LGBTQ project ‘Freedom’ by Off the Record Bristol nominated in the UK’s Largest Diversity Awards.
Mental health charity Off the Record Bristol is delighted to announce that Freedom, its youth LGBTQ project, has been nominated in the Community Organisation category at The 2015 National Diversity Awards, which take place in Liverpool on 18th September.
Freedom is a service for LGBTQ people aged 13-25, delivered by Off the Record Bristol; providing a fun, safe, social space for LGBTQ young people to meet each other, discuss issues important to them and have their voices heard.
The project is nominated for a diversity award which strives to celebrate the excellent and inspiring achievements of positive role models and community organisations from across the UK. The awards aim to recognise nominees in their respective fields of diversity including age, disability, gender, race, faith, religion and sexual orientation.
Hannah Greenslade, Youth Support Worker (LGBTQ) at Off the Record, said:
“Many of us question our sexuality or gender at some point in our lives. This can be a confusing and isolating process, especially if those around you don’t understand. Freedom gives a vital space for young people in Bristol to meet, gain a sense of identity and feel part of a community. We’re really pleased that our work has been recognised and we can’t wait for the awards in September!”
Dr. Simon Newitt, Chief Executive of Off the Record Bristol, added:
“This nomination for Freedom is testimony to collective efforts of the project to empower LGBTQ youth. We’re proud that Freedom is youth-led and facilitates social events, workshops, activism and campaigning. As well as being fun and informal, Freedom offers specialist one-to-one and group support, including counselling”.
The National Diversity Awards recognise individuals and groups from grassroots communities who have contributed to creating a more diverse and inclusive society. The largest diversity awards ceremony of its kind has attracted a growing list of top employers such as Sky, Financial Ombudsman Service and Price Waterhouse Coopers. The prestigious black-tie event has also gained support from a number of celebrities including Stephen Fry, Misha B and Ade Adepitan.
Paul Sesay, Chief Executive of The National Diversity Awards said:
“It is an honour to witness the extraordinary journeys of Britain’s unsung diversity heroes, and we will continue to recognise their extraordinary achievements during 2015. I know another fantastic spectacle of role models will be delivered and recognised this year”.
Freedom is open to anyone that identifies as LGBTQ or is questioning their sexuality – no labels applied. For more information or for an informal chat, contact lgbtq@otrbristol.org.uk or give Hannah a call on 07814 250751.
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Off the Record Bristol is currently celebrating an astonishing 50th anniversary of delivering free, self-referral and confidential mental health support to young people in Bristol. This nomination for Freedom comes hot off the heels of the charity scooping a GSK award for its social impact.