New LGBTQIA+ support project launches in Louth and Newry

Outcomers LGBT+ Support Service based in Dundalk is launching a new two-year PEACEPLUS programme in County Louth and the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council area. The PEACEPLUS LGBTQIA+ Capacity Building and Community Empowerment Programme will combine a community outreach project in rural and cross-border areas with a public sector awareness raising initiative providing professional LGBT+ training.

The programme is now getting under way, with an official launch taking place on 16 September at 11am in Wellington Hall, Dundalk, followed by opportunities to participate over the coming months. Outcomers is a not-for-profit LGBT+ support and befriending service, serving LGBT+ people, families and communities in Louth, Meath, Cavan and Monaghan since 1996. It has been contracted by Louth County Council to deliver the programme as part of the County Louth PEACEPLUS Action Plan, a cross-border funding programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body.

Over the next two years, participants in County Louth and Newry, Mourne and Down District will be supported to take part in a cross-border programme designed to increase awareness, understanding and respect for LGBT+ people. Activities will include peer and social groups, coffee and craic sessions, talks and guest speakers, facilitated discussions exploring issues affecting local communities, and cross-border visits designed to encourage shared learning and build connections.

Professional LGBT+ inclusion training will also be available to people working in the public and voluntary sectors, focusing on increasing understanding of LGBT+ experiences and developing culturally sensitive and inclusive services, with the aim of helping organisations create safer and more welcoming services for LGBT+ people.

Outreach Facilitator Annie Blake said, "A big part of what we want to create is opportunities for LGBT+ people in rural areas to meet and take part in activities in a relaxed and welcoming environment. We'll be developing the programme with the people taking part, so I'm particularly looking forward to hearing what participants want from it and building activities around the communities we're working with."

People interested in taking part can follow Outcomers on Instagram @outcomerslgbt for programme updates or call Outcomers on 042 932 9816. Further information on PEACEPLUS is available at seupb.eu/peaceplus