Who we are & What we do

• GAY-GLOS was founded as a Helpline in September 1989.
  

  We formed as a local group (then called Gloucestershire Friend) born out of a need for a Helpline for gay and lesbian people in Gloucestershire and the surrounding counties. We embarked on a six month set-up, fund raising and volunteer training programme.
  In March 1990 we started to operate our Telephone Helpline, Postal Service and Face to Face Meeting Service.
  We changed our name in 1997 to Gay & Lesbian Friend Helpline (Gloucestershire) and in 2005 to GAY-GLOS.
  Our FAQ #10 "How did you start and what is your history?" gives more detail.
  

• We now provide a range of services for anyone concerned about their sexuality or gender.
  
  
• We support people who are:
  • gay
  • lesbian
  • bisexual
  • transvestite
  • transsexual
  • straight
  • not sure, questioning or exploring their sexuality
  • feeling isolated
  • family members
  • friends
    
    
• We provide free and confidential services to people in Gloucestershire and beyond including:
  • Telephone Helpline
  • Email Helpline
  • Face to Face Meetings
  • Social Calendar
  • Education
  • Training
  • Strategic Engagement
    
    
• We can be contacted by telephone, email or post.
  
  
• Our services are provided by trained volunteers and are confidential.
  
  
• We are a locally run voluntary organisation, recently funded by:
  • Gloucestershire County Council
  • Gloucestershire Constabulary
  • Gloucester City Council
  • Earned Income
  • Fund Raising events
  • Private donations
    
    
• We work closely with many local voluntary and statutory agencies.
  
  
• We provide external training on gay and lesbian related issues including equality and diversity.
  
  
• We deliver sessions to many secondary school pupils in Gloucestershire as part of Personal Social & Health Education and Citizenship curricula.
  
  
• We run regular events and activities for "GAY-GLOS social" members as detailed on our Social Calendar page.
     Other events from details sent in by website visitors are advertised on our News page.
  
  
• We are an equal opportunities organisation supporting equality and diversity.
  
  
• Our patron is Sir Ian McKellen.

Please see our Frequently Asked Questions page for further details.