Knowsley’s first LGBT+ network starts

Stockbridge Gemz, Knowsley’s first adult LGBT+ network, hosted its first support group in January.

Set up by Stockbridge Village resident Liz Sharpe, people aged 18+ were invited to the drop-in session at The Craigs Community Centre. It was a chance to meet new friends, socialise and find out what organisations or services are available to them depending on any issues they may be facing.

Stockbridge Gemz offers the LGBT+ community in Stockbridge, and the wider borough, a new support network. It was set up in response to a research project led by Lancaster University in partnership with ForHousing and local Resident Advisors. 

The project revealed high levels of social isolation experienced by members of the LGBT+ community in Knowsley and so highlighted a lack of provision for these adults.

Shelley Powell, cabinet member for communities and neighbourhoods, said: “The first session marks the beginning of a fantastic and important service for our residents. I’m delighted that our LGBT+ community now have the opportunity to seek any guidance they may need to help make a positive difference in their lives.”

The group will meet every third Sunday of the month, with the next session taking place at the same venue and time on Sunday 9 February 2020, from 5-7pm.
For further info on future sessions follow @GemzStockbridge on Twitter or email stockbridge.gemz@gmail.com