"Being Gay Is Only Part Of Who You Are" Is The Message At Relaunched LGBT Youth Group In Telford And Shropshire

Main Category: Sexual Health / STDs
Article Date: 15 May 2009 - 0:00 PDT

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To mark the International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO) on 17 May, a lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth group in Telford and Shropshire is calling for local people to be aware that "Being gay is only part of who you are". The group chose this slogan to put across the message that LGBT people should not be defined by their sexuality alone, but by who they are as individuals. The I-mix group, run by HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust (THT), will be distributing posters and flyers across the region to encourage LGBT young people interested in joining to get in touch.

I-mix provides a safe, non-judgmental space for young people aged between 13 and 21 to socialise and explore issues around sexuality. The group, which meets in Telford once a week, is run by CRB checked, qualified youth workers and volunteers who provide advice, guidance and support on a range of subjects, including safer sex, drug and alcohol awareness, and relationships. I-mix also regularly networks with other LGBT groups across the UK, arranging social activities and events, such as trips to the theatre, cinema, and theme parks.

Lotte Hakeman, Senior Practitioner for THT in Telford, said: "We know first-hand that homophobia continues to be a problem for LGBT people in the region, and that young people are particularly badly affected. I-mix provides a great opportunity for these youngsters to meet others in a similar situation, which in turn can give them greater confidence about their own sexuality. The group is always very welcoming to new members, so we'd encourage anyone who might be interested in coming along to get in touch."

Source
Terrence Higgins Trust