Welfare
Talk...
One of the best ways to deal with any problems that you are going through is to talk to people who have been through the same - and figuring out your sexuality and coming out are no exception! Just coming along to LGBT events and meeting new people can increase your confidence and make you realise that there are a lot of people out there who are just like you.
If you want to talk about anything concerning sexuality, coming out, sexual health or homophobia then please approach one of the two Welfare reps or any committee member. Feel free to talk about anything - and remember that whatever you share with anyone in LGBT is strictly confidential.
Outreach and the Buddy Programme
LGBT operates an Outreach programme for those who need it. If you feel that you need to talk to someone privately, on a one-to-one basis, in a safe and anonymous environment, then we can arrange for a committee member to meet you. To take advantage of this, you can email welfare with Outreach in the subject line, private message one of the Welfare Officers on the messageboard (Will C and Rozzle), or alternatively leave a post in the Problems & Support forum. As an extension to Outreach, the LGBT now offers a "buddy" service to those who would like it. A committee member can be designated as your buddy, meet and talk to you, and accompany you to events so that you don't necessarily have to come alone. It's a good way to help introduce yourself to the world that is our and your LGBT, so if you would like to take us up on our offer, email welfare and we'll get back to you.
Welfare Events
Most of the welfare work of the group goes on behind the scenes - ie. when individuals need and request it. However, throughout the year a number of our events have a specific welfare focus. Check out the events page for details of planned events. We hold sexual health and coming out workshops at least once a year and these events, although serious in topic, always turn out to be fun and social as well. We also hold Newcomers' Events every year during the second term, for those who want to come along but possibly think it's too late (though it never is).
This year we will be holding a coming out workshop early in the first term. This workshop explores the pleasures and perils of coming out: how, where, when (and when not) to do so. This workshop aims to promote the idea that everyone treats coming out differently, whilst offering informal advice and support.
Sexual Health
Whenever possible LGBT aims to provide free condoms, lube, dental dams and sexual health leaflets at our events; if you don't see them available, just ask a committee member. You can also get these from "The GAi Project" at the Health Shop (see below).
You can talk to the welfare reps or any committee member about sexual health information, or any concerns you may have - if we can't help straight away then we can certainly point you in the right direction. Alternatively, ring any of the support numbers listed on this page.
If you are worried about a particular sexual health issue, or you want to get vaccinated or tested for peace of mind, then ring the GUM clinic at City Hospital to arrange an appointment - you do not need to see your GP first and any tests or treatment that you have will not appear on your medical record.