal thoughts by Charity Gardiner
The garbage misinformation spouted by Richard Drax in the Echo seems to be deliberate rhetoric to inflame people, in this age of a mobile phone in everyone’s hands has it not occurred to anyone that there are no pictures of litter boxes in schools, I do wonder why not? Actually, I don’t wonder, there are no pics because there are no litter boxes!
So why is Drax spreading this misinformation? We all know it is easy for anyone with the ability to use Google to find the truth of these stories, it's possible he foolishly did not care enough to check the story or maybe he wanted to deliberately spread misinformation, so this makes him either a fool or a liar, you choose!
Speaking as someone who works with young LGBT people, I see the damage this sort of rhetorical rubbish does to their mental health, they are scared to be themselves and live in constant fear for their safety in schools and on the street, yes, in schools, where they should feel safest, misinformation spread by liars and fools has a real effect on young people’s wellbeing, and I fear it will be soon getting worse.
They don’t feel safe on the streets as there is no faith in the Police, considering the Police are having to toe the Governments line this is hardly surprising, and it is no surprise that Richard Drax is one of them, the future seems bleak for young people with school’s guidelines to be announced soon by this government. I could go on but for now…….
Charity Gardiner
She/her
One to One/Youth Worker
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Richard Drax, our local MP for Weymouth and most of central Dorset has expressed his views about young transgender people and the use of pronouns in his Dorset Echo column.
He writes about the non - story of a girl saying she identifies as a "Cat". A "news" item that featured in several right wing media including The Daily Telegraph, which Mr Drax quotes.
He is not very complimentary about some teachers too, saying:- "It’s concerning that some teachers appear to be adopting this new religion of equality, diversity and inclusion with fervour."
We suspect Mr Drax has not met and LISTENED to the lives and struggles of Transgender people, particularly young transgender people, their parents, careers, youth workers, teachers, and where relevant mental health support team. His history of LGBT+ support is severely lacking, and to spout his "claptrap" at the end of Pride month is outrageous! A time when he, and other potential parliamentary representatives need to be embracing equality, diversity and inclusion by attending some of the SIX Pride events in Dorset.
His rant ended saying -
"Children will always be children and test the boundaries. However, it’s when, for whatever reason, those boundaries are not crystal clear, and parents are kept in the dark, that we see the rise of this claptrap."
Many in the local LGBT+ community would suggest it's about time we "test the boundaries" of those we elect.
We don’t want any “claptrap” either!
Links :-
Dorset Echo Drax column https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23621570.richard-drax-column-correct-pronouns/
Pink News https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/04/26/education-trans-rishi-sunak-schools-uk/
Pink News:- Investigation into school at centre of cat gender row finds ‘no serious concerns’ at school of ‘kindness’
https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/07/14/cat-gender-school-row-investigation/
Help and support:- Check out our helplines and support page if you have been affected by this story.
See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
Note:- At Weymouth Gay Group pub meetups, you are most welcomed to express your views on this, and many other topics of concern to our community. We embrace diversity!
(update 03/07/2023)
The Dorset Echo comments online after this has attracted a lot of comments - over 70. Here is factual comment which also gives a very good background (from The Guardian) to this "story" by poster "The Jolly Sailor" .
From the Guardian:
It started off innocuously enough - a leaked snippet of teenage pupils at a school debating whether a person could identify as a cat. But within days, and thanks to a media frenzy, Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer were being asked about the remarks.
And by the end of the week, Kemi Badenoch was demanding the school be urgently investigated by Ofsted in case there were safeguarding issues. All this, despite the school itself saying no children had identified as a cat or any other animal.
The controversy began when a student secretly recorded the discussion involving year 8 pupils at Rye college in East Sussex. In the excerpt posted to TikTok, a pupil describes the idea of another pupil identifying as a cow or cat as crazy and extends her remarks to include biological sex and gender as binary.
A teacher is heard telling the student that their views were despicable, threatening to report them to a senior colleague and saying: If you don’t like it, you need to go to a different school.
The audio was prominently reported by the Sun, and the Daily Mail began warning of outbreaks of so-called furries in schools.
"Geoff Barton, the general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders and a former headteacher, said: There is a need for a sense of proportion here. This involves an incident at one school in which the trust has already met with the DfE to share an update on the events that took place, and the school has said that no pupils identify as a cat or any other animal.
Now we have politicians, including the minister for women and equalities, weighing in over this matter in a manner that is unnecessary, unhelpful and smacks of grandstanding. To be clear, we have never heard of any issues arising at any schools over children identifying as animals. However, there are 9 million children in England’s schools so all sorts of discussions are bound to crop up in classrooms. Teachers and leaders are very good at dealing with whatever situation arises.
My personal thoughts by Charity Gardiner
The garbage misinformation spouted by Richard Drax in the Echo seems to be deliberate rhetoric to inflame people, in this age of a mobile phone in everyone’s hands has it not occurred to anyone that there are no pictures of litter boxes in schools, I do wonder why not? Actually, I don’t wonder, there are no pics because there are no litter boxes!
So why is Drax spreading this misinformation? We all know it is easy for anyone with the ability to use Google to find the truth of these stories, it's possible he foolishly did not care enough to check the story or maybe he wanted to deliberately spread misinformation, so this makes him either a fool or a liar, you choose!
Speaking as someone who works with young LGBT people, I see the damage this sort of rhetorical rubbish does to their mental health, they are scared to be themselves and live in constant fear for their safety in schools and on the street, yes, in schools, where they should feel safest, misinformation spread by liars and fools has a real effect on young people’s wellbeing, and I fear it will be soon getting worse.
They don’t feel safe on the streets as there is no faith in the Police, considering the Police are having to toe the Governments line this is hardly surprising, and it is no surprise that Richard Drax is one of them, the future seems bleak for young people with school’s guidelines to be announced soon by this government. I could go on but for now…….
Charity Gardiner
She/her
One to One/Youth Worker
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Dorset Police appeal in search for missing person in Weymouth area (posted here 29/06/2023)
UPDATE - 05/07/2023 Sad news - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23635017.coast-tragedy-body-found-portland/
Below copy from Dorset Police website - https://news.dorset.police.uk/news-article/9d8dd718-f714-ee11-9d57-6045bdd24049
UPDATE - 05/07/2023 Sad news - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23635017.coast-tragedy-body-found-portland/
Below copy from Dorset Police website - https://news.dorset.police.uk/news-article/9d8dd718-f714-ee11-9d57-6045bdd24049
Officers are renewing their appeal for information from the public and issuing new images as efforts to locate missing Joe Clements from Weymouth continue.
Joe, aged 25, was reported missing having last been seen by family at around 11am on Tuesday 20 June 2023. Joe is believed to have been in the Chesil Beach area on Portland some time during that night and has not been seen or heard from since. Joe is described as five feet nine inches tall and of slim build with brown hair.
Chief Inspector Andy Edwards, of Dorset Police, said: “It has been a week since Joe was last seen and we are continuing to do all we can to locate them. Officers are also keeping Joe’s family updated with any developments.
“I am making a renewed appeal for information from anyone who may have seen Joe, or someone matching the description given, in the area of Chesil Beach on the night of Tuesday 20 June into the early hours of Wednesday 21 June 2023. Joe was believed to have travelled to Portland in a grey Kia Sportage.
“We are also issuing new images of Joe in the hope that it might assist anyone who may have seen them in the area.”
Anyone with information or knowledge as to Joe’s whereabouts is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55230096044.
Weymouth Gay Group have been asisting Dorset Police with this appeal.
Help and support:- Check out our helplines and support page if you have been affected by this news.
See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
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Joe, aged 25, was reported missing having last been seen by family at around 11am on Tuesday 20 June 2023. Joe is believed to have been in the Chesil Beach area on Portland some time during that night and has not been seen or heard from since. Joe is described as five feet nine inches tall and of slim build with brown hair.
Chief Inspector Andy Edwards, of Dorset Police, said: “It has been a week since Joe was last seen and we are continuing to do all we can to locate them. Officers are also keeping Joe’s family updated with any developments.
“I am making a renewed appeal for information from anyone who may have seen Joe, or someone matching the description given, in the area of Chesil Beach on the night of Tuesday 20 June into the early hours of Wednesday 21 June 2023. Joe was believed to have travelled to Portland in a grey Kia Sportage.
“We are also issuing new images of Joe in the hope that it might assist anyone who may have seen them in the area.”
Anyone with information or knowledge as to Joe’s whereabouts is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55230096044.
Weymouth Gay Group have been asisting Dorset Police with this appeal.
Help and support:- Check out our helplines and support page if you have been affected by this news.
See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
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Pride in Store! (posted here 26/06/2023 updated 29/06/2023)
Wonderful to see Weymouth shops embracing Pride month. We have already reported about Weymouth Post Office with their excellent display of LGBT+ flags and gifts (Scroll down & see below).
Joining in the month's celebrations are Super Drug, The Range and WH Smiths. Super Drug has a welcoming poster at the door, while The Range has a Home Decor stand with an assortment of gifts, Smiths has an encouraging poster displayed on its entrance doors.
Scan the Smiths Pride poster QR code and you will get a very good Stonewall page about Pride and how to become an active ally!
If you see Pride in your local Dorset stores & shops, please take a pic and let's display it here.
*Note - Talking to Vicky at Weymouth Post Office, she said the comments they have had have been great (with only one person being negative ), and they are now thinking about having a permanent rainbow gifts / LGBT+ section in the shop all year long! Pride is not just for one month. Bless them. Solidarity!
Wonderful to see Weymouth shops embracing Pride month. We have already reported about Weymouth Post Office with their excellent display of LGBT+ flags and gifts (Scroll down & see below).
Joining in the month's celebrations are Super Drug, The Range and WH Smiths. Super Drug has a welcoming poster at the door, while The Range has a Home Decor stand with an assortment of gifts, Smiths has an encouraging poster displayed on its entrance doors.
Scan the Smiths Pride poster QR code and you will get a very good Stonewall page about Pride and how to become an active ally!
If you see Pride in your local Dorset stores & shops, please take a pic and let's display it here.
*Note - Talking to Vicky at Weymouth Post Office, she said the comments they have had have been great (with only one person being negative ), and they are now thinking about having a permanent rainbow gifts / LGBT+ section in the shop all year long! Pride is not just for one month. Bless them. Solidarity!
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Bournemouth Pride - Bourne Free.
Acts announced & new Parade route (posted here 21/06/2023) |
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Dorset's biggest annual LGBT and longest running Pride event has recently published more info for July 8th. Meyrick Park in Bournemouth is again the venue with East 17 headlining. Wristbands are £20. Dorset has been blessed with a record SIX Pride events this year, if you have missed the rest, don't miss this! Every year a group of us from Weymouth Gay Group enjoy this amazing Pride event, traveling together on the train. You are welcomed to join us! Friday evening is a free family event at Meyrick park. Info on Bournefree website. |
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The Parade accepting vehicles this year starts on the seafront at East Clift though the town and ends at Meyrick Park. It starts at 11am. Last year we watched it pass by at Braidley Road near the entrance to Meyrick Park. This worked well, being a short walk from the railway Station. We were pleasantly surprised at just how many groups and organisations were in it. Well worth watching and cheering on, or even taking part! |
Info & Links:-
For our report on last year's BourneFree - with links to over 250 photos, see our Pride page here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-pride-bournefree.html
Bournefree
website https://www.bournefree.co.uk/
tickets / wrist bands https://www.tickettailor.com/events/bournefree/855709?
twitter https://twitter.com/BourneFreePride (Note - no updates since 2009 !)
Visit Bournemouth
website https://www.visitbournemouth.com/item/962-new-parade-route-for-bourne-free-2023
LGBTQIA+ Bournemouth
website https://www.gaybournemouth.net/
twitter twitter.com/GayBMTH
For our report on last year's BourneFree - with links to over 250 photos, see our Pride page here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-pride-bournefree.html
Bournefree
website https://www.bournefree.co.uk/
tickets / wrist bands https://www.tickettailor.com/events/bournefree/855709?
twitter https://twitter.com/BourneFreePride (Note - no updates since 2009 !)
Visit Bournemouth
website https://www.visitbournemouth.com/item/962-new-parade-route-for-bourne-free-2023
LGBTQIA+ Bournemouth
website https://www.gaybournemouth.net/
twitter twitter.com/GayBMTH
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Dorset’s record SIX Prides 2023 – a round up so far …. (posted here 17/06/2023)
Never did we think Dorset would host SIX Pride events in one year! 2023 has set a super record.
Three Pub Prides, two Youth Prides, and of course the well-established Bournemouth Pride yet to come.
Never did we think Dorset would host SIX Pride events in one year! 2023 has set a super record.
Three Pub Prides, two Youth Prides, and of course the well-established Bournemouth Pride yet to come.
Pub Pride is quite new on the LGBT calendar, being created and promoted by “Ask for Clive”, the LGBT pub and bar venue safety initiative. Its aim is to celebrate the start of Pride month at your local. 2023 saw over 300 venues across the UK registered to take part, with three in Dorset. The Waterloo Pub in Weymouth successfully hosted Pub Pride last year. Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) contacted the three Dorset Pub Pride venues in advance of the day (26th May) and we offered our support in helping to promote any events they were putting on. We were please to hear that The Globe in Swanage had a successful drag night, but we are still unsure if anything was put on at Hardys Pub in Dorchester? The third pub registered on the Pub Pride website was The Wyke Smugglers in Weymouth. This venue has recently had a change of management, and while nothing special happened this year, they are keen to do something next year. They also kindly invited our group to use their venue during the year.
Last year saw the first ever Dorset Youth Pride at Shire Hall Dorchester. It was a very successful and welcomed Pride event and was repeated recently for 2023. Set in the unique old court rooms this Youth Pride offered a range of activities, LGBT stalls and talks during the afternoon of June 10th all inside one venue. Weymouth Gay Group were one of many stalls there. We love this event, not just because we can have a stall, but with our laptop on our table we can show visitors our wonderful website! This helps to answer many of the enquiries we get, not just about our group, but LGBT events, news, and support in Dorset. Our website has been called “….. the LGBT Bible locally”, by Dorset NHS, so great to share it at Pride!
New for LGBT+ young people this year has been Chesil Youth Pride. Organised by staff from Dorset Council and Space Youth Project, with Weymouth College being a great hosting site. This took place on 17th June, a week after the Youth Pride in Dorchester. Like Dorset Youth Pride, this new Pride event was very much focused on providing a fun and supportive day out for young people. Several organisations offering support for today’s LGBT+ youth had stalls there.
The highlight of the day was the FIRST EVER Pride parade along the Prom! - Weymouth’s esplanade. This has been a dream of the local LGBT community for many years, so a HUGE thanks to all at Chesil Youth Pride for making this happen!
The highlight of the day was the FIRST EVER Pride parade along the Prom! - Weymouth’s esplanade. This has been a dream of the local LGBT community for many years, so a HUGE thanks to all at Chesil Youth Pride for making this happen!
Unfortunately, as Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) is a very informal group (our guys like it that way) we could not have an info stall at Chesil Youth Pride as we don’t have public liability insurance – an issue that has cropped up at other events we would like to be embraced by and welcomed at within the local Dorset LGBT community. It would have been brill if two or more of our WGG guys carried our bannor in the Pride Parade. Perhaps next year?
For those of us young at heart and perhaps not otherwise very youthful, it is a real joy to see the progress that young people today can enjoy. This has been summed up beautifully by Debbs from the Weymouth “This is Me” Transgender group who recently said this on social media about Dorset Youth Pride at Shire Hall: -
For those of us young at heart and perhaps not otherwise very youthful, it is a real joy to see the progress that young people today can enjoy. This has been summed up beautifully by Debbs from the Weymouth “This is Me” Transgender group who recently said this on social media about Dorset Youth Pride at Shire Hall: -
“A fantastic day seeing the younger generation not afraid of expressing their sexuality or gender identity. There were some who were just taking their first steps into being who they are and being given encouragement by others who have been where they are and able to share how they coped and answer any questions they may have. I wish when I was their age, I'd had the access to information and help they are now slowly but more readily able to get” Debbs from the Weymouth “This is Me” Transgender group.
