To mark International Day Against Homophobia HIV sexual health charity, Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) and the Wirral Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Forum are holding an open day from 11am -3pm on Saturday 17 May. The event will be held at THTs offices in Birkenhead.

Everyone in the local LGBT community is invited to come along to find out more about the services available to them on the Wirral.  It’s also an opportunity for the wider community to come along and show their support for International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO). There will be displays on LGBT history and challenging homophobia.  Refreshments will be available.  

On the Wirral, young people and adults are still confronted with homophobic behaviour in schools, in the workplace and in their leisure time – simply because they are gay, lesbian or bisexual. Although the law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation, homophobic bullying, violence, discrimination, name-calling and exclusion do still happen. This can affect all areas of people’s lives from their careers to their relationships, reducing self esteem and damaging mental and sexual health.

Ewan Jenkins, Regional Manager for THT in the Wirral said “This is the 21st Century yet many people who are gay, lesbian and bisexual still face stigma and prejudice in their everyday lives. This has got to stop. We need to work together to challenge discrimination, celebrate diversity and make the Wirral a safe and supportive place for everyone to live in.”

Terrence Higgins Trust in Birkenhead offers individual and group support, counselling, and health promotion services.  THT also provides education and training for LGBT people to help them live their lives with confidence, particularly around sexual health issues.

The IDAHO event will take place at Terrence Higgins Trust, 5 Bridge Street, Birkenhead, Wirral, CH41 1AS. For further information please call 0151 666 9890.

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