THEGAYUK

Category: Front Page

  • Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus win a Golden Handbag Award

    Brighton’s Gay Men’s Chorus have won the award for Favourite LGBT Community Social/Leisure Organisation at the 2013 Golden Handbag Awards.

    The Golden Handbags show took place Sunday 23 June at the Hilton Brighton Metropole, with the winners voted for by readers of Gscene magazine. The annual awards show has been dubbed ‘Brighton’s Gay Oscars’, recognising people and organisations within Brighton’s LGBT scene whilst also raising money for good causes

    Chairman Paul Charlton said:

    “We are delighted to receive this award and I know it will mean a lot to all of the boys. There are lots of fantastic community groups in Brighton and Hove so it was a great honour to win! Our membership has increased to around 80 people in the last year, and each one of those members – with the musical expertise of our fabulous MD Marc Yarrow and Assistant MD Tim Nail – has worked so hard to make us the group we are today. I would also like to thank all of the people who voted us and hope to see many of you at our next show!”

    Musical Director Marc Yarrow said:

    “I’m delighted that the Chorus have been recognised with this award. I’ve worked with many different choirs before but what sets Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus apart is the fantastic feeling of inclusivity and support among the members. I also love that we are able to provide exciting musical opportunities for gay men in Brighton. It’s been lovely to help the boys flourish with fantastic achievements such as performing annually at Brighton Dome, recording a single and going to Manchester to win the 2013 Manchester Amateur Choral Competition. Thank you to all who voted for allowing us to add the Golden Handbag Award to that list, and well done to all of the other winners and nominees on the night.”

    The award is more good news for the Chorus who were also the winners of the 2013 Manchester Amateur Choral Competition earlier this year.

    The next chance to see the award-winning Chorus is in their forthcoming show ‘Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus: Taken From Behind (The Scenes)’, part of Brighton Pride Arts & Film Festival, Friday 19th and Saturday 20th June, St George’s Church, St George’s Road, Kemptown. The show is billed as an exclusive look at what really happens behind the scenes of a Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus show, with lots of backstage shocks promised. Tickets are £12/£10 and available at www.brightongmc.org, the Dome Box Office 01273 709709 and from the Prowler shop, St James St.

  • THEATRE REVIEW | Address Unknown, Soho Theatre

    ★★★★ | Address Unknown

    Is it possible to explain the incomprehensible? How can anyone begin to understand what would make a man abandon a deep friendship in favour of joining a radical political movement? ‘Address Unknown’ is a stunning play from 1938 in which Kathrine Kressman looks at just these issues.

    Max and Martin are close friends with strong bonds but when Martin moves back to his native Germany a rift grows between them; a rift that will eventually lead to rejection, betrayal and revenge. The problem being that Max is Jewish and Martin is beguiled by the emerging National Socialist Movement and becomes an official in the Nazi party.

    Max and Martin are close friends with strong bonds but when Martin moves back to his native Germany a rift grows between them; a rift that will eventually lead to rejection, betrayal and revenge. The problem being that Max is Jewish and Martin is beguiled by the emerging National Socialist Movement and becomes an official in the Nazi party.

    It’s a powerful piece, well staged and well acted by the two men and is much more than a dry political commentary. The story is a very human one which subtly unfolds in a well paced and intriguing manner and makes the audience both squirm in horror and laugh with glee.

    It’s a powerful piece, well staged and well acted by the two men and is much more than a dry political commentary. The story is a very human one which subtly unfolds in a well paced and intriguing manner and makes the audience both squirm in horror and laugh with glee.

    He has a good point. Essential viewing for our modern times.

    ‘Address Unknown’ runs at The Soho Theatre until the 27th of July 2013

    Book tickets here: http://www.sohotheatre.com/whats-on/address-unknown

  • Launch of new domestic abuse counselling

    PACE is pleased to offer a new counselling service for LGBT people who have experienced or are experiencing domestic abuse.

    Domestic abuse can and does occur in same sex and trans relationships. Counselling can help those who have experienced domestic abuse overcome trauma, recover and rebuild their lives. It can provide a safe, non-judgemental environment to work through the impact of both past and continuing abuse.

    Kath Blake Counselling Service Manager at PACE says,

    “it can be difficult to recognise when a relationship becomes abusive and many people hide their experiences. Discussing situations with a trained professional can enable people to make changes and deal with the multiple challenges that people in abusive intimate partner relationships face”.

     

    This service is free, and part of DAP, a new domestic abuse partnership offering practical help with, for example, housing and legal issues, as well as providing emotional support and counselling.

    The DAP is made up of 5 LGBT agencies who each provide different services for LGBT victims/survivors of domestic abuse. With one phone call, you will be linked in with Stonewall Housing, Galop, Pace, London Lesbian and Gay Switchboard, and Broken Rainbow.

     

    If you’re currently experiencing abuse in your relationship, have recently come out of an abusive relationship or have experienced abuse from a family member, do get in touch with PACE.

    We offer up to 12 sessions of individual counselling to those living in all London boroughs.

