New LGBT youth group in Galway

Meet up with other LGBT young people at weekends.

LGBT Youth Galway is a new youth group for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) or simply uncertain individuals aged between 14 and 23 years old.

The group is run by professional youth workers and volunteers, following the model of BelongTo in Dublin.

The youth group provides a safe space away from the alcohol scene for young LGBT people to socialise with each other and be themselves. Through a varied programme of activities, young people are facilitated in personal exploration, development and growth, with a strong emphasis on confidence building, peer support and making friends.

The youth group also works to provide services and a voice for LGBT youth, enabling them to access all their rights as equal citizens and empowering them to participate as agents in positive social change.

Young people are involved in the running and planning of the group. There are a number of volunteer youth leaders that have been very active in getting the group off the ground. The youth leaders are in charge of having their ears to the ground and work with the youth group in planning activities and projects.

The group meets at weekends. There are also plans to carry out workshops and campaigns with the local schools.

When a new member contacts the group, a youth worker and a volunteer meet with him or her to provide support and information about the group. Some young people may feel anxious about coming along to the group when they don’t know anybody. These “ice-breaker” meetings provide an opportunity for the teenagers to have a first contact and a one-to-one support before they decide they are ready to come along to the youth group.

Some teenagers stay in contact with the youth workers by email for some time before they can meet with them. Some of the young people have never talked about their identity with anyone, which can cause a lot of stress and isolation during the teenage years. This new group provides a safe outlet for these young people to make contact, ask questions and get the support that they need.

If you would like to find out more information call or text 0873204575, email curiousgalway@gmail.com or check the website www.LGBTyouthgalway.com

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