Under current circumstances surrounding COVID-19 lock-down, many LGBT+ children and young people have been isolated in potentially homo/bi/transphobic households. As a community who already face mental health issues disproportionately to their non-LGBT+ peers (Mental Health Foundation), the effects of this on the mental health of LGBT+ children and young people can be devastating (highlighted in this BBC article).
By providing online groups, one-to-one support and advocacy services for the duration of social distancing/isolation, Allsorts aims to ensure that LGBT+ children, young people and their parents/carers in Sussex and the South East are not left alone. Additionally, in launching online LGBT+ youth services, we have found that we are now able to support harder to reach people in rural areas, and those with social anxiety and/or mobility issues.
With your help, LGBT+ children and young people throughout Sussex can continue accessing the vital support of Allsorts, connect with their LGBT+ peers, and #KeepProud at this very difficult and isolating time.
In the wake of circumstances surrounding COVID-19, we have seen many fundraising events cancelled or indefinitely postponed. It is paramount that Allsorts continues to reach those in need of our services.
How can your donations help Allsorts?
£20 could provide an LGBT+ young person across Sussex & the South East with one online One-to-One Emotional Support session.
£30 could supply an LGBT+ Youth Support Worker for an online LGBT+ Youth Group for children & young people across Sussex & the South East
£40 could provide our Parents/Carers Support Group with two online sessions.
£60 could provide an LGBT+ young person with 3 online One-to-One Emotional Support sessions.
£100 could provide one online LGBT+ Youth Group and two One-to-One Emotional Support Sessions for LGBT+ children and young people across Sussex and the South East and one Parents/Carers Support Group.
We understand that not everyone is in a position to donate right now. If you can, please consider donating to Allsorts’ #KeepProud campaign. Your generous donations will build on and expand Allsorts’ online services for the duration of social distancing/isolation and beyond, empowering us to continue listening to, supporting and connecting LGBT+ children and young people.
Thank you, stay safe and #KeepProud
Allsorts Youth Project listens to, supports and connects children and young people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans or unsure of their gender identity and/or sexual orientation (LGBT+). With a 3-pronged approach, we challenge exclusion, prejudice and discrimination in all areas of LGBT+ children and young people's lives;
- Direct specialist support for LGBT+ children and young people.
- Support groups for parents/carers of trans and/or gender-questioning children and young people.
- Training to the wider community so that all spaces can be safer and more inclusive for LGBT+ people.
For more information, visit www.allsortsyouth.org.uk or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.