Growing up at a time when it was illegal to be who you are, and also living though schooling with section 28, has left its scars on a whole generation. Something that some of our Weymouth Gay Group guys are still struggling with many years later. Just wish we had Youth Pride back in our day!
Dorset’s next and last Pride for 2023 – The BIG ONE! BOURNE FREE – Bournemouth Pride. See you there – July 8th. You are welcomed to join a group of WGG guys going on the train for the day. It's Dorset's longest running and biggest Pride event attracting thousands of people! Be there!
Pride 2024 - You can be sure that we Weymouth Gay Group will be (hopefully!) the first with all the Dorset Pride news on our website. So do keep in touch so that you know whats going on and dont miss out!
Meanwhile you might like to check out our LGBT community monthly events diary page - with 41 events listed for June, and 37 so far for July! Join in and enjoy! See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
NEW! for 2024 - a "Weymouth Pride" ! ?? More info soon. see - https://twitter.com/weymouth_pride
Links-
Ask for Clive https://askforclive.com/
Ask for Clive twitter https://twitter.com/clive_ask
Pub Pride https://askforclive.com/pub-pride-2023
Shire Hall https://shirehalldorset.org/
Shire Hall twitter https://twitter.com/shirehalldorset
Chesil Youth Pride website ?
Chesil Youth Pride twitter #ChesilYouthPride
This is me https://www.thisismedorset.co.uk/
This is me twitter ?
Bourne Free - Bournemouth Pride https://www.bournefree.co.uk/
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Meanwhile you might like to check out our LGBT community monthly events diary page - with 41 events listed for June, and 37 so far for July! Join in and enjoy! See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
NEW! for 2024 - a "Weymouth Pride" ! ?? More info soon. see - https://twitter.com/weymouth_pride
Links-
Ask for Clive https://askforclive.com/
Ask for Clive twitter https://twitter.com/clive_ask
Pub Pride https://askforclive.com/pub-pride-2023
Shire Hall https://shirehalldorset.org/
Shire Hall twitter https://twitter.com/shirehalldorset
Chesil Youth Pride website ?
Chesil Youth Pride twitter #ChesilYouthPride
This is me https://www.thisismedorset.co.uk/
This is me twitter ?
Bourne Free - Bournemouth Pride https://www.bournefree.co.uk/
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Chesil Youth Pride - first ever Pride parade on Esplanade! (posted here 17/06/2023 updated 22/06/2023)
Here are a few pics from today's first Chesil Youth Pride.
(Note we asked all stall holders for permission to take a pic of their stall, saying we would like to use it here)
If you have pics of the day that you (and those in it) are happy to share particularly of the Parade, we would love to post them here. email [email protected]
You can read a very good Dorset Council report of the day here - https://news.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/2023/06/22/chesil-youth-pride-2023-celebrating-dorsets-lgbtqi-young-people/
You can see a short video of the day here (By Youth in Dorset) - https://www.instagram.com/reel/CtmucEno7QC/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igshid=Y2Q0NmNiMjc3NQ%3D%3D
(Photo above with thanks to Dorset LGBT+ Voices Forum)
Here are a few pics from today's first Chesil Youth Pride.
(Note we asked all stall holders for permission to take a pic of their stall, saying we would like to use it here)
If you have pics of the day that you (and those in it) are happy to share particularly of the Parade, we would love to post them here. email [email protected]
You can read a very good Dorset Council report of the day here - https://news.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/2023/06/22/chesil-youth-pride-2023-celebrating-dorsets-lgbtqi-young-people/
You can see a short video of the day here (By Youth in Dorset) - https://www.instagram.com/reel/CtmucEno7QC/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igshid=Y2Q0NmNiMjc3NQ%3D%3D
(Photo above with thanks to Dorset LGBT+ Voices Forum)
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New LGBT+ website for Dorset (posted here 17/06/2023 updated 19/06/20230) Dorset is set to have a new website bringing a collective voice to our community. Presently in its construction phase, The Dorset LGBT+ Voices Forum are seeking feedback on it's progress so far. It will cover:- info about the Forum, supporting the LGBT+ community, reporting hate crime, getting support, news & events. You can view the Forums website here - https://www.lgbtvoicesdorsetforum.org.uk/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/DorsetLGBTVoice Note - Weymouth Gay Group is looking for someone to represent us on the Forum. Ideally you will be a regular attendee at our twice weekly pub meetups. Contact us if you can help! email [email protected] |
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Ice Cream Space (Posted here 16/06/023)
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In a post on twitter Space Youth Project said:- Eat ice cream, support LGBT+ youth in Dorset! Thank you Rossis for your fundraising. Rossi's said on the Just Giving page:- "At Rossi’s, supporting the LGBT+ community is really close to our hearts. So in honour of Pride Month we would like to raise some money for a local charity here is Dorset. We have selected the Space Youth Project as our chosen charity as we believe the work that they do with LGBT+ youth is really important and deserving". Ross's is at - 92 Esplanade, Weymouth DT4 7AT Links:- You can see the Just Giving page here:- https://www.justgiving.com/page/rossis-spaceyouthproject Space Youth Project twitter:- @SpaceDorset website www.spaceyouthproject.co.uk |
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Weymouth Post Office does Pride! (posted here 25/05/203 updated 05/06/2023 updated 15/06/2023)
Weymouth's Post Office in St Thomas Street has embraced Pride month with a First Class display!
Weymouth's Post Office in St Thomas Street has embraced Pride month with a First Class display!
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Both in its shop window, and inside with a beautiful range of Rainbow gifts. Rainbow and transgender+ bunting streaching almost the whole lenght of the shop too! It's a great way to help celebrate Pride month.
Huge thanks to Vicky at Weymouth Cards who does this every year. Check it out soon!
Huge thanks to Vicky at Weymouth Cards who does this every year. Check it out soon!
Weymouth Post Office 87 St Thomas Street, Weymouth DT4 8EN
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Trans+ NB & diversity flags above card display!
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Take a closer look, you may see some Weymouth Gay Group input into the display! - Is that our beer mats we see! (Pic right)
Plus poster with info of LGBT groups that run local events. (Pic left) |
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"Love is Love" Dorset Youth Pride 2023 (posted here 10/06/2023)
Dorchester recently welcomed this now annual (in it's second year) LGBT+ Youth Pride event. in the unique surroundings of Dorchesters old court house - Shire Hall - with all its history is a very interesting venue at any time of year. This wonderful event offered lots of interesting activies for young people and their famies, and was very well attended.
Lovely as always to see, and network with all our friends from the Dorset LGBT community (loads of stalls!), - our family!
We were there with our info stall (pic below) but as we were on our own maining our stall, we could not get away to enjoy all of the other events going on. Transport up to, and return from the event also caused us a few last minute problems especially carrying everything.
Below a copy of the leaflet about Dorset Youth Pride, just in case you missed it.
Dorchester recently welcomed this now annual (in it's second year) LGBT+ Youth Pride event. in the unique surroundings of Dorchesters old court house - Shire Hall - with all its history is a very interesting venue at any time of year. This wonderful event offered lots of interesting activies for young people and their famies, and was very well attended.
Lovely as always to see, and network with all our friends from the Dorset LGBT community (loads of stalls!), - our family!
We were there with our info stall (pic below) but as we were on our own maining our stall, we could not get away to enjoy all of the other events going on. Transport up to, and return from the event also caused us a few last minute problems especially carrying everything.
Below a copy of the leaflet about Dorset Youth Pride, just in case you missed it.
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Weymouth Gay Group would like to thank everyone at Shire Hall for hosting and organising this Pride event. It would be nice if in 2024 if the Chesil Youth Pride (on at Weymouth College 17th June 2023) could connect with Dorset Youth Pride. One idea if our local towns where a bit closer - is a passing of the Rainbow Pride flag from one Youth Pride to another! That would be an Olympic occasion. Especially if we could ask Tom Daley to do it! Together always: United in Diversity! 
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Tesco Weymouth - Standing Proud Together
(posted here 05/06/2023)
Weymouth's town center Tesco store is celebrating Pride with supportive posters in its window, as well as a display banner inside.
We have given them a few of our new Weymouth Gay Group beer mats - which we hope they will pin to their customer notice board.
They say they support LGBTQ+ all year round, so be nice if they could display one of our little posters all year round!
You can read more about Tesco and its support for LGBTQ here:-
www.tescoplc.com/tesco-to-donate-almost-100-000-to-mark-pride/
If you see other local shops embracing Pride month, we would love to promote them here, especially if they support our community all year round!
Send your pics to us at [email protected]
(posted here 05/06/2023)
Weymouth's town center Tesco store is celebrating Pride with supportive posters in its window, as well as a display banner inside.
We have given them a few of our new Weymouth Gay Group beer mats - which we hope they will pin to their customer notice board.
They say they support LGBTQ+ all year round, so be nice if they could display one of our little posters all year round!
You can read more about Tesco and its support for LGBTQ here:-
www.tescoplc.com/tesco-to-donate-almost-100-000-to-mark-pride/
If you see other local shops embracing Pride month, we would love to promote them here, especially if they support our community all year round!
Send your pics to us at [email protected]
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A Giant C**k up! (posted here 03/06/2023 updated 08/06/2023)
The media (and us!) are enjoying writing headlines about this cheesy Dorset v Oxford story without trying to offend anyone, while embracing British humour!
The media (and us!) are enjoying writing headlines about this cheesy Dorset v Oxford story without trying to offend anyone, while embracing British humour!
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You may have heard that an Oxford Cheese company has pinched Dorsets famous phallus man to adorn their cheese packaging. Did they miss the point? (Ha ha).This has resulted in some err ... stiff opposition from some Dorset residents and media. The BBC said - "An Oxfordshire cheese company has been using his image to sell their Cerne Abbas cheddar - minus his most arresting feature... Steve Harris speaks to Vic Irvine, owner of the Cerne Abbas Brewery, which uses the giant in all its glory on its branding" Hear the interview with Steve Harris on BBC Dorset Breakfast here - www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0frx6j0 |
While the Dorset Echo came up (errm!) with the word "castrates" in its headline.
Dorset Echo see - /www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23562157.cheese-company-castrates-dorsets-cerne-abbas-giant/
Dorset Live ran with a headline saying - "Bemused brewer hits out at cheese firm censoring Cerne Giant's glory
There had been some “stiff opposition” against the censored branding"
More see - https://www.dorset.live/news/dorset-news/bemused-brewer-hits-out-cheese-8492344
Our friends at The West Dorset Magazine headlined with "Giant cover up over cheese package" and reported that "Cheesed-off residents say the Cerne Abbas Giant has been "castrated" and made "non-binary" on a dairy company's labeling." See- https://westdorsetmag.co.uk/editions/edition-29-2/
Some history ....
The Giant of Cern Abbas is carved into the chalk downs near the village bearing (bare - ing!) the name. Some say he is estimated to be 2000 years old and represents the Celtic God of hunting and fertility. He is a big boy with the phallus measuring 30 feet in length. On May Day his glory points to the rising sun, and villagers would achieve their carnal desires on his manhood to ensure the village was populated by future generations.
Little known facts are that he was covered up during the war to stop him being used as a landmark by the German luftwaffe. He was also the logo for "Dorset Knobs" (before we changed our name) when Weymouth Gay Group first started over 15 years ago! The Dorset Knob beer is often available at our groups pub meetups, and is enjoyed by many. If you visit the village, dont forget to check out the pub - "The Giant Inn" - https://www.thegiantcerneabbas.co.uk/ and get your Giant souvenirs and postcards while you are there, with or without an appendage! Cheese also being optional.
Dorset Echo see - /www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23562157.cheese-company-castrates-dorsets-cerne-abbas-giant/
Dorset Live ran with a headline saying - "Bemused brewer hits out at cheese firm censoring Cerne Giant's glory
There had been some “stiff opposition” against the censored branding"
More see - https://www.dorset.live/news/dorset-news/bemused-brewer-hits-out-cheese-8492344
Our friends at The West Dorset Magazine headlined with "Giant cover up over cheese package" and reported that "Cheesed-off residents say the Cerne Abbas Giant has been "castrated" and made "non-binary" on a dairy company's labeling." See- https://westdorsetmag.co.uk/editions/edition-29-2/
Some history ....
The Giant of Cern Abbas is carved into the chalk downs near the village bearing (bare - ing!) the name. Some say he is estimated to be 2000 years old and represents the Celtic God of hunting and fertility. He is a big boy with the phallus measuring 30 feet in length. On May Day his glory points to the rising sun, and villagers would achieve their carnal desires on his manhood to ensure the village was populated by future generations.
Little known facts are that he was covered up during the war to stop him being used as a landmark by the German luftwaffe. He was also the logo for "Dorset Knobs" (before we changed our name) when Weymouth Gay Group first started over 15 years ago! The Dorset Knob beer is often available at our groups pub meetups, and is enjoyed by many. If you visit the village, dont forget to check out the pub - "The Giant Inn" - https://www.thegiantcerneabbas.co.uk/ and get your Giant souvenirs and postcards while you are there, with or without an appendage! Cheese also being optional.
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Dorset brothers book gets:- Highly Commended award (posted here 27/05/2023)
Brothers Manni & Reuben Coe have got a book award!
Brothers Manni & Reuben Coe have got a book award!
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We heard about them first here - on a BBC World Service Radio programme in the middle of the night - well, we could not sleep while listening to it. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/w3ct34pn
Update on our report:- At the book awards on 15th May their book won the Highly Commended award. Both Manni & Reuben continue to be featured in National newspapers, and on Radio & TV programmes. If you read nothing else this year - please check out this book, the radio programmes, and audio book (coming soon). This is such a beautiful uplifting true story, with Dorset connections - Burton Bradstock & North Dorset. Manni & partener Jack in Spain perhaps may well have visited our group if they came to Weymouth, but it was Reuben's text to his brother that changed their lives and brought Manni to Dorset. "Reuben, aged 38, was living in a home for adults with learning disabilities. He hadn’t established an independent life in the care system and was still struggling to accept that he had Down’s (Up!) syndrome. Depressed and in a fog of antidepressants, he hadn’t spoken for over a year". |
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BBC - https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001md5c
**Note** We have a copy of this brilliant book to LOAN out to guys at our Weymouth Gay Group.
If you care about someone who is struggling in life, you will find compassion, frustration, and hopefully support here.
An essential read!
Links:-
Get your copy here -
https://www.littletoller.co.uk/shop/books/little-toller/brother-do-you-love-me-by-manni-coe-and-reuben-coe/
Twitter https://twitter.com/mannicoewrites?lang=en and https://twitter.com/LittleToller
Website:-
https://mannicoe.com/brother-do-you-love-me/
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**Note** We have a copy of this brilliant book to LOAN out to guys at our Weymouth Gay Group.
If you care about someone who is struggling in life, you will find compassion, frustration, and hopefully support here.
An essential read!
Links:-
Get your copy here -
https://www.littletoller.co.uk/shop/books/little-toller/brother-do-you-love-me-by-manni-coe-and-reuben-coe/
Twitter https://twitter.com/mannicoewrites?lang=en and https://twitter.com/LittleToller
Website:-
https://mannicoe.com/brother-do-you-love-me/
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WGG Beer Mats arrive! (posted here 25/05/203)
Yippy! We are so happy to say that our NEW Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) beer mats have arrived! Just in time for Pub Pride and Pride month (June). It's a spot on promotion for our group which meets up twice a week in Weymouth Pubs & Restaurants. The colorful mats will also be used at the many Pride and other Dorset events that the group attends. Pop along to our pub meet ups to get yours! |
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Dorchester launches LGBTQIA safe spaces (posted here 25/05/2023)
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A new campaign to help make Dorchester a safe place for LGBTQIA+ people is underway with posters in shop windows. The poster left, with a QR code to scan, links to a variety of resources, events, groups (incl Weymouth Gay Group) and sources of help and assistance. Also included are safe toilet facilities for Gender Diverse people. It's a project promoted by the Dorchester Town Council, Dorset Council, Shire Hall, Space Youth Project and Discover Dorchester. We hope to bring you more info about this excellent project soon. |
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You can see the contents of the QR code here: - https://discoverdorchester.co.uk/your-visit/lgbtqia-resources/
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Pride Parade along Weymouth’s Esplanade! (posted here 20/05/2023 updated 23/05/2023)
Weymouth is set to get its first official Pride march along it’s esplanade, an event not to miss!
