To coincide with the launch of next week’s Festival of Ageing, taking place across Greater Manchester 2-15 July, this week as part of our regular Spotlight feature we catch up with Age Concern’s Terri Torevell to find out a little more about Out in the City, Manchester’s over 50’s LGBT social group.

What is Out in the City?

Out in the City is a friendly, over 50s social group for lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people. The group meets weekly and enjoys day trips, walks, coffee mornings and trips to museums and art galleries.

The group is very much led by its members, who are encouraged to suggest ideas for trips out and activities. The group is safe, non-judgemental and all members are supported to be themselves.

Who is it aimed at?

Out in the City is for anyone over 50 who identifies as LGBT. Whilst most of our members are from the Manchester area, we welcome anyone regardless of where you live. It attracts members from Greater Manchester as well as from across the North West.

Is there anything else that people need to know?

The group is welcoming to new members and many have developed friendships for life as a result of getting involved. We’ve found it’s one of very few (if any) groups specifically for older LGBT people in the North West. Come along to a meeting, find out what we are about and meet new people!

If the thought of joining a new group feels overwhelming, we’d be happy to meet with you before the group begins to ensure you are comfortable. Once in the group, you’ll find that everyone is very warm and welcoming.

When do you meet and where can people get more information on this?

The group meets every Wednesday from 1pm to 3pm at Church House, 90 Deansgate, Manchester M3 2GH. Trips out and activities take place on Thursdays. In addition to the friendly company, free refreshments are available.

You can find out more about the group by visiting www.outinthecity05.webs.com or by contacting Sue on 0161 302 4130 / [email protected]. The group also has a member’s blog which all members contribute to at https://outinthecitysite.wordpress.com/.

The Out in the City group is holding a special meeting on 4 July to welcome new members and will be serving a free buffet lunch as well. If you’d like more information visit www.outinthecity05.webs.com