"Switchboard was there for me when no one else was. The empathy, care, and understanding they offered felt like a lifeline during my darkest days." — Switchboard Service User

Since 1975, Brighton & Hove LGBT Switchboard has proudly provided a vital lifeline, and a voice for LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer) people across Brighton & Hove and beyond.

As we approach our 50th anniversary, we urgently need your help to secure Switchboard’s future. With your support, we can secure Switchboard's vital services – support that thousands of LGBTQ+ people depend on.

Switchboard is one of the oldest LGBTQ+ organisations in the UK. What began as a single volunteer helpline in the 1970s has grown into the multi-award winning ‘by and for’ charity we are today.

From crisis intervention for people experiencing domestic abuse or at risk of suicide to helping shape local public services, our work spans the entire spectrum of LGBTQ+ issues.

Our Impact on the Community

We don’t just provide services; we change and save lives. Every year hundreds of LGBTQ+ adults come to Switchboard for help. We’re especially proud to be here for the most marginalised members of our communities.

The Helpline: This is where it all began and where hundreds of callers receive empathy, understanding, and practical information from our dedicated volunteers every year. Trained specifically in safeguarding and suicide first aid interventions, the Helpline volunteers play an important role in supporting mental health across LGBTQ+ communities.

• Victims and Survivors of Domestic Abuse: Our specialist team provides a lifeline for LGBTQ+ people affected by domestic abuse, allowing them to speak up and navigate their way to safety and empowerment, often for the first time.
• Older LGBTQ+ Adults: Through friendship and a listening ear, we bring together older LGBTQ+ people in later life, including those with dementia and their carers, and people who have been bereaved.
• Migrants, Refugees, and Asylum Seekers: For LGBTQ+ people fleeing violence and persecution, and facing the trauma of displacement, language barriers, and cultural challenges, we offer specialised support to help them feel safe, seen, and valued.
• Mental Health and Wellbeing Support: Our helpline and outreach services, including our specialist support for Trans, Non Binary, and Intersex people, offer understanding and practical advice for people living with poor mental health, loneliness, and discrimination, helping them find comfort and support in their community.

"Switchboard’s Dementia Support has been a lifeline for myself and my partner. It is the one place we can go where we know we can talk safely and confidentially about the impact of dementia within a same-sex relationship..." — Switchboard Dementia Project Member

Switchboard reaches beyond our support services. Working with local governments, health authorities, police, and other community organisations, we also represent the voices of LGBTQ+ communities in policy development to help shape national and local services.

Why We Need Your Help

This year, as we approach our 50th anniversary, we’re facing an urgent funding need. Like most charities, Switchboard is facing increasing operational costs and reduced income, as well as some unexpected core costs. While our projects are well-funded, we have set ourselves a fundraising target of £10,000 to help pay for vital overheads needed to support service delivery. Without this, our core services—and thousands of people who rely on us - are at risk.

By supporting our appeal, you are helping LGBTQ+ people in crisis and ensuring the voices of LGBTQ+ communities are heard.

How you can help

Donate: Every penny counts. Your donation, no matter the size, will help ensure Switchboard can continue to support those who need it most.

Fundraise for Us: Want to make an even bigger impact? Whatever you like doing, do it for Switchboard! You can start your own fundraising page and encourage your friends and family to donate. Together, we can reach our goal!

Share Our Campaign: Please spread the word about our Fundraising Appeal. The more people who know about it, the greater our chances of reaching our goal.

Together we can secure the future of Switchboard for the next generation of local LGBTQ+ people. 

Thank you
The Switchboard Team