Weymouth is set to get its first official Pride march along it’s esplanade, an event not to miss!
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Chesil Youth Pride said: -The first ever Chesil Youth Pride is being held on Saturday 17th June 2023, hosted by Dorset Council, Weymouth College, Space Youth Project, The Drop-In (Portland) and Dorset Police. Chesil Youth Pride 2023 is a celebration of our LGBTQ+ young people and we are welcoming all in the local community to come and join us! The College will be hosting a variety of LGBT stalls and entertainment form 1pm. The Parade starts at 4.30pm from the College and goes via Lodmoor and right along the sea front to The Pavilion. It has always been a dream of the local LGBT Community to have a Pride Parade along the sea front, so it’s brilliant that it is at last happening! While the event is focused on supporting young people, everyone is invited to attend at the college, and watch the parade. Wave your rainbow flags in solidarity! Weymouth Gay Group are hoping to join in the celebrations, more info at our pub meet ups. |
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Links:-
If you have any enquiries, please contact [email protected].
eventbrite:- https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/chesil-youth-pride-2023-tickets-638030354
Dorset Echo:- "Six Pride events to be hoasted across Dorset in 2023"
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23536691.weymouth-pride-parade-one-events-planned-2023/
NOTE -
For info about all SIX DORSET Prides see below & our page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html
For info on almost 80 Dorset LGBT events in May & June see - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
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If you have any enquiries, please contact [email protected].
eventbrite:- https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/chesil-youth-pride-2023-tickets-638030354
Dorset Echo:- "Six Pride events to be hoasted across Dorset in 2023"
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23536691.weymouth-pride-parade-one-events-planned-2023/
NOTE -
For info about all SIX DORSET Prides see below & our page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html
For info on almost 80 Dorset LGBT events in May & June see - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
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Dorset Youth Pride returns to Shire Hall Museum, Dorchester (posted here 18/05/2023)
Extract from Dorset Echo. You can read the full story here- www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23528014.dorset-youth-pride-returns-shire-hall-museum-dorchester/
Preparations are being made for an inclusive event where young people can celebrate their identities.
Dorset Youth Pride returns to Shire Hall Museum in Dorchester on Saturday, June 10. Now in its second year, it is an event for all members of the LGBT+ community and supporters. The museum is opening for free from 10am-4pm on the day and visitors will have the opportunity to take part in a range of activities.
Nina Corey, Director at Shire Hall Museum, said: “We’re so excited to be hosting Dorset Youth Pride again. As a social justice museum, we’re proud to support and champion all members of the LGBT+ community.
The museum has partnered with organisations across the county to deliver this inclusive event. Dorset Youth Pride will feature stalls from Space Youth Project, Pop’n’Olly, Dorset Youth Voice, Weymouth Gay Group, This is Me and Dorset Police. The Young Historians Group from the Keep Military Museum will showcase their display, ‘Queer Was Always Here’, exploring LGBT+ figures throughout history.
Dorset Youth Pride has been made possible thanks to support from RiskSTOP Group, which is sponsoring the event for the second year.
Danny Lillington, Managing Director at RiskSTOP Group said: "It is a wonderful initiative that deserves our support. By creating a safe and inclusive space for young people to celebrate their identities, this event promotes diversity, inclusion, and acceptance. It provides a valuable opportunity for LGBTQ+ youth to connect with each other, share their experiences, and feel proud of who they are. Moreover, by holding the event at a museum, it also offers a chance for participants to learn about the history of LGBTQ+ rights and activism. Overall, Dorset Youth Pride is an important step towards building a more accepting and inclusive society."
For more information visit shirehalldorset.org
Extract from Dorset Echo. You can read the full story here- www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23528014.dorset-youth-pride-returns-shire-hall-museum-dorchester/
Note:-
You can see pics from last year, and read about the day on our Pride page here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/dorchester-pride.html
Weymouth Gay Group will be one of several groups with a stall there, so do pop along and say "Hi!"
Links:-
website - https://shirehalldorset.org/events/dorset-youth-pride
Twitter :- https://twitter.com/ShireHallDorset
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Extract from Dorset Echo. You can read the full story here- www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23528014.dorset-youth-pride-returns-shire-hall-museum-dorchester/
Preparations are being made for an inclusive event where young people can celebrate their identities.
Dorset Youth Pride returns to Shire Hall Museum in Dorchester on Saturday, June 10. Now in its second year, it is an event for all members of the LGBT+ community and supporters. The museum is opening for free from 10am-4pm on the day and visitors will have the opportunity to take part in a range of activities.
Nina Corey, Director at Shire Hall Museum, said: “We’re so excited to be hosting Dorset Youth Pride again. As a social justice museum, we’re proud to support and champion all members of the LGBT+ community.
The museum has partnered with organisations across the county to deliver this inclusive event. Dorset Youth Pride will feature stalls from Space Youth Project, Pop’n’Olly, Dorset Youth Voice, Weymouth Gay Group, This is Me and Dorset Police. The Young Historians Group from the Keep Military Museum will showcase their display, ‘Queer Was Always Here’, exploring LGBT+ figures throughout history.
Dorset Youth Pride has been made possible thanks to support from RiskSTOP Group, which is sponsoring the event for the second year.
Danny Lillington, Managing Director at RiskSTOP Group said: "It is a wonderful initiative that deserves our support. By creating a safe and inclusive space for young people to celebrate their identities, this event promotes diversity, inclusion, and acceptance. It provides a valuable opportunity for LGBTQ+ youth to connect with each other, share their experiences, and feel proud of who they are. Moreover, by holding the event at a museum, it also offers a chance for participants to learn about the history of LGBTQ+ rights and activism. Overall, Dorset Youth Pride is an important step towards building a more accepting and inclusive society."
For more information visit shirehalldorset.org
Extract from Dorset Echo. You can read the full story here- www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23528014.dorset-youth-pride-returns-shire-hall-museum-dorchester/
Note:-
You can see pics from last year, and read about the day on our Pride page here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/dorchester-pride.html
Weymouth Gay Group will be one of several groups with a stall there, so do pop along and say "Hi!"
Links:-
website - https://shirehalldorset.org/events/dorset-youth-pride
Twitter :- https://twitter.com/ShireHallDorset
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Dorset Mind launch new website - in MH week - with more LGBTQ+ support
(posted here 15/05/2023)
(posted here 15/05/2023)
Dorset Mind who are champions in supporting everyone's mental health have lauched a new website at the start of Mental Health week (15th - 21st May).
The new site has more LGBTQ+ info and support, details of the MindOut support group (in Bournemouth), feedback from service users, a short helpful video about what to expect and the topics the group covers. Another helpful section covers LGBTQ+ resources.
The only - perhaps quite an important thing - we could not find - was any referance to other Dorset based LGBT+ groups and support.
In the past Dorset Mind ran a Pan Dorset "MindOut" group which used to meet up in Weymouth, and then moved online during covid. Weymouth Gay Group hope that this may return in the future in some format.
You can see the new website LGBTQ+ page here:-
see - https://dorsetmind.uk/what-we-offer/adult-services/adult-groups/mind-out-lgbtq/
You can read about it here - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23521098.dorset-mind-launches-new-mental-health-help-website/
and here - https://www.dorsetbiznews.co.uk/dorset-mind-launches-new-website-reunites-with-the-dolphin-for-mental-health-awareness-week/
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Pub Pride May 26th - Weymouth, Dorchester, & Swanage! (posted here 06/05/2023, updated 15/05/2023)
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We are very pleased to report that there will be THREE Pub Prides in Dorset this year!
The annual celebration welcomes in Pride month, and is run nationally by Ask for Clive and takes place on or around Friday May 26th. On twitter "Ask For Clive" said: - AskForClive @clive_ask It's nearly time for the biggest event of the year! That'a right, just three weeks to go until Pub Pride 23! We have 300 venues right across Great Britain ready to go! Flags and Bunting in our 2023 theme colour of Purple being delivered this week. You can find a venue near you here: https://rb.gy/86efp" We hope to have more info about the three Dorset Pub Prides below here soon. We have written to them asking for details about how they are celebrating. |
This brings the number of Pride events this year in Dorset to a HUGE record number of SIX ! WOW!
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The Dorset venues are: - Weymouth - Wyke Smugglers 76 Portland Road, Weymouth, DT4 9AB Phone 01305 760010 Dorchester - Hardy's Trinity Street, Dorchester, DT1 1TU Phone 01305 269183 Swanage - The Globe 3 Bell Street, Swanage, BH19 2RY Phone 01929 423515 Please contact the venues above for details of their Pub Pride events. We have sent all the above venus an info pack about Weymouth Gay Group, and offered to help promote their Pub Pride. |
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Send us your Dorset Photos of Pub Pride if you like. We would love to have your photos to use here.
Links:-
Ask For Clive website - https://askforclive.com/pub-pride-2023
Ask For Clive twitter - https://twitter.com/clive_ask
Report & pics from last year's wonderful Pub Pride in Weymouth :-
see- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/weymouth-pub-pride.htm
Links:-
Ask For Clive website - https://askforclive.com/pub-pride-2023
Ask For Clive twitter - https://twitter.com/clive_ask
Report & pics from last year's wonderful Pub Pride in Weymouth :-
see- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/weymouth-pub-pride.htm
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UPDATED - (06/05/2023) The full list of the SIX Dorset Pride events for 2023 May 26th Pub Pride Weymouth Wyke Smugglers May 26th Pub Pride Dorchester Hardy's May 26th Pub Pride Swanage The Globe June 10th Dorset Youth Pride, Shire Hall Dorchester June 17th Chesil Pride, Weymouth College July 7/8 BourneFree Bournemouth Need more info? See - weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html or email us at [email protected] |
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Weymouth Gay Group -
make the Spoons News! (posted here 04/05/2023) We are delighted to say that we - Weymouth Gay Group - will be featuring in the Wetherspoons news magazine! Wow! Published in August, the magazine will have a photo and report about how we have been meeting up in Weymouth pubs for 15 years, and enjoying the towns two "Spoons". You will have to wait until then to see it, but we are so pleased with the positive comments from the Swan pub management about our group and the interest & support from Wetherspoons. A recent post on twitter Today, my wife and I ducked into #Wetherspoons in Acton to get out of the rain and grab some lunch. One of the other customers called us "a pair of freaks", another thought we were "lesbians", while another man called me a "poof". Least safe in a pub I have felt for some time :( Our reply- Sorry to read this. If you are ever in #Weymouth #Dorset join us in our 2 #wetherspoons - no probs here for our #LGBT group to meet up in. Soon you can read about us in spoons mag too! Brill how they employ #LGBT staff! Embracing diversity - not just with drinks! This had 34 "likes" on twitter! - and lots of retweets |
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Patrick Gale Sherborne Library. Reading workshop & in conversation (posted here 04/05/2023)
Thursday May 25th
Workshop 3.30pm- 4.30pm. In conversation 7pm-8pm in person & online.
Patrick Gale was born on the Isle of Wight in 1962. He studied at Winchester College and New College, Oxford. In 1988 he moved to Cornwall where he lives with his husband, the farmer and sculptor, Aidan Hicks, on their farm at Land’s End. In 2017 his Man in an Orange Shirt was screened by BBC2 as part of the Gay Britannia season, which also featured the documentary All Families Have Secrets – the Narrative Art of Patrick Gale. Continuing to be broadcast regularly around the world, it won an International Emmy for best miniseries.
About Mother’s Boy, Tinder Press, 2022
'A tender, evocative retelling of the life of the poet Charles Causley . . . Patrick Gale's descriptions of the power of ordinary things in two very different lives make Mother's Boy a moving biographical tribute' ― Times Literary Supplement.
Workshop 3.30pm- 4.30pm. In conversation 7pm-8pm in person & online.
Patrick Gale was born on the Isle of Wight in 1962. He studied at Winchester College and New College, Oxford. In 1988 he moved to Cornwall where he lives with his husband, the farmer and sculptor, Aidan Hicks, on their farm at Land’s End. In 2017 his Man in an Orange Shirt was screened by BBC2 as part of the Gay Britannia season, which also featured the documentary All Families Have Secrets – the Narrative Art of Patrick Gale. Continuing to be broadcast regularly around the world, it won an International Emmy for best miniseries.
About Mother’s Boy, Tinder Press, 2022
'A tender, evocative retelling of the life of the poet Charles Causley . . . Patrick Gale's descriptions of the power of ordinary things in two very different lives make Mother's Boy a moving biographical tribute' ― Times Literary Supplement.
Presented by World Live in Libraries
Link & info - www.ticketsource.co.uk/south-western-regional-library-services-cio?utm_source=Twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=Orlo
and - https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/find-your-local-library/dorset-libraries/-/ddl_display/ddl/3636034/432965/maximized
Sherborne Library. Digby Hall Hound Street Sherborne Dorset DT9 3AA 01935 812683. [email protected]
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Link & info - www.ticketsource.co.uk/south-western-regional-library-services-cio?utm_source=Twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=Orlo
and - https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries-history-culture/libraries/find-your-local-library/dorset-libraries/-/ddl_display/ddl/3636034/432965/maximized
Sherborne Library. Digby Hall Hound Street Sherborne Dorset DT9 3AA 01935 812683. [email protected]
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Shire Hall - home to Dorset Youth Pride - Celebrates 5th birthday (posted here 04/05/023)
Extract from Dorset Biz News
Read the full story here - .dorsetbiznews.co.uk/shire-hall-museum/
Tamsin Little, Communications & Fundraising Manager, talks about the museum: “There’s all sorts of stories of people who came through Shire Hall. We don’t have huge collections but we do have this building and those stories. Those stories are still as relevant today, of society and justice, as the times of the trials.
Tamsin added: “We do a lot of work with the young LGBT+ community too and last year we organised the first Dorest Youth Pride. We looked at the Pride events here and didn’t see a lot of options for young people in Dorset. We didn’t see it; so we held it. “We had hundreds of teenagers in our building. It was a celebration and a joyous day but it was also about learning our history.
All the time Shire Hall was a court room, homosexuality was illegal. “It’s an opportunity for young people to come along and learn about the past and carry that information to today in pushing for change. “We talk about social justice and it’s not just words, we try to put our actions behind it as well.”
Dorset Youth Pride is back at Shire Hall Museum for 2023, as an inclusive event welcoming all members of the LGBT+ community, families, young people and allies. Shire Hall will be hosting Space Youth Project, Pop ‘n’ Olly, The Keep Military Museum, Weymouth Gay Group, This is Me, Dorset Youth Voice, Budmouth College and Vinyl Van on Saturday 10th June.
Extract above from Dorset Biz News - Read the full story here - .dorsetbiznews.co.uk/shire-hall-museum/
Read the full story here - .dorsetbiznews.co.uk/shire-hall-museum/
Tamsin Little, Communications & Fundraising Manager, talks about the museum: “There’s all sorts of stories of people who came through Shire Hall. We don’t have huge collections but we do have this building and those stories. Those stories are still as relevant today, of society and justice, as the times of the trials.
Tamsin added: “We do a lot of work with the young LGBT+ community too and last year we organised the first Dorest Youth Pride. We looked at the Pride events here and didn’t see a lot of options for young people in Dorset. We didn’t see it; so we held it. “We had hundreds of teenagers in our building. It was a celebration and a joyous day but it was also about learning our history.
All the time Shire Hall was a court room, homosexuality was illegal. “It’s an opportunity for young people to come along and learn about the past and carry that information to today in pushing for change. “We talk about social justice and it’s not just words, we try to put our actions behind it as well.”
Dorset Youth Pride is back at Shire Hall Museum for 2023, as an inclusive event welcoming all members of the LGBT+ community, families, young people and allies. Shire Hall will be hosting Space Youth Project, Pop ‘n’ Olly, The Keep Military Museum, Weymouth Gay Group, This is Me, Dorset Youth Voice, Budmouth College and Vinyl Van on Saturday 10th June.
