Overview

Switchboard provides information, support and referral service for lesbians, gay men, bisexual and trans people – and anyone considering issues around their sexuality and/or gender identity.  They also support family and friends.

They listen to all kinds of calls and take everyone seriously. Whatever made you call they want to help you.  The service is confidential.

Here are some of the things people might call them for:

• Information about support groups for someone who is struggling with their gender identity
• Support for a man who has been a victim of homophobic abuse, but has previously had a bad experience going to the police.
• Contact details for an LGBT-friendly therapist for counselling
• Support for a lesbian teenager thrown out of her home by her parents, and who needs somewhere to stay.
• Information on how to get to local gay pubs for someone with mobility issues.
• Times and places for a local bisexual social group.
• Listening to some of the concerns a mother has about her child who is trans.

Every call is unique, and Switchboard prides itself on responding to the changing needs of communities by providing a service that’s continually evolving and relevant. You can also contact them via the chat on their website.

There are about 160 trained telephone volunteers at Switchboard who all identity as lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans.