More support for LGBTQ* young people in Leeds

Nearly half a million pounds (£499,040) is to be delivered to help support children and young people aged between eight and 24 in North and West Yorkshire who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and those questioning (LGBTQ) their sexual or gender identity.

The Barnardo's project, called Prouder Communities Yorkshire, aims for LGBTQ young people to feel safer and more supported, with improved mental health and well-being.

From its base in Leeds, the three-year Project is being funded as part of the latest Big Lottery Fund round of grant awards - with more than 530 projects across England sharing £18.5m.

Young people who identify as LGBTQ statistically experience poor emotional and mental well-being:

• 34% of lesbian, gay and bisexual young people had made at least one suicide attempt in their lives as compared to 18% of heterosexual young people
• 48% of trans young people had made at least one suicide attempt in their lives
• 24% of the youth homeless population are LGBT - 77% felt their sexual and/or gender identity was a causal factor in rejection from home.
• 55% of LGBT young people experience homophobic bullying in Britain’s schools.

Steve Oversby, Director of Barnardo’s East Region, says: “As we enter LGBT history month, we are very grateful to the Big Lottery Fund for funding this vital work. Young people who are LGBTQ are much more vulnerable to bullying and poor mental health than other young people, and we want our work to create an environment where these young people feel that they can access support.

“We will be running events, workshops and support groups aimed at young people, professionals and communities so we can help tackle discrimination and give a voice to LGBTQ young people.”

Prouder Communities Yorkshire will do this through:

• 1to 1 sessions
• Running workshops in schools, out of curriculum time
• Delivering faith toolkit workshops working with faith groups
• Engaging existing LGBTQ support groups
• Developing a safe network for LGBTQ children and young people
• Engaging adult support groups
• Offering volunteering opportunities for young people and adults to be community champions.