Support Services

OutWest offer support to our members and the wider LGBT community on a wide range of issues that affect people on a day to day basis.

This can include accompanying people to the Police Station after being the victim of a hate crime and offering Victim Support, Hospitals for appointments, Housing Authorities for meetings and Solicitors regarding other legal issues (including Immigration and Asylum Seeking).

These services are also available to the Family and Friends of members of the LGBT Community who have concerns and need reassurance and guidance. We ensure that they also have our help and support.

Below are some case studies of members we have helped in the past.

Housing

OutWest were there for me when I was receiving hate mail and homophobic abuse outside my house. OutWest assisted by ensuring that the Local Housing Authority and the Police were involved in making me feel safer and by making my home more secure.

Sexual Health

OutWest helped me by accompanying me to the local Sexual Health Clinic when I needed to get PEP. OutWest guided me through how to get PEP and kept in contact with me throughout the following month to check on my progress.

Advice to Family and Friends

I was shocked when my 11 year old child told our family that they wanted to change sex. Our family were supportive but I wasn't sure where to find support for my family and to check we were doing the right thing. OutWest gave me that initial support and reassurance and gave me guidance towards further support.

Immigration

OutWest helped us by writing to our Solicitor and to the Home Office to support our claim to remain in the UK. The police in our country had published photos of us in the national press and issued a warrant for our arrest because we were gay. With OutWest's support, we have been able to remain in the UK and are safe.

Crime and Victim Support

When I was attacked, OutWest helped me by reassuring me and accompanying me to the Police Station to make statements and have continued to support me throughout my ordeal.

Health

Being HIV Positive and having problems with my neighbours, both my physical and mental health deteriorated. OutWest wrote to my consultant and my landlord which resulted in my neighbours becoming quieter and my health improved. Thank you OutWest.

To make enquiries or to receive support, please contact OutWest in confidence at support@outwest.org.uk or by calling us on 020 8892 5061.