There are a few support groups that gather to help those who feel isolated and want to make connections. The groups include:
Breakout Youth
Breakout Youth is an independent charity covering Hampshire and the Isle of Wight which offers a confidential support service for young people aged 11 to 25, who are LGBTQ+, unsure or questioning. Support ranges from virtual group
sessions and one-to-one support online and in person when Covid conditions allow.
https://www.breakoutyouth.org.uk/
Queer & Now
Queer & Now CIC is a not-for-profit organisation providing pop-up events on the Isle of Wight for LGBTQ+ Islanders and Visitors. We work with friendly bars, restaurants and cafes across the Island and put on dedicated regular events, in an exclusive environment for the queer community.
Time For T
An open and inclusive support group for all trans, gender non-conforming and questioning people on the Isle of Wight,
as well as their close families, serving all ages from 8 to 80+. There is a private facebook page and regular meetings.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/712920185585178
Wight LGBTQ+ Women
A social and support group for LGBTQ+ women aged 18 and over on the Isle of Wight. It has a private Facebook page and you can follow the group on Twitter @WightLGBTQWomen. Contact Caroline Diamond to learn more or email: lesbianandbiwomen@gmail.com
Follow Wight LGBTQ+ Women on Twitter: @WightLGBTQWomen
NHS Sexual Health
The Solent NHS Trust provides a full range of sexual health services including free postal STI testing kits, free condoms/lube and access to PrEP (HIV Prevention Medication).
They are a lovely, diverse team who do not judge and use pronouns respectfully.
Appointments are private and confidential.
The Isle of Wight clinic is based at St. Mary’s Hospital in Newport.
Having unprotected penetrative sex is the most likely way to pass on a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Using a condom helps protect against HIV and lowers the risk of getting many other STIs.
A survey of gay and bisexual men by Stonewall revealed that 1 in 3 men had never had an HIV test, and 1 in 4 had never been tested for any STI.
Men who have sex with men (MSM) should have a check-up at least every 6 months at a sexual health or genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic.
This is important, as some STIs do not cause any symptoms.
https://www.letstalkaboutit.nhs.uk
0300 300 2016
