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.”

For further information on dropping in to an I-mix session, please contact THT’s Telford centre on (01952) 221 410.

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Notes to editors

1. Terrence Higgins Trust is the UK’s leading HIV and sexual health charity with centres across England, Scotland and Wales. We're here to provide information and advice about HIV and sexual health and offer a range of services including sexual health checks, counselling and support groups.  We campaign for a world where people with HIV live healthy lives, free from prejudice and discrimination and we promote good sexual health as a right and reality for all.

2. The International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHO) was founded by Louis Georges Tin in 2005. Campaigns and initiatives take place on or around May 17th every year to combat prejudice against LGBT people. May 17th is chosen because it marks the anniversary of the day in 1990 when the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from its list of mental diseases.