Today marks the end of LGBT+ History Month.
During the month we have been highlighting how residents can explore the LGBT+ experience through literature and how the community themselves can contribute items that reflect their lives to the archive service.
As part of the month of activity the Council and its partners also want to raise awareness of the support that is available to members of the LGBT+ community in Knowsley – this includes people who may be trans or have other gender identities. The Council is particularly keen to share support for these members of the community after the recent tragic murder of transgender teenager, Brianna Ghey in Warrington.
Cllr Shelley Powell, Knowsley’s Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Communities said:
“We know that recent events in the region could be particularly concerning for people who are transgender or have other gender identities. Here in Knowsley, we want to make sure that everyone has access to the support and help they need to suit their own personal circumstances and needs.
It is important to remember that no matter what your situation is, help and support is always available – you are not alone.”
SUPPORT YOUNG PEOPLE
The Action Youth (Trans Health Education) (YPAS) is a group that supports young people aged 11-18 years old who identify as: trans, gender questioning, or young people whose gender identity (internal sense of self) does not match with their assigned gender at birth – www.liverpoolcamhs.com/support/the-action-youth-trans-health-education-ypas/
Kooth provides online support and counselling, information, advice and support for young people in secondary schools. Find out more on Kooth’s website.
Young Minds offers lots of practical tips and advice and real-life stories from other young people who have struggled with their mental health and how they got through it. Parents and carers who are concerned about their child’s mental health (up to the age of 25) can get advice from their confidential helpline – call free on 0808 802 5544. Lines are open 9.30am to 4.00pm, Monday to Friday. You can also access webchat and email advice via the website visit www.youngminds.org.uk
Knowsley Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) works with young people up to the age of 18 who have emotional, behavioural or mental health difficulties which are causing difficulties in their school, family or social life. Speak to your GP, health visitor, social worker or school health advisor who will be able to refer you into this specialist service.
Papyrus is for children and young people under the age of 35 who are experiencing thoughts of suicide, or anyone concerned about a young person. Find out more by calling 0800 068 41 41 or visit www.papyrus-uk.org
SUPPORT FOR OVER 18s
Here the Trans Support Service (provided by Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust) outline the services they offer and where it fits into the local gender dysphoria pathway – www.merseycare.nhs.uk/our-services/liverpool/trans-support-service
The Terrance Higgins Trust also share a comprehensive list of agencies who offer a range of support for a variety of issues www.tht.org.uk/hiv-and-sexual-health/sexual-health/trans-people/resources
Sexual health clinics for trans and non-binary people
Butterfly Clinic is a sexual health clinic in Liverpool and Knowsley for trans and non-binary folk. Click here to find out when and where you can access specialist advice www.axess.clinic/services/butterfly-clinic/
Hate Crime
Galop is a charity that support LGBT+ people who’ve experienced hate crime, domestic abuse or sexual violence. Their helpline can be reached on 0800 999 5428 or visit their website https://galop.org.uk/
If it feels like the situation could get heated or violent very soon or if someone is in immediate danger call 999 straight away.
You can report hate crime online or call 101.
If you’d prefer to speak to a police officer in person visit a police station, Merseyside Police can provide a safe and comfortable environment at any of their police stations.
Alternatively, if you don’t feel comfortable reporting it to the police you can report it to Stop Hate UK 0800 138 1625.
Reports can also be made, and safety can be found at Merseyside Fire and Rescue stations across Knowsley and Merseyside.