Extract above from Dorset Biz News - Read the full story here - .dorsetbiznews.co.uk/shire-hall-museum/
Links
Shire Hall website - Dorset Youth Pride - https://shirehalldorset.org/events/dorset-youth-pride
Shire Hall Twitter - https://twitter.com/ShireHallDorset
Dorset Biz News website - https://www.dorsetbiznews.co.uk/
Dorset Biz News Twitter - https://twitter.com/dorsetbiznews
Photo on right -
Olympian Tom Daley was seen on 16th Feb 2022 in Dorchester on his fundraising journey from London to Plymouth.
Shire Hall in Dorchester captured the moment with a great photo with their LGBT flags showing.
Photo on right by Shire Hall shows Tom Daily and Shire Hall.
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Shire Hall website - Dorset Youth Pride - https://shirehalldorset.org/events/dorset-youth-pride
Shire Hall Twitter - https://twitter.com/ShireHallDorset
Dorset Biz News website - https://www.dorsetbiznews.co.uk/
Dorset Biz News Twitter - https://twitter.com/dorsetbiznews
Photo on right -
Olympian Tom Daley was seen on 16th Feb 2022 in Dorchester on his fundraising journey from London to Plymouth.
Shire Hall in Dorchester captured the moment with a great photo with their LGBT flags showing.
Photo on right by Shire Hall shows Tom Daily and Shire Hall.
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The LGBT+ Voices Dorset Forum (posted here 04/05/2023)
Copy below with thanks to Space Youth Project (newsletter May 2023).
The LGBT+ Voices Dorset Forum are seeking new members, you can check out their social media, and join via the links below. Weymouth Gay Group are looking for a volunteer to represent us on the Forum, ideally you will be a regular attendee at our pub meetups. Interested? Let us know!
Copy below with thanks to Space Youth Project (newsletter May 2023).
The LGBT+ Voices Dorset Forum are seeking new members, you can check out their social media, and join via the links below. Weymouth Gay Group are looking for a volunteer to represent us on the Forum, ideally you will be a regular attendee at our pub meetups. Interested? Let us know!
LGBT+ Voices Dorset Forum
To join click here - https://forms.office.com/r/YB2fPJfkN1
Twitter - https://twitter.com/DorsetLGBTVoice
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LGBTVoicesDorsetForum
To join click here - https://forms.office.com/r/YB2fPJfkN1
Twitter - https://twitter.com/DorsetLGBTVoice
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LGBTVoicesDorsetForum
Space Youth Project (SYP) Newsletters
SYP produces these every month and they are a great way for young (and young at heart) people to keep upto date with news and events.
They can be accessed via the SYP website - https://www.spaceyouthproject.co.uk/
SYP produces these every month and they are a great way for young (and young at heart) people to keep upto date with news and events.
They can be accessed via the SYP website - https://www.spaceyouthproject.co.uk/
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"This is Me Dorset" - New website (posted here 27/04/2023)
The "This is Me" Transgender / crossdresing and gender diverse .group in the Weymouth and Bridport area have announced that their website has changed it's name.
Anabelle said "Our website name has changed to www.thisismedorset.co.uk please give it a couple of days before looking at it as it can take 48hrs for the change over to happen"
"This is me" - is an informal evening for all transgender, tv's, cd's, tg's and gender diverse people, their friends & allies, every Tuesday 7pm. NOTE please contact Annabelle as venue may have changed. Update: - 12/01/2023 - Anabelle on social media said:- "Right everybody from next Tuesday (Jan 17th 2023) until further notice Tuesday meetings (This is Me) in Weymouth will be held at The Royal Oak, Dorchester Road, Weymouth from 7pm to 9pm."
You can find out more by having a friendly confidential chat with Anabelle 074114 65007 email [email protected]
They meet up every Tuesday in Weymouth
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The "This is Me" Transgender / crossdresing and gender diverse .group in the Weymouth and Bridport area have announced that their website has changed it's name.
Anabelle said "Our website name has changed to www.thisismedorset.co.uk please give it a couple of days before looking at it as it can take 48hrs for the change over to happen"
"This is me" - is an informal evening for all transgender, tv's, cd's, tg's and gender diverse people, their friends & allies, every Tuesday 7pm. NOTE please contact Annabelle as venue may have changed. Update: - 12/01/2023 - Anabelle on social media said:- "Right everybody from next Tuesday (Jan 17th 2023) until further notice Tuesday meetings (This is Me) in Weymouth will be held at The Royal Oak, Dorchester Road, Weymouth from 7pm to 9pm."
You can find out more by having a friendly confidential chat with Anabelle 074114 65007 email [email protected]
They meet up every Tuesday in Weymouth
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"Alex / Alice Bendall: Body in Dorchester river believed to be missing teenager"
(posted here 24/04/2023)
Very sad news to report from Dorset Police 24th April :-
A body sadly found in a river in Dorchester is believed to be that of missing Alex Bendall, although formal ID has not yet taken place. The family requests privacy at this time. For further information please click this link. https://news.dorset.police.uk/news-article/6cea48b5-ebe1-ed11-9d55-6045bdd24049
Reports are also on the BBC:- https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-65368824
A body found in a river is believed to be that of a teenager who has been missing for more than two months. Alex Bendall, 18, also known as Alice, was reported missing from Dorchester, Dorset, on 12 February. Dorset Police said a body was found in the river Frome in the area of Lubbecke Way in the town on Saturday afternoon. "The death is not being treated as suspicious and HM Coroner has been notified," a spokeswoman said in a statement. "The family of Alex has been informed of the development and officers are giving support," she added. "The family requests privacy at this time."
Dorset Echo:- Alex Bendall: Body found in river believed to be missing teen
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23474955.alex-bendall-body-found-river-believed-missing-teen/
In a twitter post The Dorset LGBT Voices Forum said:-
LGBT+ Voices Dorset Forum @DorsetLGBTVoice 34m
This is so very sad. Our thoughts go out to all those who loved Alex. Anyone experiencing distress and needing to talk can contact Connections Dorset on 0300 1235440 Or TEXT "SHOUT" to 85058
The Weymouth Gay Group helplines & support page can be seen here: -
https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
(posted here 24/04/2023)
Very sad news to report from Dorset Police 24th April :-
A body sadly found in a river in Dorchester is believed to be that of missing Alex Bendall, although formal ID has not yet taken place. The family requests privacy at this time. For further information please click this link. https://news.dorset.police.uk/news-article/6cea48b5-ebe1-ed11-9d55-6045bdd24049
Reports are also on the BBC:- https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-65368824
A body found in a river is believed to be that of a teenager who has been missing for more than two months. Alex Bendall, 18, also known as Alice, was reported missing from Dorchester, Dorset, on 12 February. Dorset Police said a body was found in the river Frome in the area of Lubbecke Way in the town on Saturday afternoon. "The death is not being treated as suspicious and HM Coroner has been notified," a spokeswoman said in a statement. "The family of Alex has been informed of the development and officers are giving support," she added. "The family requests privacy at this time."
Dorset Echo:- Alex Bendall: Body found in river believed to be missing teen
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23474955.alex-bendall-body-found-river-believed-missing-teen/
In a twitter post The Dorset LGBT Voices Forum said:-
LGBT+ Voices Dorset Forum @DorsetLGBTVoice 34m
This is so very sad. Our thoughts go out to all those who loved Alex. Anyone experiencing distress and needing to talk can contact Connections Dorset on 0300 1235440 Or TEXT "SHOUT" to 85058
The Weymouth Gay Group helplines & support page can be seen here: -
https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
On twitter Space Youth Project @SpaceDorset said:-
Help is available via qualified youth workers at our LGBT+ youth groups or via the link in our bio.
* Shout 85258 is free & anonymous. Text SHOUT to 85258
* Call Samaritans free on 116 123
* Childline for under 19s on 0800 11 11
* Switchboard LGBT+ helpline is on 0300 330 0630
https://www.spaceyouthproject.co.uk/
Tributes paid to Dorchester teen after tragic death - see - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23487703.tributes-paid-dorchester-teen-alex-bendall-tragic-death/
Dead naming / reporting media
What are your views about this?
This is one of many issues Weymouth Gay Group guys will be discussing around our table in The Swan this Thursday (27 April). You are welcome to join us to express your views /advice. .(or pop along next week).
Dead naming / reporting media
What are your views about this?
This is one of many issues Weymouth Gay Group guys will be discussing around our table in The Swan this Thursday (27 April). You are welcome to join us to express your views /advice. .(or pop along next week).
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Weymouth Pride 2024 ? (posted here 18/04/2024)
It was a lovely surprise to see a new profile on twitter recently. "Weymouth Pride 2024"
Very little is known about this Pride presently as our enquiry to them has not been answered yet.
So, will Weymouth have a NEW Pride event in 2024? Hopefully we will know before too long, and then we can post info here.
Link:- Twitter https://twitter.com/weymouth_pride
UPDATED -
Note - Dorset has SIX Pride events this year 2023,
May 26th Pub Pride. Weymouth, Dorchester & Swanage
Weymouth - Wyke Smugglers
Dorchester - Hardy's
Swanage - The Globe
June 10th Dorset Youth Pride, Shire Hall Dorchester.
June 17th Chesil Pride Weymouth College.
July 7/8 BourneFree Bournemouth.
More info about Dorset Prides on our Pride pages here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html
It was a lovely surprise to see a new profile on twitter recently. "Weymouth Pride 2024"
Very little is known about this Pride presently as our enquiry to them has not been answered yet.
So, will Weymouth have a NEW Pride event in 2024? Hopefully we will know before too long, and then we can post info here.
Link:- Twitter https://twitter.com/weymouth_pride
UPDATED -
Note - Dorset has SIX Pride events this year 2023,
May 26th Pub Pride. Weymouth, Dorchester & Swanage
Weymouth - Wyke Smugglers
Dorchester - Hardy's
Swanage - The Globe
June 10th Dorset Youth Pride, Shire Hall Dorchester.
June 17th Chesil Pride Weymouth College.
July 7/8 BourneFree Bournemouth.
More info about Dorset Prides on our Pride pages here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html
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Santander Weymouth - "We are proud to support Pride" (posted here 17/04/2023)
We love how Weymouth's branch of Santander has welcomed Pride month early!
Just visit their ATM and this is what greets you .....
We love how Weymouth's branch of Santander has welcomed Pride month early!
Just visit their ATM and this is what greets you .....
One criticism of some corporate groups is how they "Rainbow" their profile for just Pride month and show (or do) little else for the rest of the year. So this is most welcomed in April.
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Brother. Do. You. Love. Me. (posted here17.04.2023 updated 16/05/2023
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Update:-
At the book awards on 15th May their book won the Highly Commended award. Both Manni & Reuben continue to be featured in National newspapers, and on Radio & TV programmes. If you do nothing else this year - check out this book, radio programe, and audio book (coming soon). The book is up for an award! This is such a beautiful uplifting true story, with Dorset connections, it's difficult to know where to start. We heard about it first here - on a BBC World Service Radio programme in the middle of the night - well, we could not sleep while listening to it. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/w3ct34pn Manni & partener Jack in Spain perhaps may well have visited our group if they came to Weymouth, but it was Reuben's text to his brother that changed their lives and brough Manni to Dorset. "Reuben, aged 38, was living in a home for adults with learning disabilities. He hadn’t established an independent life in the care system and was still struggling to accept that he had Down’s syndrome. Depressed and in a fog of anti-depressants, he hadn’t spoken for over a year. |
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The only way he expressed himself was by writing poems or drawing felt-tip scenes from his favourite West End musicals and Hollywood films. Increasingly isolated, cut off from everyone and everything he loved, Reuben sent a text message: ‘brother. do. you. love. me.’
When Manni received this desperate message from his youngest brother, he knew everything had to change. He immediately left his life in Spain and returned to England, moving Reuben out of the care home and into an old farm cottage in the countryside (in Dorset). In the stillness of winter, they began an extraordinary journey of repair, rediscovering the depths of their brotherhood, one gradual step at a time.
Combining Manni’s tender words with Reuben’s powerful illustrations, their story of hope and resilience questions how we care for those we love, and demands that, through troubled times, we learn how to take better care of each other."
More info - and to get your book see - https://www.littletoller.co.uk/shop/books/little-toller/brother-do-you-love-me-by-manni-coe-and-reuben-coe/
Manni Coe twitter https://twitter.com/ManniCoeWrites
Manni Coe website https://mannicoe.com/
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When Manni received this desperate message from his youngest brother, he knew everything had to change. He immediately left his life in Spain and returned to England, moving Reuben out of the care home and into an old farm cottage in the countryside (in Dorset). In the stillness of winter, they began an extraordinary journey of repair, rediscovering the depths of their brotherhood, one gradual step at a time.
Combining Manni’s tender words with Reuben’s powerful illustrations, their story of hope and resilience questions how we care for those we love, and demands that, through troubled times, we learn how to take better care of each other."
More info - and to get your book see - https://www.littletoller.co.uk/shop/books/little-toller/brother-do-you-love-me-by-manni-coe-and-reuben-coe/
Manni Coe twitter https://twitter.com/ManniCoeWrites
Manni Coe website https://mannicoe.com/
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SWR launches UK’s first Intersex-Inclusive Pride train (posted here 28/03/2023)
Extract from South Western Railway News. You can read the full report here:-
https://www.southwesternrailway.com/other/news-and-media/news/2023/march/swr-launches-uks-first-intersex-inclusive-pride-train
Extract from South Western Railway News. You can read the full report here:-
https://www.southwesternrailway.com/other/news-and-media/news/2023/march/swr-launches-uks-first-intersex-inclusive-pride-train
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South Western Railway (SWR) has today (27/03/2023) launched the UK's first ever Intersex-Inclusive Pride train to show support for and solidarity with it's LGBTQIA+ customers and colleagues and the community at large.
The train can be seen running on the Weymouth to London Waterloo line. |
Photo credit - South Western Railways
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- South Western Railway is the first operator to use the Intersex-Inclusive Pride flag on one of its trains
- The Class 444 train operates on the South West Main Line between London Waterloo and Weymouth
- The design was revealed at London Waterloo by SWR’s Managing Director, Claire Mann, and Chief Operating Officer, Stuart Meek, alongside the flag’s creator, Valentino Vecchietti
- On its first run with the new design, the train was crewed exclusively by LGBTQIA+ SWR colleagues
The new livery was applied to a Class 444 train at the Bournemouth Depot over the weekend and enters service from today. On its first run, the newly designed train was crewed exclusively by LGBTQIA+ SWR colleagues.
Observers will be able to spot the newly decorated train flying the flag on the busy South West Main Line between London Waterloo and Weymouth, travelling through Greater London, Surrey, Hampshire, and Dorset.
Bryce Hunt, Weymouth Station Manager and Chair of South Western Railway’s Pride Network, commented:
“Being proud of who you are is the opportunity to be openly expressive, loving, and honest. Our commitment to our colleagues and customers is that they can be unafraid of their true self and be met with understanding and support. Our Pride Network has released this new livery which shows our full commitment to the communities we serve internally and externally.”
Valentino Vecchietti, creator of the Intersex-Inclusive Pride flag and founder of Intersex Equality Rights UK, commented:
“The Intersex-Inclusive Pride train means so much to the LGBTQIA+ community and to our families, friends, and allies. I created intersex visibility on our global Pride flag to bring joy to my community, and also to raise awareness that intersex people in the UK and worldwide are typically not included in census data collection, equality protections or hate crime legislation.
“The umbrella term ‘intersex’ describes the natural diversity in sex characteristics. Sex characteristics are distinct from gender identity and sexual orientation but are all connected through the sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics (SOGIESC) human rights framework, which is reflected in the new flag.”
See also - Dorset Echo (28/03/2023) https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23415847.south-western-railway-launches-first-intersex-inclusive-train/
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We now have over 2,500 followers on twitter! (posted here 25/03/2023)
Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) have just reached a milestone on the social network twitter, with over 2.5K followers!
While it may not be everyones fav social network, it is great that our Dorset based group is reaching out beyond our seaside town.
We always say the best social network is in the PUB! Join us twice a week.