    Info and enquiries: 020 7700 1323 or email dacounselling@pacehealth.org.uk

  • Petition To Pedestrianise Old Compton Street Launched

    The gayest street in Soho could look very different soon if a petition to Westminster Council is successful in lobbying for pedestrianisation of the iconic Old Compton Street.

    (more…)

  • Trafalgar Square and Dean Street Line Up Announced For Pride In London

    Pride in London announces the line up for two stages in the centre of London on the 29th June 2013.

    (more…)

  • The £1m goal to open gay hostel in memory of murdered son

    The £1m goal to open gay hostel in memory of murdered son

    The mother and father of a gay teenager who was murdered in 2008 have vowed to open a £1m gay hostel in his name.

    Michael Causer
    CREDIT: Michael Causer Foundation

     

    Marie and Mike Causer have begun a campaign to raise £1 million to open a hostel for LGBT Youth at risk. Their aim is to provide temporary emergency care for gay and lesbians who are at risk of living on the streets.

    Marie and Mike Causer set up the Michael Causer Foundation to provide housing and support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) young people at risk in northwest England.

    Marie Causer said,

    “I want money people have donated in Michael’s memory to be used to help young people.”

    “These youngsters need somewhere to go where they feel safe and are surrounded by people who have gone through a similar experience.”

    Mrs Causer hopes to help young people aged 16-25.

    “I did not want a stone or a plaque to be put up in his memory. I wanted to do something worth doing and I am very lucky to have the support of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community behind me.

    In August, it will be five years since Michael died

    Marie added,

    “I miss him so much. I think it’s his personality. He was a strong person and his personality outshone everything. I’ve met people just like Michael and I think if I give up who is going to be there for them?

    “We need this house, we need accommodation for them. People say to me ‘if Michael wasn’t gay, would you be doing this?’ I say ‘yes’. Michael used to call the bingo and do events for charity. So, on some level, I’m helping because he would.”

    The Michael Causer Foundation’s Development Worker, Kieran Bohan, was appointed in April to help achieve its vision: to create a society where LGBT young people feel safe, happy and understood; at home in their communities; and supported and empowered to achieve their full potential.

    Kieran said,

    ‘I was on a stall at a youth centre when I overheard a child explain to her friend how Michael died, “He was killed because he loved another boy.”

    ‘If a ten-year-old can understand that no-one deserves to die because of who they are or who they love, then everybody can.’

    The Foundation aims to raise £1m by 2015 to create a safe haven and provide round-the-clock support.

    The first openly gay Lord Mayor in the country, Cllr Gary Millar, a trustee of the Foundation, took on the role of first citizen of Liverpool in May.

    To boost their efforts, he has nominated the Michael Causer Foundation as one of four charities he will support during his year in office.

    On the anniversary of Michael’s death each year, the Foundation leads a vigil in Temple Square, in Liverpool’s Stanley Street Quarter.

    Marie’s son, Michael Causer was brutally murdered five years ago, was 18-years-old at the time of his attack.

    Michael’s family believe was assaulted because of his sexuality, at a house party in Merseyside, he died 10 days later in the Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery after undergoing extensive emergency surgery to his brain. However Michael’s killer was sentenced on the basis it was not a hate crime.

    Two men were charged with murder, James O’Connor and Gavin Alker. Alker was acquitted of murder and manslaughter; O’Connor was convicted and sentenced to service life, with a minimum of 11 and half years before he could be considered for parole.

    For more information please visit:www.michaelcauserfoundation.org.uk

  • Top 10 Things You Need To Survive Pride: The Pride Survival Kit

    Top 10 Things You Need To Survive Pride: The Pride Survival Kit

    Pride season is upon us once again. Here’s a list of 13 essential items to help you to have a safe and enjoyable pride.

    Pop these items in your man-bag and call it: The Pride Survival Kit.

     

    1. Pride Map / Guide –

    Most offer Pride organisers offer a Pride map and guide, whether it be printed when you buy tickets or on their website online. Pop a copy in your Survival Kit and you’ll never be lost in the world of Pride or miss any of the big events. Did you know that TheGayUK has an App that you find directions to your nearest Pride. Visit: www.app.thegayuk.com

    2. Mobile / Smart Phone –

    These are great to keep in contact with your friends, partner or significant others at Pride. But should something go horribly wrong, in an emergency you can dial 999 and ask for the Police, an Ambulance or Fire and Rescue Services to attend.

    3. Emergency Mobile / Smart Phone Charger –

    Your mobile’s no good if the battery has gone flat, so carry an Emergency Mobile Phone Charger. There are a variety of these devices on the market and they all have different features, such as: solar panel charging, disposable – one use only, super fast charging, etc.

    4. A 24-Hour Supply of Any Medication You Take–

    Your transport home might be delayed or you might not get home at all. Take a 24-hour supply of any medication you take, so that you don’t miss a dose.

    If you’re planning to have a drink of the alcoholic variety, check beforehand that it’s OK to mix your medication with alcohol. If you’re unsure speak to your GP or prescribing health care professional who will be able to tell you.

