LGBTQ+ support for young people
Over the Rainbow is a part social, part support group for young people aged 13-19 years (up to 25 with additional needs) who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans*, or are questioning their sexuality or gender identity. We run a closed confidential youth group based in St Helens, Merseyside.
The group is run by the Health Improvement team in St Helens Sexual Health Service. We offer information, advice and guidance on a range of issues relevant to young people in general and LGBTQ young people in particular, including coming out, bullying, sexual and emotional and mental health and well-being. If additional support is required e.g. counselling, we will signpost them to an appropriate service.
Our aim is to empower all young people to have positive self-esteem and confidence, to give realisation they are supported, to give them a sense that they are part of a community and never alone, the freedom of expression and opportunity for friendship.
Over the Rainbow It is not a medical service and can not speed up any referrals to any other service. We cannot make referrals to Gender identity services. To discuss a referral to a gender identity service, please speak to your family GP.
To refer a young person you are working with to Over the rainbow please complete the form here. You can download a leaflet about Over the rainbow here.
LGBTQ+ support for Parent/Carers of Trans* and Non-gendered children and young people
We run a closed group for parents of Trans* and Non-Binary children and young people. The group runs on the first Monday of the Month at 10:30 AM. If you are working with a parent or carer and you feel this group may be useful for them, please contact shealth.improvement@sthk.nhs.uk.
You can download a leaflet about OTR parents support group here.
Online support
- The Proud Trust
The Proud Trust is a life-saving and life-enhancing organisation that helps LGBT+ young people empower themselves, to make a positive change for themselves and their communities. We do this through youth groups, coordinating national and regional LGBT+ youth work networks, managing the LGBT+ Centre for Manchester, delivering training, running events and campaigns, undertaking research and creating resources.
- LGBT Foundation
LGBT Foundation is a national charity delivering advice, support and information services to lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBT) communities.
- Stonewall
Stonewall provides Information and support for LGBT communities and their allies.
- FFLAG
FFLAG is a national voluntary organisation and registered charity. We are dedicated to supporting parents and families and their LGBT+ members.
- Mermaids
Mermaids supports transgender, nonbinary and gender-diverse children and young people until their 20th birthday, as well as their families and professionals involved in their care.
- Trans Health Merseyside (THM)
Trans Health Merseyside (THM) is a clinical program, that is a part of our new Cmagic healthcare pathway. THM provides peer mentoring, health and wellbeing information, support with employability issues and support for victims of transphobic hate incidents.
- Open Table
Open Table is an ecumenical Christian worship community that offers a warm welcome to people who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer / Questioning, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA) and all who seek an inclusive Church.
- Stop Hate UK
Stop Hate UK is one of the leading national organisations working to challenge all forms of Hate Crime and discrimination, based on any aspect of an individual's identity. Stop Hate UK provides independent, confidential and accessible reporting and support for victims, witnesses and third parties.
- GALOP
Support LGBT+ people who have experienced abuse and violence. Click here
- MindOut
MindOut is a mental health service run by and for lesbians, gay, bisexual, trans and queer people with experience of mental health issues.
- Sahir House
Our LGBTQ+ Peer-to-Peer Groups offer the opportunity to meet and share experiences and become more involved in Merseyside’s LGBTQ+ community.