Twitter is a great way of keeping up to date with our group and Dorset LGBT community events and news. Join us there.
twitter https://twitter.com/WeymouthGayGrp
website https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com
Weymouth Gay Group (WGG) have just reached a milestone on the social network twitter, with over 2.5K followers!
While it may not be everyones fav social network, it is great that our Dorset based group is reaching out beyond our seaside town.
We always say the best social network is in the PUB! Join us twice a week.
Twitter is a great way of keeping up to date with our group and Dorset LGBT community events and news. Join us there.
twitter https://twitter.com/WeymouthGayGrp
website https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com
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Homophobic graffiti sprayed at Dorchester skatepark (posted here 15/03/2023)
Extract from Dorset Echo. Read the full report with photo here:-
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23386367.homophobic-graffiti-sprayed-dorchester-skatepark/
Dorchester Mayor Janet Hewitt has called homophobic graffiti sprayed in the town's skate park "appalling".
The graffiti was seen by Dorchester local Ben Reidy who had been skateboarding there yesterday.
The graffiti on one of the ramps of the Weymouth Avenue skatepark - which is opposite the police station - says "**** LgBTQ".
And went on to say:-
Ben posted a picture of the graffiti to a local Facebook group with a message which wrote: "Very saddened to see this at Dorchester skatepark. For me, the park is a safe space for all kinds of people. This does not represent our community in a good light. I hope that the police can do something about this."
Cllr Janet Hewitt, Mayor of Dorchester, said: "It is very sad that someone has done a thing like that, I think it is very hurtful. "I am upset, people should know better and we should know not to demoralise others or discriminate against others. "It is appalling, it is not the kind of thing we want in our town."
The article ended:-
A spokesperson from the Weymouth Gay Group said: "Negative views expressed like this about any part of society are unwelcome and unwanted. Sadly it is nothing new and has also migrated to the online world too."
"Many of us are striving for a much kinder world, of acceptance, respect and understanding, through embracing diversity and equality."
You can read the full Dorset Echo report with photo here :-
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23386367.homophobic-graffiti-sprayed-dorchester-skatepark/
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Extract from Dorset Echo. Read the full report with photo here:-
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23386367.homophobic-graffiti-sprayed-dorchester-skatepark/
Dorchester Mayor Janet Hewitt has called homophobic graffiti sprayed in the town's skate park "appalling".
The graffiti was seen by Dorchester local Ben Reidy who had been skateboarding there yesterday.
The graffiti on one of the ramps of the Weymouth Avenue skatepark - which is opposite the police station - says "**** LgBTQ".
And went on to say:-
Ben posted a picture of the graffiti to a local Facebook group with a message which wrote: "Very saddened to see this at Dorchester skatepark. For me, the park is a safe space for all kinds of people. This does not represent our community in a good light. I hope that the police can do something about this."
Cllr Janet Hewitt, Mayor of Dorchester, said: "It is very sad that someone has done a thing like that, I think it is very hurtful. "I am upset, people should know better and we should know not to demoralise others or discriminate against others. "It is appalling, it is not the kind of thing we want in our town."
The article ended:-
A spokesperson from the Weymouth Gay Group said: "Negative views expressed like this about any part of society are unwelcome and unwanted. Sadly it is nothing new and has also migrated to the online world too."
"Many of us are striving for a much kinder world, of acceptance, respect and understanding, through embracing diversity and equality."
You can read the full Dorset Echo report with photo here :-
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23386367.homophobic-graffiti-sprayed-dorchester-skatepark/
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Bridport LGBT - Closed! (posted here 11/03/203)
The Bridport LGBT group also known recently as "This is Me Bridport" has closed.
On social media they said:-
"I am sorry to say the Bridport group has closed. This is due to couple of reasons 1 no body coming to the group. And also due to Steve Mears standing back from Weymouth Group (She means "This is Me in Weymouth", NOT Weymouth Gay Group) and has asked us to take over the running of the group which will happen over the next few weeks. Anybody from the Bridport area are more than welcome to join us on a Tuesday evening from 7pm to 9pm at The Royal Oak, Dorchester Road, Weymouth. This venue is far bigger than our previous venue though it is still part of the same group who took over our old venue (The Waterloo Pub) recently."
More details from Anabelle - 074114 65007 email [email protected]
Comment:- It is always a shame when a local group closes due to lack of support. This group has gone through a lot of changes / rebranding over recent years and perhaps could have benefited from someone with marketing and promotion skills along with a commitment and free time to help promote it.
Please note:- "This is Me Weymouth'' (for transgender/ NB/ crossdressers etc) is a very different group from us - Weymouth Gay Group. While we are happy to help promote them, it is regrettable that there has been some confusion, and we hope organisers of "This is Me Weymouth'' will help by making this clear for everyone in the future.
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The Bridport LGBT group also known recently as "This is Me Bridport" has closed.
On social media they said:-
"I am sorry to say the Bridport group has closed. This is due to couple of reasons 1 no body coming to the group. And also due to Steve Mears standing back from Weymouth Group (She means "This is Me in Weymouth", NOT Weymouth Gay Group) and has asked us to take over the running of the group which will happen over the next few weeks. Anybody from the Bridport area are more than welcome to join us on a Tuesday evening from 7pm to 9pm at The Royal Oak, Dorchester Road, Weymouth. This venue is far bigger than our previous venue though it is still part of the same group who took over our old venue (The Waterloo Pub) recently."
More details from Anabelle - 074114 65007 email [email protected]
Comment:- It is always a shame when a local group closes due to lack of support. This group has gone through a lot of changes / rebranding over recent years and perhaps could have benefited from someone with marketing and promotion skills along with a commitment and free time to help promote it.
Please note:- "This is Me Weymouth'' (for transgender/ NB/ crossdressers etc) is a very different group from us - Weymouth Gay Group. While we are happy to help promote them, it is regrettable that there has been some confusion, and we hope organisers of "This is Me Weymouth'' will help by making this clear for everyone in the future.
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Weymouth Gay Group on Instagram (posted here 11/03/2023)
With many thanks to Adam who is one of the younger members of Weymouth Gay Group we now have an Instagram account.
You can follow us on Instagram here - www.instagram.com/weymouthgaygroup/?igshid=ZDdkNTZiNTM%3D
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With many thanks to Adam who is one of the younger members of Weymouth Gay Group we now have an Instagram account.
You can follow us on Instagram here - www.instagram.com/weymouthgaygroup/?igshid=ZDdkNTZiNTM%3D
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Drag artists in the Bournemouth LGBTQ+ community and partner attacked
(Posted here 07/02/2023, update with Bournemouth Echo link 11/03/2023 updated with 1803/2023)
Gay man beaten by youths in homophobic attack in Bournemouth
“You wouldn’t have a straight couple attacked for holding hands"
Dorset Echo 11/03/2023 - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23379236.gay-man-beaten-youths-homophobic-attack-bournemouth/
Bournemouth Echo 11/03/2023 - https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/23373066.gay-man-beaten-youths-homophobic-attack-bournemouth/
Man sought following homophobic assault (18/03/2023)
Officers continuing to investigate a homophobic aggravated assault in Bournemouth town centre are issuing CCTV images of a man they would like to speak to. Dorset Eye:- https://dorseteye.com/man-sought-following-homophobic-assault/
Below is from twitter (07/02/2023) :-
Drag Queen Story Hour UK® @DragStoryHourUK
1/6 THREAD: On Monday 6th March a beloved drag artists in the Bournemouth LGBTQ+ community and their partner were attacked in the street whilst holding hands. It is sickening that in 2023 people are STILL subjected to violence and hate simply because of their sexual orientation.
2/6 What makes this incident all the more shocking is that the attackers targeted the drag artist who was recently recovering from a dislocated knee. These thugs not only pushed him to the ground and hit him, but also threatened to put him in a wheelchair for life.
3/6 Sadly, this attack is not an isolated incident. Hate crimes based on sexual orientation have been on the rise in the UK for years. According to a report by the Home Office, hate crimes based on sexual orientation increased by 19% in 2021 alone.
4/6 The rise in hate crimes is a direct result of the hate-filled rhetoric coming from those in positions of power, who have repeatedly validated LGBTQ+ hate by pushing their own hateful and prejudiced agendas. We cannot allow this violence to continue.
5/6 Our hearts go out to the drag artist and their partner who were subjected to this appalling attack. We demand that the government takes immediate and decisive action to protect the LGBTQ+ community and put an end to hate crimes. We demand change now.
6/6 The partner has said that they both "fear for the lives" to leave the house following the attack. If anyone feels like they are in immediate danger, please call 999.
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(Posted here 07/02/2023, update with Bournemouth Echo link 11/03/2023 updated with 1803/2023)
Gay man beaten by youths in homophobic attack in Bournemouth
“You wouldn’t have a straight couple attacked for holding hands"
Dorset Echo 11/03/2023 - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23379236.gay-man-beaten-youths-homophobic-attack-bournemouth/
Bournemouth Echo 11/03/2023 - https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/23373066.gay-man-beaten-youths-homophobic-attack-bournemouth/
Man sought following homophobic assault (18/03/2023)
Officers continuing to investigate a homophobic aggravated assault in Bournemouth town centre are issuing CCTV images of a man they would like to speak to. Dorset Eye:- https://dorseteye.com/man-sought-following-homophobic-assault/
Below is from twitter (07/02/2023) :-
Drag Queen Story Hour UK® @DragStoryHourUK
1/6 THREAD: On Monday 6th March a beloved drag artists in the Bournemouth LGBTQ+ community and their partner were attacked in the street whilst holding hands. It is sickening that in 2023 people are STILL subjected to violence and hate simply because of their sexual orientation.
2/6 What makes this incident all the more shocking is that the attackers targeted the drag artist who was recently recovering from a dislocated knee. These thugs not only pushed him to the ground and hit him, but also threatened to put him in a wheelchair for life.
3/6 Sadly, this attack is not an isolated incident. Hate crimes based on sexual orientation have been on the rise in the UK for years. According to a report by the Home Office, hate crimes based on sexual orientation increased by 19% in 2021 alone.
4/6 The rise in hate crimes is a direct result of the hate-filled rhetoric coming from those in positions of power, who have repeatedly validated LGBTQ+ hate by pushing their own hateful and prejudiced agendas. We cannot allow this violence to continue.
5/6 Our hearts go out to the drag artist and their partner who were subjected to this appalling attack. We demand that the government takes immediate and decisive action to protect the LGBTQ+ community and put an end to hate crimes. We demand change now.
6/6 The partner has said that they both "fear for the lives" to leave the house following the attack. If anyone feels like they are in immediate danger, please call 999.
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LGBT Consortium:- "Weymouth Gay Group celebrates 15 years!" (posted here 06/03/2023)
Copy below from The LGBT Consortium website community page.
See - https://www.consortium.lgbt/2023/03/02/weymouth-gay-group-celebrates-15-years/
So, what do you do if you move into a town and feel like you are the “Only Gay in the village?”
This was the thought of one of the founders (C) of Weymouth Gay Group, 15 years ago. Today you might be tempted to try the numerus dating and social apps, but they were not so prominent back then.
So said C, “I decided to sit in a corner of a pub every week and enjoy a real ale, with the thought that if only one guy turns up to join me that’s a bonus! After spreading a few leaflets around town slowly the numbers attending increased.”
He added “At one time we had over 30 LGBT people regularly attending, with guys traveling from Dorchester, North Dorset and even Somerset to join us. Our numbers are also boosted during the summer with LGBT tourists visiting the area.
“We now meet up twice a week, Thursdays the group meets up in The Swan Weymouth from 8pm, and our Monday meetups have developed into “Meals Out on Mondays". An opportunity to eat out at the many restaurants that our seaside town offers. This is a way of enjoying quality food and company! The summer months are enjoyed with beach BBQs, and trips to Pride events.
“It’s great to see a new shy person blossom over time, and form lifelong friendships and even relationships in our group. We know we have guided many over the years in their personal life journey.”
The second area of our group that has developed over recent years is our outreach through our website and connections with a range of other organisations and groups, to the Dorset LGBT community and beyond.
We are very pleased that our website has been called “The LGBT Bible locally” by the NHS. We have a lot of info there, 25 – 30 Dorset LGBT events each month, local LGBT community news (70+ stories last year), plus our helplines page. During 2022 we produced a poster promoting our helplines page and sent this to all the local Doctors surgeries and other NHS outlets. This has been very well received having one website page devoted to helplines and support groups for LGBT people. It also helps with some of the enquires we get every year, while we offer friendship, we are not a support group, but we are happy to sign post to a range of local, regional and national organisations.
On social media our twitter account has around 2,500 followers, and is, like our website, a brilliant way of keeping up to date with news and info for those who may not find it easy to attend our pub meetups.
We are a member of a number of umbrella LGBT groups including The LGBT Consortium, Dorset LGBT Voices Forum, LGBT Network for Change. We also help to promote groups like The Gay OutDoor Club, GLUG (Scuba diving LGBT group) and many more that have events in our area, on our Events Diary listings as well as on twitter.
That we are still filling a very valuable role for our local LGBT community (both in a pub, and online) is truly amazing after 15 years and is something to celebrate, you are welcomed to join in with us too!
Have you ever felt like you are “the only Gay in the village?” If so, why not try what we have done! Brill to know that we have helped to inspire Taunton Gay Group and others who model their groups on us.
“Real Ale & Real Friends!”
What is the LGBT consortium? On their website they say:- We are a national specialist infrastructure and membership organisation. We work to build the resource, sustainability and resilience of LGBT+ groups, organisations and projects so that they can deliver direct services and campaign for individual rights.
More see - https://www.consortium.lgbt/about-us/
Weymouth Gay Group is a member of the LGBT Consortium
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Copy below from The LGBT Consortium website community page.
See - https://www.consortium.lgbt/2023/03/02/weymouth-gay-group-celebrates-15-years/
So, what do you do if you move into a town and feel like you are the “Only Gay in the village?”
This was the thought of one of the founders (C) of Weymouth Gay Group, 15 years ago. Today you might be tempted to try the numerus dating and social apps, but they were not so prominent back then.
So said C, “I decided to sit in a corner of a pub every week and enjoy a real ale, with the thought that if only one guy turns up to join me that’s a bonus! After spreading a few leaflets around town slowly the numbers attending increased.”
He added “At one time we had over 30 LGBT people regularly attending, with guys traveling from Dorchester, North Dorset and even Somerset to join us. Our numbers are also boosted during the summer with LGBT tourists visiting the area.
“We now meet up twice a week, Thursdays the group meets up in The Swan Weymouth from 8pm, and our Monday meetups have developed into “Meals Out on Mondays". An opportunity to eat out at the many restaurants that our seaside town offers. This is a way of enjoying quality food and company! The summer months are enjoyed with beach BBQs, and trips to Pride events.
“It’s great to see a new shy person blossom over time, and form lifelong friendships and even relationships in our group. We know we have guided many over the years in their personal life journey.”
The second area of our group that has developed over recent years is our outreach through our website and connections with a range of other organisations and groups, to the Dorset LGBT community and beyond.
We are very pleased that our website has been called “The LGBT Bible locally” by the NHS. We have a lot of info there, 25 – 30 Dorset LGBT events each month, local LGBT community news (70+ stories last year), plus our helplines page. During 2022 we produced a poster promoting our helplines page and sent this to all the local Doctors surgeries and other NHS outlets. This has been very well received having one website page devoted to helplines and support groups for LGBT people. It also helps with some of the enquires we get every year, while we offer friendship, we are not a support group, but we are happy to sign post to a range of local, regional and national organisations.
On social media our twitter account has around 2,500 followers, and is, like our website, a brilliant way of keeping up to date with news and info for those who may not find it easy to attend our pub meetups.
We are a member of a number of umbrella LGBT groups including The LGBT Consortium, Dorset LGBT Voices Forum, LGBT Network for Change. We also help to promote groups like The Gay OutDoor Club, GLUG (Scuba diving LGBT group) and many more that have events in our area, on our Events Diary listings as well as on twitter.
That we are still filling a very valuable role for our local LGBT community (both in a pub, and online) is truly amazing after 15 years and is something to celebrate, you are welcomed to join in with us too!
