23-31 Waring Street, Belfast
(028) 9089 0202
Supporting LGBTQI+ People in Northern Ireland

LGBTQI+ SWITCHBOARD NI

0808 8000 390

FREE from landlines and most mobiles.

Mondays & Tuesdays: 4pm – 7pm

You can also click the live chat icon at the bottom right of the screen during these hours for online chat support with one of our volunteers, or to send a message outside of those hours which we will reply to when we can.

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. Perhaps you are an LGBTQI+ parent or a parent with an LGBTQI+ child?

The LGBTQI+ Switchboard NI is staffed by trained volunteers who will provide a listening ear and can help you to explore your options. We can also provide information on a wide range of issues including health & well-being, legal concerns, information on the social scene and details of LGBTQI+ community groups.

Some people contact the Switchboard simply because they feel isolated and just want to talk to someone.

Our volunteers are friendly and understanding and can offer information and support to anyone concerned about sexual orientation.

CHATTING WITH OUR VOLUNTEERS

If you feel isolated and alone, it may be difficult dealing with some aspect of sexual orientation. Befriending allows you the chance to meet with two or more of our volunteers, to sit and have a chat and a coffee. It’s a good way of getting to know a few other LGBTQI+ people, ask any questions you might have and hear about LGBTQI+ groups in your local area.

It might be an opportunity to make a whole new circle of friends, or just receive a little reassurance.

WILL WHAT I SAY BE CONFIDENTIAL?

Absolutely. Any information you provide to LGBTQI+ Switchboard NI will remain totally confidential.

How much information you provide is entirely up to you – our volunteers will never pressure you to talk about things that you don’t want to.

The only exception to this is of course if you disclose information about yourself or someone else who may be at serious risk of harm.

SOUNDS GOOD! HOW DO I GET IN TOUCH?

The Switchboard is open Mondays and Tuesdays from 4pm – 7pm

Telephone us on 0808 8000 390 or alternatively you can email us at: switchboard@cara-friend.org.uk

Or click on the ‘Live Chat’ icon on the bottom right of the screen to speak to a volunteer online.

Cara-Friend is a member of  www.helplinesnetworkni.com

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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