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 LGBTQI+ community in Northern Ireland since 1974. We provide: 

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

    The LGBTQI+ 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 LGBTQI+ issues. 

    LGBTQI+ Youth Services

    We operate LGBTQI+ youth groups for those aged 12-25 in several locations across Northern Ireland. They are fun, safe spaces for LGBTQI+ 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 LGBTQI+ young people. 

    LGBTQI+ Awareness Training

    This training is for all schools, community groups, businesses and public bodies who wish to increase their awareness of the LGBTQI+ 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. 

    LGBTQI+ Inclusive Schools’ Charter

    The LGBTQI+ 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 LGBTQI+ students, while promoting inclusivity for all. 

    LGBTQI+ Switchboard / Helpline

    Have you ever had something you need to talk about, perhaps something you need to get off your chest? Maybe you need information relating to your sexual orientation or gender identity? Perhaps you feel isolated, or maybe just want to know that there are other lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans people in the world. Our trained volunteers will provide a listening ear & can help you to explore your options. 

    LGBTQI+ Domestic Abuse Project

    The Domestic Abuse Project addresses violence against women and girls and is aimed at women and girls age 12 years + from the LBTI community (Lesbian, Bi-sexual, Trans or Intersex) community who have experienced or are at risk of domestic or sexual violence and abuse. 

    LGBTQI+ 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 LGBTQI+ community for the promotion of inclusivity, communications, training, and exploring the history of the LGBTQI+ community.  

    MORE FROM CARA-FRIEND

    We offer support through our different services including LGBTQI+ Switchboard NI, Cara-Friend LGBTQI+ 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

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    6 days ago

    Cara-Friend
    Following the recent delivery of a Lunch and Learn LGBTQIA+ Awareness Training session, the Progressive Building Society have kindly donated £2,000 in support of Cara-Friend's LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Schools' Charter. This donation will enable Cara-Friend to continue to work with schools right across Northern Ireland. To date, the Cara-Friend Education and Training Team have delivered the 'All Out' Anti-Bullying workshop to over 26,000 pupils and to 8,500 school staff. If you would like more information about the LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Schools' Charter or the training Cara-Friend delivers in schools, please contact joanne.mcparland@cara-friend.org.uk or gemma.kelly@cara-friend.org.uk. ... See MoreSee Less
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