23-31 Waring Street, Belfast
(028) 9089 0202
Supporting LGBTQI+ People in Northern Ireland
Cara-Friend Supporting and empowering the LGBTQI+ community
in Northern Ireland.

WHO WE ARE

Cara-Friend has been serving and empowering the LGBTQIA+ community in Northern Ireland since 1974. We provide: 

  • LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Business Charter
  • LGBTQIA+ Youth Services
  • Trans Specific Youth Services
  • Advocacy, Campaigning, Policy and Volunteering
  • Family Support
  • LGBTQIA+ Awareness Training
  • LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Schools’ Charter & Education Services
  • LGBTQIA+ Mental Health & Mindfulness Project
  • LGBTQIA+ Community Development Services & Events
  • LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Business Charter

    The LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Business Charter is an invaluable training package which enables businesses to address inclusivity, equality and respect within their workplace. The Charter also highlights the need for greater awareness and understanding of LGBTQIA+ issues. 

    LGBTQIA+ Youth Services

    We operate LGBTQIA+ youth groups for those aged 12-25 in several locations across Northern Ireland. They are fun, safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ young people where they can be themselves.

    Advocacy, Campaigning, Policy and Volunteering

    We advocate for our community, campaign for change, advise on policy, and offer volunteering opportunities for those who wish to get involved. 

    Family Support

    Cara-Friend provides support to the parents and guardians of LGBTQIA+ young people.

    LGBTQIA+ Awareness Training

    This training is for all schools, community groups, businesses and public bodies who wish to increase their awareness of the LGBTQIA+ community and the issues this community faces. This is a great opportunity to discuss language, best practice, and offers a space to ask questions in a safe and constructive environment. 

    LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Schools’ Charter

    The LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Schools’ Charter is an invaluable programme of events, activities and targets which enable schools to address inclusivity, equality and respect within an educational environment. Through proactive measures your school will improve the experience of LGBTQIA+ students, while promoting inclusivity for all. 

    LGBTQIA+ Community Development & Events

    Cara-Friend is generously funded by Belfast City Council to run our Community Development Project for Belfast. This involves organising community events each year, advocating on behalf of the LGBTQIA+ community for the promotion of inclusivity, communications, training, and exploring the history of the LGBTQIA+ community.  

    MORE FROM CARA-FRIEND

    We offer support through our different services including LGBTQIA+ Switchboard NI, Cara-Friend LGBTQIA+ Youth and our Mental Health & Wellbeing Project.

    All of the services we provide are completely confidential.

    If you are distressed or require help and support out-of-hours, please contact Lifeline on 0808 808 8000. Lines open 24/7

    Latest Blog Posts

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    13 hours ago

    Cara-Friend
    We wish to thank everyone who came along on Saturday to celebrate Cara-Friend, The Rainbow Project and Here NI's combined 100 years of service to the LGBTQI+ community.We had an absolutely magical night and we are so grateful to our sector partners and all those who organised, attended and sponsored this milestone event.Congratulations are also due to all those who won a Tolerantia award, inclu ... See MoreSee Less
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