Have you ever felt like you are “the only Gay in the village?” If so, why not try what we have done! Brill to know that we have helped to inspire Taunton Gay Group and others who model their groups on us.
“Real Ale & Real Friends!”
What is the LGBT consortium? On their website they say:- We are a national specialist infrastructure and membership organisation. We work to build the resource, sustainability and resilience of LGBT+ groups, organisations and projects so that they can deliver direct services and campaign for individual rights.
More see - https://www.consortium.lgbt/about-us/
Weymouth Gay Group is a member of the LGBT Consortium
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Gay Community Coffee Mornings & Sunday Roast Dinners
(posted here 06/03/2023 updated 07/03/2023)
Our friend Paul at The Geranium Trust, based at Stoford near Yeovil recently said:- We have now decided to re-start the monthly 'Gay Community Coffee Mornings'. The Coffee mornings will be held on the 2nd Saturday in the month from 11 - 3 pm. We will provide tea, coffee, hot soup and rolls and cake.
We have also decided that from now on the 'Roast Dinner' for Gay & Bi guys, will ALWAYS be held on the last Sunday of every month. We do ask for a small donation to cover the cost of the food.
He added:- The Geranium Trust is here to offer friendship and support to anyone regardless of age, faith, ethnicity, status or sexual orientation who is living with bereavement, loneliness or feeling isolated. We also offer our support to the family, friends and carers of those suffering from chronic or mental illness. We care!
More info about the brilliant work of The Geranium Trust see - https://www.geraniumtrust.org You can contact Paul, for more details, via this email [email protected]
Weymouth Gay Group will list these dates on our Events Diary page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
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UK Pride dates - & the FOUR Dorset Prides for 2023! (posted here 25/02/2023)
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Here is the first release of the annual Pride poster listing all the UK Prides. Well almost all! More will be added including all the Dorset Prides! https://twitter.com/prideukorg
The FOUR Dorset Prides for 2023 are:- Weymouth Pub Pride Weymouth venue tbc On or around 26th May organised nationally by "Ask For Clive" https://askforclive.com/pub-pride-2023 In 2022 this took place at The Waterloo Pub Weymouth, which now has new management. Venue for 2023 tbc. Dorset Youth Pride Returns for its second year at Shire Hall Dorchester on Saturday June 10th. https://shirehalldorset.org/events/dorset-youth-pride Chesil Youth Pride This NEW Pride will be taking place at Weymouth College on Saturday June 17th. Possible parade too! More info soon. Bournemouth - "BourneFree" Meyrick Park Bournemouth. Dorset's biggest LGBT event of the year. July 7 & 8th. New website - https://www.bournefree.co.uk/ |
Click on above poster to enlarge.
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More Dorset Pride info on our Pride pages. See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html
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"Weymouth Gay Group marks 15 years" (posted here 22/02/2023) - Dorset Echo report
See - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23334241.weymouth-gay-group-marks-15-years/
See - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23334241.weymouth-gay-group-marks-15-years/
Weymouth Gay Group have marked their 15th year (Image: Weymouth Gay Group)
A social group for local gay men and their friends is celebrating 15 years of meeting up.
February is LGBTQ+ history month and the Weymouth Gay Group is celebrating 15 years of social gatherings, good times, friendships and even relationships.
A spokesperson said: “There are two aspects to our group, our twice-weekly pub meets and our outreach to the LGBT community in Dorset and beyond.
"Our guys have a wide range of interests, backgrounds and ages. This helps ease in new people into our group as someone is bound to have a similar or same interest around our tables.
“It’s great to see a new shy person blossom over time and form lifelong friendships and even relationships in our group.”
At one time the group had over 30 LGBT people regularly attending, with people travelling from Dorchester, North Dorset and even Somerset. Additionally, during the summer the group's numbers are boosted by LGBT tourists visiting the area.
The group meets twice weekly at table 26 at the Swan in Weymouth on Thursdays from 8pm, and ‘Meals Out on Mondays’ where the group eats out at the many restaurants that our seaside town offers. The summer months are enjoyed with beach BBQs, and trips to Pride events.
A second aspect of the group is the website. It includes 25-30 LGBT events each month, local LGBT news and a page of helplines.
The spokesperson continued: “We are very pleased that our website has been called ‘The LGBT Bible locally’ by the NHS. “During 2022 we produced a poster promoting our helplines page and sent this to all the local Doctors’ surgeries and other NHS outlets, which has been very well received. “It also helps with some of the enquiries we get every year, while we offer friendship, we are not a support group, but we are happy to signpost to a range of local, regional and national organisations.
“We will be celebrating our 15th anniversary this year, especially in LGBT history month, February, and Pride month, June, and you are welcome to join us.”
Find out more on weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com
THANKS to all our guys who took part in photos, and to Echo reporter Cristano who visited our group and has done a nice write up! See - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23334241.weymouth-gay-group-marks-15-years/
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A social group for local gay men and their friends is celebrating 15 years of meeting up.
February is LGBTQ+ history month and the Weymouth Gay Group is celebrating 15 years of social gatherings, good times, friendships and even relationships.
A spokesperson said: “There are two aspects to our group, our twice-weekly pub meets and our outreach to the LGBT community in Dorset and beyond.
"Our guys have a wide range of interests, backgrounds and ages. This helps ease in new people into our group as someone is bound to have a similar or same interest around our tables.
“It’s great to see a new shy person blossom over time and form lifelong friendships and even relationships in our group.”
At one time the group had over 30 LGBT people regularly attending, with people travelling from Dorchester, North Dorset and even Somerset. Additionally, during the summer the group's numbers are boosted by LGBT tourists visiting the area.
The group meets twice weekly at table 26 at the Swan in Weymouth on Thursdays from 8pm, and ‘Meals Out on Mondays’ where the group eats out at the many restaurants that our seaside town offers. The summer months are enjoyed with beach BBQs, and trips to Pride events.
A second aspect of the group is the website. It includes 25-30 LGBT events each month, local LGBT news and a page of helplines.
The spokesperson continued: “We are very pleased that our website has been called ‘The LGBT Bible locally’ by the NHS. “During 2022 we produced a poster promoting our helplines page and sent this to all the local Doctors’ surgeries and other NHS outlets, which has been very well received. “It also helps with some of the enquiries we get every year, while we offer friendship, we are not a support group, but we are happy to signpost to a range of local, regional and national organisations.
“We will be celebrating our 15th anniversary this year, especially in LGBT history month, February, and Pride month, June, and you are welcome to join us.”
Find out more on weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com
THANKS to all our guys who took part in photos, and to Echo reporter Cristano who visited our group and has done a nice write up! See - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23334241.weymouth-gay-group-marks-15-years/
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Weymouth Brianna Ghey Vigil (posted here 18/02/2023, updated with photos 20/02/2023))
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The soothing sounds of the waves accompanied by gentle music from Charity's PA system, along with lots of Transgender and Rainbow flags greeted over 100 people as they paid respects to Brianna Ghey.
The vigil held on Weymouth's Esplanade by the Jubilee Clock was one of many around the UK and beyond. So touching, and tearful to hear from the many young transgendered people who spoke to the assembled crowd. They clearly identified with Brianna about struggles in her and their own lives. Colin, from Weymouth Gay Group who supported the vigil, said :- "One very touching moment this evening, which I will never forget, during the 2 mins silence for Brianna - was the PRIDE BUS driving by! It was almost as though it was meant to be.... as though it was taking on board Brianna (in spirit) on her journey to wherever. A safe place that we all dream of, where bullying, discrimination, bigotry, and hate crime are all history. (February is LGBT History Month). A world where kindness, acceptance, and understanding of others not only rules ok, but is encouraged & embraced by all across society, including the media!" This should NOT just be a dream! |
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Solidarity - The PRIDE BUS passing by
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Huge thanks to Charity for agreeing to organise such an essential event for our Weymouth LGBT+ community, it has touched the hearts of many, not just those who attended.
"Why can't we just live our lives?" Vigil held in memory of murdered trans teenager (posted here 19/02/2023)
Extract from Dorset Echo 19/02/2023. You can read the full report here - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23331874.weymouth-candlelight-vigil-held-memory-murdered-trans-teenager/
The vigil was also backed by the Weymouth Gay Group, which encouraged people to "bring a candle and a friend'.
Speaking after the event, Charity said it was crucial to make a stand in light of Brianna's murder, which has caused shockwaves up and down the country. "It went as well as something like that can do," she explained. "People were sad, people were sombre, and there were quite a lot that were willing to come forward and say their piece. "Their focus was showing that they were there and were supporting.
"There was also some anger voiced by some people because of the fact that trans lives are up for debate.
"Why can't we just live our lives? What happened to live and let live?"
Charity added that there was 'a lot more emotion than anger' at the Weymouth vigil, with some heartfelt speeches made. "There was a lady, I didn't catch her name, who was disabled and had written a poem and I think a lot of people had tears in their eyes," she said.
Charity said last week that someone needed to 'stand up and decide' whether to hold a vigil and she felt it was 'definitely the thing to do'. "In general across the country trans people are feeling even more unsafe after a 16-year-old girl was murdered," she added.
"It was very imprtant to stand up and be seen, and be seen to be supportive, and I am glad so many people turned out."
Following the vigil, the Weymouth Gay Group said the event had 'lit a candle in a dark place' and 'encouraged so many others to shine'.
Extract from Dorset Echo 19/02/2023. You can read the full report here - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23331874.weymouth-candlelight-vigil-held-memory-murdered-trans-teenager/
The vigil was also backed by the Weymouth Gay Group, which encouraged people to "bring a candle and a friend'.
Speaking after the event, Charity said it was crucial to make a stand in light of Brianna's murder, which has caused shockwaves up and down the country. "It went as well as something like that can do," she explained. "People were sad, people were sombre, and there were quite a lot that were willing to come forward and say their piece. "Their focus was showing that they were there and were supporting.
"There was also some anger voiced by some people because of the fact that trans lives are up for debate.
"Why can't we just live our lives? What happened to live and let live?"
Charity added that there was 'a lot more emotion than anger' at the Weymouth vigil, with some heartfelt speeches made. "There was a lady, I didn't catch her name, who was disabled and had written a poem and I think a lot of people had tears in their eyes," she said.
Charity said last week that someone needed to 'stand up and decide' whether to hold a vigil and she felt it was 'definitely the thing to do'. "In general across the country trans people are feeling even more unsafe after a 16-year-old girl was murdered," she added.
"It was very imprtant to stand up and be seen, and be seen to be supportive, and I am glad so many people turned out."
Following the vigil, the Weymouth Gay Group said the event had 'lit a candle in a dark place' and 'encouraged so many others to shine'.
Bournemouth Vigil for Brianna Ghey - report from event.
See:- https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/23332276.brianna-ghey-hundreds-attend-vigil-bournemouth/
Bridport Vigil, Saturday 25th Feb. Details see:- https://www.bridportnews.co.uk/news/23339766.vigil-brianna-ghey-west-bay-weekend/
Online Vigil for Brianna Ghey
Saturday 25th February 7pm YouTube . com / @transactivismuk Organised with @TransActualUK and the help of many amazing folks within our community
See:- https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/23332276.brianna-ghey-hundreds-attend-vigil-bournemouth/
Bridport Vigil, Saturday 25th Feb. Details see:- https://www.bridportnews.co.uk/news/23339766.vigil-brianna-ghey-west-bay-weekend/
Online Vigil for Brianna Ghey
Saturday 25th February 7pm YouTube . com / @transactivismuk Organised with @TransActualUK and the help of many amazing folks within our community
Brianna Ghey Vigil - In Weymouth SATURDAY 18th (posted here 15/02/2023)
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This WILL be taking place ON SATURDAY 18th Feb at WEYMOUTH ESPLANADE TOWN CLOCK tower 6pm. This official event has been approved by Weymouth Town Council following the tragic loss of Brianna. It is organised by our Transgender friend Charity, who many of you know through her work with Space Youth Project, and her local radio show from a few years back. Everyone is invited to attend, as well as bringing a candle and a friend, bring your Rainbow and Transgender flags too! Please help spread the word, and come along and support the vigil if you can. Enquiries email [email protected] Further reading:- Pink News https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/02/15/brianna-ghey-vigils-liverpool-bristol/ Dorset Echo report 18/02/2023 with comments by organiser Charity Gardiner - https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23325970.weymouth-host-candlelight-vigil-brianna-ghey/ |
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Dorset Live, report:- "Brianna Ghey killing: Dorset's trans youth feel under 'attack' after horrific death of Tik Tok star" With very good comments by Helen CEO Space Youth Project Dorset.
See - https://www.dorset.live/news/dorset-news/brianna-ghey-killing-dorsets-trans-8150215
See - https://www.dorset.live/news/dorset-news/brianna-ghey-killing-dorsets-trans-8150215
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Bournemouth vigil Sunday 19th In Bournemouth a vigil is being organised by the MCC Church and Bourne Free taking place on Sunday 19th outside Flert Cafe in Bournemouth's Triangle. |
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Helplines and support groups - If you need some support, comfort, or just feel the need to chat with someone who understands, there are a number of helplines and support groups listed on our helplines page.
See our website page here - weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
New images issued in search for missing teenager near Dorchester (posted here 21/02/20230
Officers are issuing new images and renewing their appeal for information as they continue to search for a missing teenager near Dorchester.
Alex Bendall, who is also known as Alice and is 18 years old, was reported missing at around 3pm on Sunday 12 February 2023. Following CCTV enquiries, the last known sighting has been confirmed as being at 7.41pm on Saturday 11 February 2023 in Cornwall Road, Dorchester.
Alex is described as five feet six inches tall, of slim build, with short brown hair and they were last seen wearing a green Puffa-style body warmer, a black hooded jumper, dark coloured jeans, Dr. Martens boots with a green lace in one boot and purple lace in the other, a bracelet over the cuff on the right arm and carrying a small backpack.
Anyone with information or knowledge as to Alex’s whereabouts is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting incident number 12:319.
Full Dorset Police report with photos see - https://www.dorset.police.uk/news/article/d8a4a705-5db0-ed11-9d53-6045bdd24049
See our website page here - weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
New images issued in search for missing teenager near Dorchester (posted here 21/02/20230
Officers are issuing new images and renewing their appeal for information as they continue to search for a missing teenager near Dorchester.
Alex Bendall, who is also known as Alice and is 18 years old, was reported missing at around 3pm on Sunday 12 February 2023. Following CCTV enquiries, the last known sighting has been confirmed as being at 7.41pm on Saturday 11 February 2023 in Cornwall Road, Dorchester.
Alex is described as five feet six inches tall, of slim build, with short brown hair and they were last seen wearing a green Puffa-style body warmer, a black hooded jumper, dark coloured jeans, Dr. Martens boots with a green lace in one boot and purple lace in the other, a bracelet over the cuff on the right arm and carrying a small backpack.
Anyone with information or knowledge as to Alex’s whereabouts is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting incident number 12:319.
Full Dorset Police report with photos see - https://www.dorset.police.uk/news/article/d8a4a705-5db0-ed11-9d53-6045bdd24049
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Dorchester: woman arrested after throwing items from LGBT+ stand (posted here 17/02/2023)
Dorset Echo 17/02/2023 https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23328303.dorchester-woman-arrested-throwing-items-lgbt-stand/
Below copy from Dorset Police. https://www.dorset.police.uk/news/article/33d3338e-aaae-ed11-9d53-6045bdd24049
Officers investigating an alleged public order incident in Dorchester are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
At approximately 3pm on Friday 10 February 2023 it was reported that a woman threw items from an LGBT+ stand in the foyer of Dorchester Library and Learning Centre in Charles Street and removed a flag. It is also alleged that she shouted at members of the public and made hateful comments to a boy.
A 34-year-old woman from Dorchester was arrested on suspicion of causing racially or religiously aggravated criminal damage, racially or religiously aggravated public order and theft. She has been released on police bail while enquiries continue.
Police Constable Josh Hurwood, of Dorchester police, said: “I would like to appeal to any witnesses who were in the library and have not already spoken to police to please come forward.
