Outcomers booklet to support young LGBT people

Dundalk Outcomers, in conjunction with Jigsaw Meath, is launching a publication, 'Young People Talking’ in Meath on 19th April.
This booklet is the response of young Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) people to a series of interview questions exploring some of the common issues in their lives. Questions like: 'When did you first start to realise that you might be LGBT?’ 'Who did you tell first?’ and 'Have you personally experienced homophobia?’ create an insight into the challenges that young LGBT people face growing up in the North East Region and how they can overcome them.
'Young People Talking’ has two aims. The first is to support young LGBT people by allowing them to read stories about other LGBT experiences and reassuring them that they are not alone. The second aim is to raise awareness in the wider community, helping people understand some of the issues and challenges faced by young LGBT people.
Bernie Quinn, project manager for Dundalk Outcomers, explained: “One of our objectives with this project is to visit schools in the North East Region with trained members of our organisation, helping young people who are struggling with topics discussed in this booklet.”
The project was made possible by the generous support of the Department of Children and Youth Affairs through the Young Peoples Facilities and Services Fund, Dundalk.  The publication of 'Young People Talking’ was aided by the Community Foundation for Ireland.  The Equality Authority of Ireland provided further support to help young AIM members present the booklet to their peers in schools and youth service settings.
For further information about this project or Dundalk Outcomers, contact Bernie Quinn or John Ruddy on (042) 932 9816 or email info@outcomers.org