Lothian LGBT Helpline, Information and Advocacy

Who can call the helpline?

The Lothian LGBT Helpline provides telephone support to all members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, their friends and family and those questioning or wanting to discuss their sexuality or gender identity.

Why call the helpline?

You can bring anything to the call. We have access to a wide range of information on, for example, sexual health, support organisations, social groups, the commercial 'scene' and what is going on at the Centre. We are also here for you if you just want to talk. it can be comforting to explore your feelings, get something off your chest or just to know that you are not alone. We can discuss a range of issues with you including sexuality and coming out, gender identity, relationships and sexual and emotional wellbeing. We understand it can be difficult to pick up the phone but please remember that your call is confidential and we are not here to judge or tell you what to do; simply to support you in whatever you are going through.

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Sexual Health

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Our helpline staff are used to talking through all kinds of sexual health issues. We understand that it can feel embarrassing to talk through these kinds of thing with your GP or other professionals and it may not be so easy to talk to a partner about sex. We're not healthcare professionals and we don't have specialised medical knowledge, but are trained and experianced in safer sex matters and in talking about sex, sexuality and sexual health with the people who call us for support or information. If we don't know the answers, we'll signpost you to where you can get it.

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LGBT Hate Crime

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If you have been a victim of an LGBT hate crime or incident our helpline can provide you with immediate support both emotionally and with the practicalities of dealing with what's happened to you. We can help you to decide whether and how to involve the police and can report the incident confidentially on your behalf - even if you wish to remain anonymous. The line can be used to 'remote report' any incident. Remote reporting allows you to report a crime or incident confidentially to a supportive third party, rather than directly to the police. You can remote report anonymously, which can still give the police information that helps them fight hate crime and increase community safety.

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Who will answer your call

The helpline is supported by experienced, trained, friendly, non-judgemental staff who are happy to listen. All staff identify as LGBT

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When is the helpline available?

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We are open every Wednesday between 12:30-7pm on 0131 556 4049, although we will try to answer your call at other times where possible.

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Please note that the Strathclyde Gay & Lesbian Switchboard is open between 7-10pm every night on 0141 847 0447. London Lesbian & Gay Switchboard is open daily 10am-11pm on 020 7837 7324.