“Also, I am particularly keen to speak to the young boy who was reportedly approached by the woman as he may have important information to help our enquiries.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55230022109. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.
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Dorset Echo 17/02/2023 https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23328303.dorchester-woman-arrested-throwing-items-lgbt-stand/
Below copy from Dorset Police. https://www.dorset.police.uk/news/article/33d3338e-aaae-ed11-9d53-6045bdd24049
Officers investigating an alleged public order incident in Dorchester are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
At approximately 3pm on Friday 10 February 2023 it was reported that a woman threw items from an LGBT+ stand in the foyer of Dorchester Library and Learning Centre in Charles Street and removed a flag. It is also alleged that she shouted at members of the public and made hateful comments to a boy.
A 34-year-old woman from Dorchester was arrested on suspicion of causing racially or religiously aggravated criminal damage, racially or religiously aggravated public order and theft. She has been released on police bail while enquiries continue.
Police Constable Josh Hurwood, of Dorchester police, said: “I would like to appeal to any witnesses who were in the library and have not already spoken to police to please come forward.
“Also, I am particularly keen to speak to the young boy who was reportedly approached by the woman as he may have important information to help our enquiries.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55230022109. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.
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Prides in Dorset - 3, 4, or even 5 in 2023! (posted here 11/02/2023) copy from our Pride page
So ...if you like Pride events.... are you ready for this? Dorset could have a record 4, possibly 5 Pride events during 2023! Wow!
Regular Dorset Prides include BourneFree (Bournemouth Pride), Dorset's biggest annual LGBT event (with a brill new website too! See https://www.bournefree.co.uk/), a welcomed return of Dorchesters Dorset Youth Pride at Shire Hall following the huge success from last year. Hopefully another Weymouth (Pub) Pride which was wonderful last year. Perhaps also two more Pride events, so stay tuned for info!
If you like Pride events, why not volunteer to help out at one? They can't run with out lots of help and support from our community, and it can be loads of fun helping out too!
More on our Pride pages see - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html
Copy from BF website:- Bourne Free was originally set up in 2004 when a far right organisation was due to come to Bournemouth and preach that homosexuality was wrong. Many prominent figures and active members of the gay communities in the area came together to organise an event in the Lower Gardens to protect the gay communities from the bigots and keep them together for a day of celebration, rather than of hostility.
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So ...if you like Pride events.... are you ready for this? Dorset could have a record 4, possibly 5 Pride events during 2023! Wow!
Regular Dorset Prides include BourneFree (Bournemouth Pride), Dorset's biggest annual LGBT event (with a brill new website too! See https://www.bournefree.co.uk/), a welcomed return of Dorchesters Dorset Youth Pride at Shire Hall following the huge success from last year. Hopefully another Weymouth (Pub) Pride which was wonderful last year. Perhaps also two more Pride events, so stay tuned for info!
If you like Pride events, why not volunteer to help out at one? They can't run with out lots of help and support from our community, and it can be loads of fun helping out too!
More on our Pride pages see - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/pride-events.html
Copy from BF website:- Bourne Free was originally set up in 2004 when a far right organisation was due to come to Bournemouth and preach that homosexuality was wrong. Many prominent figures and active members of the gay communities in the area came together to organise an event in the Lower Gardens to protect the gay communities from the bigots and keep them together for a day of celebration, rather than of hostility.
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West Dorset Magazine - two pages of WGG! (posted here 08/02/2023) We are thrilled to see our Weymouth Gay Group on two pages (40 & 41) in the latest West Dorset Magazine. Pick up your copy at many local supermarkets, or check it out online at - https://westdorsetmag.co.uk/editions/edition-25/ In Weymouth West Dorset Magazine should be available at:- Asda, Newstead Rd, Weymouth DT4 8JQ Morrison’s, Dorchester Rd, Weymouth DT3 5JA Sainsbury’s, Mercery Rd, Weymouth DT3 5HJ Lidl 148 Dorchester Rd, Weymouth DT3 5EF CO-OP, Chickerell Road, Weymouth DT4 9TP The Weymouth Information Shop (WIS), 98 St Mary’s Street, Weymouth, DT4 8NY For loads of other outlets in Dorset see ;- westdorsetmag.co.uk/stockists/ |
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Dorch Docs LGBT display (posted here 08/02/2023)
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It's great to see a LGBT display at your local library or even GP surgery for LGBT History Month. We were very pleased when we saw this one.
It is at the Atrium Health Centre 7 Weymouth Avenue, Dorchester Dorset, DT1 1QR, and has brought a smile to many faces. We thank our Jonai (NHS) for sending this photo to us. Have you seen an LGBT display, or rainbow flags around Dorset during LGBT History Month? If so we would love to use your pics. email [email protected] |
Photo with thanks to Jonai De Silva (Dorset NHS)
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One in 20 people in Dorset aged under 35 identify as LGB+ (posted here 04/02/2023)
Extracts from Dorset Echo 03/04/2023
Read the full story here:- www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23292374.one-20-people-dorset-aged-35-identify-lgb/
One in 20 people in Dorset aged under 35 years old identify with an LGB+ sexual orientation, new census figures show.
Stonewall said the latest census breakdown shows that with each passing generation, more people feel safer to come out as LGBT+ and live as their true selves. The census data shows 1,835 people aged between 16 and 24 years old in Dorset said they identified with a sexuality other than heterosexual when the census took place in March 2021, alongside 1,695 aged 25 to 34. It means about 5.4% of those aged under 35 in Dorset said they identified with an LGB+ sexuality.
Additionally, the data shows females in Dorset were more likely to identify with a minority sexuality – with 4,010 saying they were not straight compared to 3,080 males. The census also asked people, for the first time, about their gender identity. In Dorset, 895 (0.3%) people said they did not identify with the gender assigned to them at birth.
Stonewall said: "Following the initial data showing over 1.5 million lesbian, gay and bi people living in England and Wales, we now see that younger generations feel safer to be themselves. Each generation reports more lesbian, gay and bi people than the last – but that doesn’t necessarily mean there are now simply more of us. It suggests that older generations were not always safe or free to speak about their experiences, or lacked the language to describe them."
The charity added the data is a reminder to leaders, institutions and governments to champion the LGBT+ community.
Read the full Dorset Echo story here:-www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23292374.one-20-people-dorset-aged-35-identify-lgb/
Scroll down towards the end of this page to see the detailed Census results for Dorset and parts of Weymouth, with links for further reading.
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Extracts from Dorset Echo 03/04/2023
Read the full story here:- www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23292374.one-20-people-dorset-aged-35-identify-lgb/
One in 20 people in Dorset aged under 35 years old identify with an LGB+ sexual orientation, new census figures show.
Stonewall said the latest census breakdown shows that with each passing generation, more people feel safer to come out as LGBT+ and live as their true selves. The census data shows 1,835 people aged between 16 and 24 years old in Dorset said they identified with a sexuality other than heterosexual when the census took place in March 2021, alongside 1,695 aged 25 to 34. It means about 5.4% of those aged under 35 in Dorset said they identified with an LGB+ sexuality.
Additionally, the data shows females in Dorset were more likely to identify with a minority sexuality – with 4,010 saying they were not straight compared to 3,080 males. The census also asked people, for the first time, about their gender identity. In Dorset, 895 (0.3%) people said they did not identify with the gender assigned to them at birth.
Stonewall said: "Following the initial data showing over 1.5 million lesbian, gay and bi people living in England and Wales, we now see that younger generations feel safer to be themselves. Each generation reports more lesbian, gay and bi people than the last – but that doesn’t necessarily mean there are now simply more of us. It suggests that older generations were not always safe or free to speak about their experiences, or lacked the language to describe them."
The charity added the data is a reminder to leaders, institutions and governments to champion the LGBT+ community.
Read the full Dorset Echo story here:-www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23292374.one-20-people-dorset-aged-35-identify-lgb/
Scroll down towards the end of this page to see the detailed Census results for Dorset and parts of Weymouth, with links for further reading.
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Weymouth Library LGBT History Month display (posted here 02/02/2023)
It is great that Weymouth Library has again put on a display of LGBT books for LGBT History month.
They also have a wonderful display from Space Youth Project too. So on your next trip into town, why not go and check it out! Weymouth Library. Great George St, Weymouth DT4 8NN
It is great that Weymouth Library has again put on a display of LGBT books for LGBT History month.
They also have a wonderful display from Space Youth Project too. So on your next trip into town, why not go and check it out! Weymouth Library. Great George St, Weymouth DT4 8NN
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New Gay Bar arrives in Weymouth - but it is not what you think! (posted here 02/02/2023)
A new Gay Bar, along with several others have arrived in Weymouth! Ideal bars (for adults) to share with your friends, and we are sure will bring a smile to many!
A new Gay Bar, along with several others have arrived in Weymouth! Ideal bars (for adults) to share with your friends, and we are sure will bring a smile to many!
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With Easter around the corner, we are sure these bars will offer an alternative to the traditional Easter Egg. No, we don't need to know how you eat yours!
Available at the SoSweet shop,104 St Mary St, Weymouth DT4 8NY , and we guess other out lets too.
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Available at the SoSweet shop,104 St Mary St, Weymouth DT4 8NY , and we guess other out lets too.
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Dorchesters "non-binary superstar" heads up HIV testing week (posted here 02/02/2023)
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Jamie Windust, Author, Presenter & Model and formerly from Dorchester, is one of several celebrities featured on new campaign posters. Everyone is being encoraged to test during National HIV Testing Week which runs from Monday 6 February until Sunday 11 February The Terrence Higgins Trust says "National HIV Testing Week is back with a new look for 2023! From Monday 6 February, we're calling on people across the country to get tested and know their status – because HIV can affect anyone." "For National HIV Testing Week, anyone in England can order a free test from freetesting.hiv. It’s a great opportunity for you to get tested and encourage others to do the same, particularly those from groups most affected by HIV, including gay and bisexual men and people of Black African ethnicity." |
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Jamie is a Contributing Editor with Gay Times, and was described on twitter by Matthew Hodson (Executive Director @aidsmap) as a "non - binary superstar" ! |
Links:-
You can order a free test from freetesting.hiv Terrence Higgins Trust https://www.tht.org.uk/news/national-hiv-testing-week-returns-2023 Twitter - Terrence Higgins Trust twitter.com/THTorguk Twitter - Jamie Windust https://twitter.com/jamie_windust Twitter - Mathew Hodson https://twitter.com/Matthew_Hodson |
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Note - In Dorset you can also get tested at OVER THE RAINBOW Sexual Health for Dorset's LGBT community. See - https://rainbowdorset.co.uk Twitter - https://twitter.com/otrbournemouth |
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Weymouth Gay Group in Forever with Pride magazine!
(posted here 26/01/2023 updated 01/02/2023)
(posted here 26/01/2023 updated 01/02/2023)
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HUGE thanks to Forever with Pride magazine for helping us to celebrate our 15th year of WEYMOUTH GAY GROUP - not one, but 3 pages about us! Plus on a 4th page, they have printed our helplines & support poster. So be sure to check out their February edition which is out now, during LGBT History Month too! |
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You can download the emagazine as a PDF file. Check out - https://foreverwithpride.com/e-magazine/ |
Links:-
Website www.foreverwithpride.com Twitter @FWPemagazine Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ForeverWithPride |
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Navigating later life - An Age UK LGBT+ Booklet (posted here 26/01/2023)
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Here is a really good booklet aimed at older LBTG+ people. Published by Age UK and packed full of info and advice covering almost everything that older people need help and assistance with, from an LGBT+ perspective.
If you are an older LGBT+ person, or work with, or have contact with older LGBT+ people, then please check this out! We got our copy from the excellent Weymouth Information Shop. (The Weymouth Information Shop is at 98 St Mary St, Weymouth DT4 8NY) It is also available online to download from Age UK website. https://www.ageuk.org.uk/globalassets/age-uk/documents/information-guides/ageukig02_lesbian_gay_bisexual_transgender_inf.pdf The booklet says:- "This information guide has been produced with the help of older people, carers and expert peer reviewers. This guide has kindly been peer reviewed by Opening Doors and the LGBT Foundation. Published: May 2022" |
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We will be in these Magazines! (posted here 21/01/2023)
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Weymouth Gay Group are to be featured in two local magazines. This is part of our outreach and a way to celebrate our 15th birthday year, as well as LGBT History Month. Both the February editions of The West Dorset Magazine, and Wonderful Weymouth will feature our group and will be available during LGBT History Month this February. |
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We are particularly grateful to Miranda Editor from West Dorset Magazine who visited our group recently and spoke with many of our guys (a few in photo on right.) Adam who joined our group when 19 (now 27), spoke about his love of football and the problems of homophobia in sport. While Jonai informed her all about LGBT mental health and his NHS work. The groups "Spokesperson" explained how the group started 15 years ago, and ran through a number of key group events and achievements during that time |
In Photo L to R:- Adam, Neil, Miranda (Ed West Dorset Magazine) and Tim
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The West Dorset Magazine is a free magazine available at most local supermarkets and other outlets (& online),
while Wonderful Weymouth (also free & online) is delivered to every household in Weymouth. We will update this report when the magazines are published in February.
If you know of, or run a Dorset Magazine or newspaper (or other media) and would like to feature us, please do get in touch email [email protected]
while Wonderful Weymouth (also free & online) is delivered to every household in Weymouth. We will update this report when the magazines are published in February.
If you know of, or run a Dorset Magazine or newspaper (or other media) and would like to feature us, please do get in touch email [email protected]
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Census 2021 - Dorset LGBT results (posted here 04/01/2023 - updated 06/01/2023 & 07/01/2023, & 11/01/2023)
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How many LGBT people are there in the UK?
How many are in Weymouth? The LGBT results from The Census were published on Friday 6th Jan, with further data released later during this year. In total, 3.2% of the population identified as being LGB with trans people - 0.5% of the population. |
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Dorset data (from census website)
This dataset provides Census 2021 estimates that classify usual residents aged 16 years and over in England and Wales by sexual orientation and gender identity. The estimates are as at Census Day, 21 March 2021.
(These were voluntary questions in the census)
This dataset provides Census 2021 estimates that classify usual residents aged 16 years and over in England and Wales by sexual orientation and gender identity. The estimates are as at Census Day, 21 March 2021.
(These were voluntary questions in the census)
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Dorset
Sexual orientation Straight or Heterosexual 291721 Lesbian & Gay 3575 Bisexual 2889 Other sexual orientations 614 Not answered 23103 Gender identity Gender identity same as at birth 303693 Gender different from sex registered at birth but no specific identity given 277 Trans Woman 241 Trans Man 166 Non Binary 119 All other gender identities 82 Not answered 17322 |
Bournemouth Christchurch Poole
Sexual orientation Straight or Heterosexual 296257 Lesbian & Gay 6494 Bisexual 5358 Other sexual orientations 1220 Not answered 25580 Gender identity Gender identity same as at birth 313307 Gender different from sex registered at birth but no specific identity given 549 Trans Woman 291 Trans Man 330 Non Binary 259 All other gender identities 159 Not answered 20013 |
The Census website has maps so you can zoom in to get local data. We checked out Sexual orientation in Weymouth & Portland:- https://www.ons.gov.uk/census/maps/choropleth/identity/sexual-orientation/sexual-orientation-4a/lesbian-gay-bisexual-or-other-lgb?msoa=E02004284
Weymouth
3.84% of people aged 16 years and over in Weymouth Town, Melcombe Regis & Rodwell are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
3.27% of people aged 16 years and over in Westham South are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
2.06% of people aged 16 years and over in Westham North & Radipole are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
2.50% of people aged 16 years and over in Weymouth West are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
3.99% of people aged 16 years and over in Wyke Regis are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
2.04% of people aged 16 years and over in Chickerell & Chesil Bank are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
1.70% of people aged 16 years and over in Preston & Lodmoor are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
2.73% of people aged 16 years and over in Broadwey & Littlemoor are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
Portland
4.01% of people aged 16 years and over in Underhill & The Grove are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
1.96% of people aged 16 years and over in Southwell & Weston are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
Detailed results are also available for Dorchester & Bridport and all other areas of England & Wales.
