We’re pleased to update that we are now operating our helpline service again.
Due to our office closure and staff working from home we have a new helpline number which you can reach us on if you could use a friendly chat with another LGBTQ person: 01273 359042. This is a temporary number which we will be using until we are able to safely return to our office.
Our opening hours are the same as before, Weds – Thurs, 7pm – 9.30pm, however we will be extending our helpline and web chat provision shortly, we will do another update once this is in place on our website and across our social media channels.
We know this is a challenging and uncertain time for us all and our priority is to ensure that we are here for everyone who needs us.
We do not want to leave anyone isolated and without support so we are working to find ways we can continue to offer our services using phones and online technology. Here is a brief update on what each of our projects are doing:
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- Older People’s Project – We will be supporting members directly through the phone and email – we will also start Zoom video chat social groups if people are interested in this. Contact [email protected]
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- Grief Encounters – We will continue to run the Grief Meets group on Zoom, and will have themed sessions from guest facilitators. We will also be in contact with current Grief Encounters service users via email and phone to support. Contact [email protected]
- Grief Encounters – We will continue to run the Grief Meets group on Zoom, and will have themed sessions from guest facilitators. We will also be in contact with current Grief Encounters service users via email and phone to support. Contact [email protected]
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- Disability Group – We will be hosting weekly Zoom social groups every Wednesday afternoon (starting from tomorrow, 1st April). Initially these groups will be a social hang out but in the future we may have themes and guests as we learn what works and what people want. In addition, we have been supporting members via email, phone and through our Facebook group. Contact [email protected]
- Disability Group – We will be hosting weekly Zoom social groups every Wednesday afternoon (starting from tomorrow, 1st April). Initially these groups will be a social hang out but in the future we may have themes and guests as we learn what works and what people want. In addition, we have been supporting members via email, phone and through our Facebook group. Contact [email protected]
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- Rainbow Cafe – We will be contacting members regularly via the phone, we will also start a Zoom group if people would like one. Contact [email protected]
- Trans Link social prescribing – We have successfully recruited a new Trans Link project worker who’s now in post and will be relaunching this service in the next couple of weeks offering one to one support via phone, text or video chat.
All of our staff are working from home and they are available to support you. Please get in touch with a member of our staff via email if you would like someone to call you – you can find all of their contact details on our website here. You can also contact us at [email protected].
Please sign-up to our weekly newsletter to get up to date information on all our services directly in your inbox. Sign-up here.
Other Support Services
There are countless organisations and groups in the City working tirelessly to support people during the Coronavirus pandemic. Information is changing all the time and the amount of information can be quite overwhelming so here’s a round-up of a few of the most frequent support requests. Please do get in touch at [email protected] if you have any specific support requests and we will do our best to signpost you.
Brighton and Hove Mutual Aid Group
Local Facebook group set up by residents for people looking to help each other out during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Brighton COVID-19 Mutual Aid Facebook group
Hove COVID-19 Mutual Aid Facebook group
The Clare Project Support Line
The Clare Project have opened a support line for trans, non-binary, intersex, and/or gender-questioning/exploring adults. The line is anonymous and confidential, aimed at those based in East Sussex.
Call or text: 07464 229395
Opening Hours:
Monday: 1-4pm
Tuesday: 1-4pm
Wednesday: CLOSED
Thursday: 5:30-7:30pm
Friday: 1-4pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
You can call during opening times or text/whatsapp/leave a voicemail for a call back.
If you are calling for urgent medical advice, please call 111 or in an emergency 999. If you are in crisis and/or experiencing significant distress, we also advise calling Samaritans on 116 123.
You can email [email protected], text or whatsapp the above number any time but please be aware that response may not be immediate. Please note call costs to this mobile number do apply, but you’re welcome to text/email for a call back.
Coronavirus Food Access
Getting food is a concern for many, if this is something you need support with the Brighton and Hove Food Partnership are constantly updating their website with food providers.
Lunch Positive are also now providing home delivery of free meals and food items to anyone with HIV in need. Contact for support should be made through their website, or call them on 07846 464384.
Ageing Well Coronavirus Support
Ageing Well have put together a comprehensive directory of support services for older people in Brighton and Hove who may be facing difficulties due to Coronavirus. This is updated every couple of days.
The Ageing Well Teams can also be contacted on 07770 061072 Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and can chat through what you need or what your interests are and help you find something that will help you maintain your physical and emotional health at this time. View their online directory here.