About the Helpline
Our helpline provides thousands of hours of support and advice to thousands of people every year, many who feel like they have nowhere else to turn. The helpline has been running for 45 years, and is staffed by a team of dedicated staff and volunteer operators all of whom receive extensive training and support.
Is there something on your mind?
We are here to offer support and advice on a range of topics. Our service is non-judgement, and we are here to talk through whatever is on your mind.
- Struggling with your mental health?
- Feeling lonely or isolated?
- Thinking about coming out?
- Questioning your gender identity?
- Want some information about sexual health or where to find sexual health testing?
- Being harassed at work because of your sexual orientation or gender identity?
- Need to report a hate crime?
- Want to know about our services or what support is available in your local area?
We understand how anxious you might feel reaching out for support. When you call, you will find someone on the other end of the line with a friendly voice and a listening ear.
Call us on 0345 3 30 30 30 or email [email protected]
Opening Hours
The helpline is open
Weekdays - 9am until 9pm
Saturday & Sunday - 10am until 5.30pm
Email support
You can email the helpline anytime at [email protected] and we will reply to you within 10 working days.
Immediate Support
Despite our hours being extended we are aware that you may be experiencing crisis, if you are then please make use of the following information:
Samaritans (24 hours a day)
Phone: 116 123
http://www.samaritans.org/branches/manchester-and-salford-samaritans
Saneline (6pm-11pm every day of the year)
Phone: 0300 304 7000
http://www.sane.org.uk/what_we_do/support/helpline/
The Gateway Service (9am-7pm)
Phone: 0161 882 2400
Childline (for young people up to 19)
https://www.childline.org.uk/about/about-childline/
If you feel you or someone else is in immediate danger, please call 999.
Additional Support
Our helpline is busier than ever, and there may be times when our phone is engaged. If this happens, and you need to speak with someone right away, here are some additional places you could try to contact for support.
Switchboard LGBT (helpline support for LGBT people)
Phone: 0300 330 0630
Email: [email protected]
Brighton Switchboard (helpline support for LGBT people)
Phone: 01273 359042
https://www.switchboard.org.uk
Give Us A Shout (24hr crisis text service)
Text Switchboard to 85258
MindLine Trans+ (emotional support helpline for trans people)
Phone: 0300 330 5468
Support when experiencing suicidal thoughts
Anybody can experience suicidal thoughts. There's no need to feel ashamed about having them. It's important you reach out, stay strong & get the support you need. We've created a guide for LGBT people experiencing suicidal thoughts
Rainbow Buddies
We can all agree that a chat over a brew is one of life’s greatest simple pleasures, but not everyone always has someone to do this with regularly. Our new telephone befriending programme Rainbow Brew Buddies aims to reduce loneliness for LGBT people across Greater Manchester who may have reduced opportunities to make social connections due to the recent coronavirus outbreak or other circumstances in their life.
The Wellbeing Hub
The coronavirus pandemic is already having an impact on many in our communities, causing uncertainty, anxiety and distress. We've compiled a bank of tools and resources for you to use to help you to manage your mental health and wellbeing in this challenging time.
Thinking About Coming Out?
Some of the most difficult and important decisions in life for lesbian, gay, bi and trans people relate to coming out. Coming out is different for everyone, there are many questions to think about. We've gathered some information and some reflections on coming out from LGBT Foundation and friends.
Have you experienced a hate crime?
LGBT Foundation is a 3rd party hate crime reporting centre. We can support you to report a hate crime, or report it on your behalf. Experiencing hate crime can have a big impact on you, and we are here to ensure that you have the support you need.