Copy from twitter:-
Office for National Statistics (ONS) @ONS Jan 6
We’ve updated our Census maps tool, adding data published today on sexual orientation and gender identity in England and Wales. Discover what the data in your neighbourhood shows http://ow.ly/OjY450MjMPh
Weymouth
3.84% of people aged 16 years and over in Weymouth Town, Melcombe Regis & Rodwell are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
3.27% of people aged 16 years and over in Westham South are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
2.06% of people aged 16 years and over in Westham North & Radipole are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
2.50% of people aged 16 years and over in Weymouth West are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
3.99% of people aged 16 years and over in Wyke Regis are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
2.04% of people aged 16 years and over in Chickerell & Chesil Bank are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
1.70% of people aged 16 years and over in Preston & Lodmoor are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
2.73% of people aged 16 years and over in Broadwey & Littlemoor are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
Portland
4.01% of people aged 16 years and over in Underhill & The Grove are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
1.96% of people aged 16 years and over in Southwell & Weston are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other
Detailed results are also available for Dorchester & Bridport and all other areas of England & Wales.
Copy from twitter:-
Office for National Statistics (ONS) @ONS Jan 6
We’ve updated our Census maps tool, adding data published today on sexual orientation and gender identity in England and Wales. Discover what the data in your neighbourhood shows http://ow.ly/OjY450MjMPh
Our comment:-
Does this data matter? Is it a true reflection of our community? What will it be used for nationally and locally?
We hope to bring you comments and interpretation here as to what this data means for LGBT+ people in Dorset, and how it may be used in the future.
For persons belonging to minority groups within our community it shows they are not alone. For our Weymouth Gay Group it shows we need a bigger pub venue if you all turn up!
We hope to update this report in the near future with answers to the above questions. Until then, it will be an interesting subject to chat over at our pub meet ups. Why not join us with your views about this?
Links / further reading:-
Census 2021 - England & Wales Twitter - @Census2021
Website Census 2021 - https://www.ons.gov.uk/releases/sexualorientationandgenderidentitycensus2021inenglandandwales
Dorset Live - with quotes from Weymouth Gay Group -www.dorset.live/news/dorset-news/census-data-shows-dorset-areas-8008544
Dorset Echo (03/02/2023) One in 20 people in Dorset aged under 35 identify as LGB+ www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23292374.one-20-people-dorset-aged-35-identify-lgb/
BBC - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-64184736
Pink News - Size of England and Wales' LGBTQ+ population confirmed for first time by new census data
www.thepinknews.com/2023/01/06/ons-sexual-orientation-and-gender-identity-census-released/
Pink News - Eye-opening census data shows how bisexual and pansexual people are being erased
https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/01/06/census-bisexual-pansexual-data/
Pink News -Trans census data proves 'moral panic' wrong and highlights need for non-binary recognition
https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/01/06/2021-census-data-trans-lgbtq/
Stonewall - 5 things you might have missed from the 2021 Census
https://www.stonewall.org.uk/about-us/news/5-things-you-might-have-missed-2021-census
Does this data matter? Is it a true reflection of our community? What will it be used for nationally and locally?
We hope to bring you comments and interpretation here as to what this data means for LGBT+ people in Dorset, and how it may be used in the future.
For persons belonging to minority groups within our community it shows they are not alone. For our Weymouth Gay Group it shows we need a bigger pub venue if you all turn up!
We hope to update this report in the near future with answers to the above questions. Until then, it will be an interesting subject to chat over at our pub meet ups. Why not join us with your views about this?
Links / further reading:-
Census 2021 - England & Wales Twitter - @Census2021
Website Census 2021 - https://www.ons.gov.uk/releases/sexualorientationandgenderidentitycensus2021inenglandandwales
Dorset Live - with quotes from Weymouth Gay Group -www.dorset.live/news/dorset-news/census-data-shows-dorset-areas-8008544
Dorset Echo (03/02/2023) One in 20 people in Dorset aged under 35 identify as LGB+ www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/23292374.one-20-people-dorset-aged-35-identify-lgb/
BBC - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-64184736
Pink News - Size of England and Wales' LGBTQ+ population confirmed for first time by new census data
www.thepinknews.com/2023/01/06/ons-sexual-orientation-and-gender-identity-census-released/
Pink News - Eye-opening census data shows how bisexual and pansexual people are being erased
https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/01/06/census-bisexual-pansexual-data/
Pink News -Trans census data proves 'moral panic' wrong and highlights need for non-binary recognition
https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/01/06/2021-census-data-trans-lgbtq/
Stonewall - 5 things you might have missed from the 2021 Census
https://www.stonewall.org.uk/about-us/news/5-things-you-might-have-missed-2021-census
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Census background
(Reposted here 09/01/2023 from our 2021 news page) Below is the Press Release from 2021 which we first posted on our news page for that year. (link - weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/lgbt-news-weymouth-dorset-2021.html). With the results now in, it is interesting to read back about why the "LGBT Questions" were in The Census, and how the results should benefit our community. |
Above poster from 2021 encoraging LGBT people to take part
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Press Release from The Office for National Statistics (Feb 2021)
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.
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.
"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."
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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.
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.
"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."
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Hep A alert (Posted here 03/01/2023)
Dorsets NHS Over The Rainbow who provide sexual health and support to Dorsets LGBT community have issued the following Hep A alert.
Dorsets NHS Over The Rainbow who provide sexual health and support to Dorsets LGBT community have issued the following Hep A alert.
On their website (https://rainbowdorset.co.uk/hep-a/) they say: -
Hep A – STI early warningHepatitis A, or HepA is virus that causes inflammation of the liver. It is spread by contaminated food, poor hand washing or sex (when licking skin, condoms or sex toys contaminated with poo).
Gay and Bisexual men are most at risk – more so if you have multiple partners or attend sex on premises venues such as saunas, sex clubs, fetish clubs and cruise bars.
Hep A – STI early warningHepatitis A, or HepA is virus that causes inflammation of the liver. It is spread by contaminated food, poor hand washing or sex (when licking skin, condoms or sex toys contaminated with poo).
Gay and Bisexual men are most at risk – more so if you have multiple partners or attend sex on premises venues such as saunas, sex clubs, fetish clubs and cruise bars.
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Symptoms can be so mild that most people don’t realise they have the infection – it can cause a mild flu like illness, diarrhoea, nausea and abdominal pain. There is no specific treatment for HepA – your body will clear it on its own and it means once this has happened, you are immune to HepA (but not the other viruses and not from other types of hepatitis). |
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You can protect yourself by:
• Being vaccinated (in Dorset ask us at Over The Rainbow), • Washing your hands (and other body parts) after sex • Making sure condoms are changed between anal and oral sex • Latex gloves should be worn for fingering and fisting. |
Call us at Over The Rainbow For more information or support call 0300 303 1948 first to speak to a sexual health adviser.
Links :- Over The Rainbow Hep A :- https://rainbowdorset.co.uk/hep-a/ Over The Rainbow on twitter:- https://twitter.com/otrbournemouth |
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Have you seen The Pride Bus? (Posted here 03/01/2023 Update 23/01/2023)
What a lovely way to brighten up a dull damp day in the winter...... spotting The Pride Bus in Weymouth, or better still, going for a ride on it!
What a lovely way to brighten up a dull damp day in the winter...... spotting The Pride Bus in Weymouth, or better still, going for a ride on it!
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Seen running on the number 10 route between Weymouth and Dorchester during the Christmas Holidays, and bringing a smile to many faces!
Reminding us how we come together in the warmer months at Dorset's Pride events. You may be able to name one or two of them, but did you know there could be a record FOUR Pride events this year in Dorset! Now that's something to celebrate in 2023, hopefully with the Pride Bus attending too! |
You can read a report about the bus in last years Dorset Echo here:- www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/20263792.weymouth-home-new-lbgtq-double-decker-bus/
Update (23/01/2023) The Pride Bus was seen today, 23rd Jan, working on the X51 Weymouth to Bridport route.
Update (23/01/2023) The Pride Bus was seen today, 23rd Jan, working on the X51 Weymouth to Bridport route.
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"This is me Weymouth" Transgender etc nights change venue (Posted here 28/12/2022 Update 12/01/2023)
The "This is Me" Transgender, crossdressing & non binary etc nights at Weymouth's Wateerloo pub are on hold.This has followed some uncertainty about the future of The Waterloo Pub in Weymouth which hosted the regular Tuesday evenings.The pub has been closed on most Monday and Tuesday evenings recently. For up to date info - please contact Anabelle :- [email protected] or 07411 465007
Update: - 12/01/2023 - Anabelle on social media said:- "Right everybody from next Tuesday (17th) until further notice Tuesday meetings (This is Me) in Weymouth will be held at The Royal Oak, Dorchester Road, Weymouth from 7pm to 9pm."
"This is me Weymouth" Transgender etc nights change venue (Posted here 28/12/2022 Update 12/01/2023)
The "This is Me" Transgender, crossdressing & non binary etc nights at Weymouth's Wateerloo pub are on hold.This has followed some uncertainty about the future of The Waterloo Pub in Weymouth which hosted the regular Tuesday evenings.The pub has been closed on most Monday and Tuesday evenings recently. For up to date info - please contact Anabelle :- [email protected] or 07411 465007
Update: - 12/01/2023 - Anabelle on social media said:- "Right everybody from next Tuesday (17th) until further notice Tuesday meetings (This is Me) in Weymouth will be held at The Royal Oak, Dorchester Road, Weymouth from 7pm to 9pm."
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Some events to look forward to in 2023! (Posted here 28/12/2022)
Frustrated that you missed a great event during 2022? Plan ahead and save these dates below to avoid disappointment! We will have info about these events, and MANY MORE during 2023 on our Events Diary page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
We often list over 25 local events EVERY month! So we would recommend that you check our website weekly.
Plus don't forget our Weymouth Gay Group guys meet up TWICE a week in town pubs and you are most welcomed to join us there. Info - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/wgg-events.html
Frustrated that you missed a great event during 2022? Plan ahead and save these dates below to avoid disappointment! We will have info about these events, and MANY MORE during 2023 on our Events Diary page here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/events-diary-monthly-listings.html
We often list over 25 local events EVERY month! So we would recommend that you check our website weekly.
Plus don't forget our Weymouth Gay Group guys meet up TWICE a week in town pubs and you are most welcomed to join us there. Info - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/wgg-events.html
LGBT HISTORY MONTH February 2023 - Behind The LensThe LGBT+ History Month 2023 #BehindTheLens celebrates LGBT+ peoples’ contribution to cinema and film from behind the lens. Directors, cinematographers, screen writers, producers, animators, costume designers, special effects, make up artists, lighting directors, musicians, choreographers and beyond.
At a time when LGBT+ lives are in the media we also encourage you to look ‘Behind the Lens’ and listen to LGBT+ peoples’ lived experiences. info:- https://lgbtplushistorymonth.co.uk/lgbt-history-month-2023/ Events around UK incl Dorset tbc.
At a time when LGBT+ lives are in the media we also encourage you to look ‘Behind the Lens’ and listen to LGBT+ peoples’ lived experiences. info:- https://lgbtplushistorymonth.co.uk/lgbt-history-month-2023/ Events around UK incl Dorset tbc.
OUTDOOR LADS (ODL) Spring on the Jurassic Coast. 10th February 2023
3 day weekend event. Lulworth Cove. "Long winter nights have taken their toll and spring is not far away, so why not make the most of a pleasant weekend in the stunning countryside and coastline of Dorset at Lulworth Cove?!" Note you will need to join ODL to take part in this event.
Info:- https://www.outdoorlads.com/events/spring-jurassic-coast-230210
3 day weekend event. Lulworth Cove. "Long winter nights have taken their toll and spring is not far away, so why not make the most of a pleasant weekend in the stunning countryside and coastline of Dorset at Lulworth Cove?!" Note you will need to join ODL to take part in this event.
Info:- https://www.outdoorlads.com/events/spring-jurassic-coast-230210
THE ABSOLUTELY DRAGULOUS SHOW - Weymouth Pavilion Friday 17th February 2023
The UKs Funniest Drag Duo. On other dates in 2023 too.
Info - https://weymouthpavilion.com/shows/absolutely-dragulous/
The UKs Funniest Drag Duo. On other dates in 2023 too.
Info - https://weymouthpavilion.com/shows/absolutely-dragulous/
WEYMOUTH PUB PRIDE 2023 date tbc. (likely to be end of May)
This is run Nationally by "Ask For Clive" and locally took place at The Waterloo Pub in Weymouth in 2022, and was a great event! https://www.pubpride.com/
Read our report of last years Pub Pride here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/weymouth-pub-pride.html
This is run Nationally by "Ask For Clive" and locally took place at The Waterloo Pub in Weymouth in 2022, and was a great event! https://www.pubpride.com/
Read our report of last years Pub Pride here - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/weymouth-pub-pride.html
DORSET YOUTH PRIDE 10th June 2023 tbc
This was at Shire Hall Dorchester and ran in June 2022 for the first time. Organisers are keen to repeat it! https://shirehalldorset.org/whats-on/
You can see pics and read about last years event on our Pride page here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/dorchester-pride.html
This was at Shire Hall Dorchester and ran in June 2022 for the first time. Organisers are keen to repeat it! https://shirehalldorset.org/whats-on/
You can see pics and read about last years event on our Pride page here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/dorchester-pride.html
CHESIL ROCKS - 17th June 2023
This annual music event (think mini Glastonbury!) takes place in beautiful surroundings near Weymouth and is in aid of The Samaritans.
2023 is their 10th anniversary year! London Gay Men's Chorus are one of many groups who perform there every year. Weymouth Gay Group attended for the first time in 2022 with a "Alan Turing's Treasure Hunt", a great event to attend and support. https://www.chesilrocks.com/
This annual music event (think mini Glastonbury!) takes place in beautiful surroundings near Weymouth and is in aid of The Samaritans.
2023 is their 10th anniversary year! London Gay Men's Chorus are one of many groups who perform there every year. Weymouth Gay Group attended for the first time in 2022 with a "Alan Turing's Treasure Hunt", a great event to attend and support. https://www.chesilrocks.com/
BOURNEMOUTH PRIDE 8th July 2023
Bourne Free - This will on Saturday 8th July 2023, in Meyrick Park Bournemouth. bournefree.co.uk/
A group of us from Weymouth go every year on the train, and you are welcomed to join us at Dorset's biggest LGBT event. You can read our report of last years FAB day, plus links to over 250 pics!
here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-pride-bournefree.html
Bourne Free - This will on Saturday 8th July 2023, in Meyrick Park Bournemouth. bournefree.co.uk/
A group of us from Weymouth go every year on the train, and you are welcomed to join us at Dorset's biggest LGBT event. You can read our report of last years FAB day, plus links to over 250 pics!
here:- https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/bournemouth-pride-bournefree.html
New! Jurassic Pride 2023? (Posted first on our website 07/07/2022)
This event has been proposed by Anabelle and her friends in Bridport. More info from Anabelle at the Weymouth "This is me" Transgender group contact Anabelle :- [email protected] or 07411 465007.
This event has been proposed by Anabelle and her friends in Bridport. More info from Anabelle at the Weymouth "This is me" Transgender group contact Anabelle :- [email protected] or 07411 465007.
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Please make sure you check out all our other pages, lots of local lgbt events, local lgbt news, helplines and Prides in Dorset info!
This page was last updated 05/01/2024 Weymouth Gay Group 2024
email :- [email protected] X (aka Twitter) https://twitter.com/WeymouthGayGrp and some where on facebook too!
Looking for a helpline or support? Check out our Helplines page we have lots of helpful links, both local and national for you or someone you may know. See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
Please make sure you check out all our other pages, lots of local lgbt events, local lgbt news, helplines and Prides in Dorset info!
This page was last updated 05/01/2024 Weymouth Gay Group 2024
email :- [email protected] X (aka Twitter) https://twitter.com/WeymouthGayGrp and some where on facebook too!
Looking for a helpline or support? Check out our Helplines page we have lots of helpful links, both local and national for you or someone you may know. See - https://weymouthgaygroup.weebly.com/helplinessupport-groups.html