    5. Painkillers –

    There’s nothing worse than being in pain to spoil your Pride mood. Take some painkillers and avoid being the member of the group who’s not in the mood because of pain.

    6. Emergency Money –

    It’s always good to be prepared for the unexpected. Emergency money will cover costs because of an unexpected event at Pride. How much emergency money you put to one side is up to you and depends up on your circumstances.

    7. Sun Protection Lotion –

    In the UK we have ever-changing weather; it can be pouring down with rain one minute and the next the sun is cracking flags. Taking sun protection will stop you burning and protect against potential UV damage when the sun comes out at Pride.

    8. Condoms & Lube –

    At Pride you may meet someone and hook up with them. Whether or not you’re planning to hook up, take condoms and lube. Then if something happens you wont have to worry about the unprotected sex the morning after.

    Some pubs and clubs do provide safer sex packs, but don’t rely on these. The pub may have stopped providing them since the last time you were there, or there may have been a rush and are out of stock.

    Condoms & lube are provided free at your local sexual health clinic. If you are worried because you’ve had unprotected sex, the sexual health clinic can also undertake testing and offer support. For more information visit The Gay UK Sexual Health Site.

    9. Bottle of Water –

    Staying well hydrated will protect against sunstroke (along with sun protection lotion) and will also lessen or prevent alcohol-related hangovers.

    10. Safety Clips & A Spare Pair of Pants –

    If you’re in the Pride Parade safety clips are essential, as costumes don’t always stay together. Even if you’re not taking part in the Pride Parade safety clips are still useful to have.

    We’ve all had wardrobe malfunctions at the most inconvenient of times and a safety clip or a spare pair of pants can prevent that ground-open-up-and-swallow-me-now moment.

    11. Alcohol Hand Rub –

    Toilets, especially outdoor ones soon become unclean. Alcohol hand rub used after a visit to the toilet will keep your hands hygienic.

    12. Lollipops / Sweets / Other Snacks –

    Keeping your sugar-levels up with lollipops, sweets and other snacks will provide your body with plenty of energy. This will mean that you can enjoy Pride to the fullest.

    13. Ear Plugs –

    These are great if the music gets too much. They also prevent your ears from ringing or buzzing the day after Pride.

    Pride is a celebratory event where we come together to celebrate our sexuality as part of who we are. Gay people throw a great party, but there’s always a potential for things to go wrong. The Pride Survival Kit if carried in full or part is likely to reduce the risk of something going wrong for you. We hope that you have a safe and truly fantastic Pride.

     

  • EDINBURGH | Just over a week until Pride Scotia

    TheGayUK is happy to annouce that in just over a week Pride Scotia, Edinburgh’s very own pride parade will take to the streets.

    The march will assemble outside Scottish Parliament from 11:30 – and will move promptly at noon on the 15th June 2013

    The march route will be High Street, crossing in portions at North Bridge.

    A pause outside the City Chambers for speeches. March resumes along George IV Bridge to Bristo Square.

    TheGayUK is a proud media sponsor of Pride Scotia – we’ll be bringing you news about Pride events in Edinburgh during the forthcoming week.

  • Tavistock Centre for LGBT Couple Relationships awarded silver chartermark

    The Tavistock Centre for Couple Relationships (TCCR) is delighted to announce that it has recently been awarded an eQuality chartermark by PACE (a leading Charity promoting LGBT mental health and wellbeing). TCCR received this award for demonstrating its commitment to inclusive practice in its work with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) couples.

    The eQuality Award is a quality mark for mainstream relationship services that show they have high standards of service for LGBT clients.

     

    On 25th April, TCCR was presented with a special Silver Award at a celebration event held at the House of Commons.

    TCCR’s CEO, Susanna Abse speaking at the event said, “We are delighted to have received this award and have been working closely with PACE to ensure that we offer quality therapy services tailored to the needs of all people, including LGBT people. PACE has provided us with a great deal of support and we are grateful for their suggestions and the thoughtful way in which they have worked with us. ”

    Through the process of consultation offered by PACE, TCCR was able to develop robust policies that reflect its commitment to the eQuality agenda at all levels of the organisation. This is reflected in the dramatic increase in referrals from same-sex couples to the organisation over the past year.

    To find out more about the eQuality chartermark visit: www.e-qualitymark.net

    To find out more about TCCR services visit: www.tccr.org.uk or www.tccr.ac.uk

  • Birmingham Mail columnist asks Pride attendeees to lisp and mince

    Columnist Mike Lockley at the Birmingham Mail writes a series of homophobic remarks about people attending Birmingham Pride.

    In a column entitled: ‘Mike Lockley ‘I didn’t mince my words at festival’ hosted on the Birmingham Mail website Lockley made a series openly mocking, offensive and homophobic remarks to describe revellers at Birmingham Pride this year.

     

    Speaking to one reveller Lockley writes that he asked: “Would you mind awfully facing our video camera and lisping ‘I’m free’ while flicking your wrist?

    “Then if you could mince out of….”

    “That,” hissed the reveller, “is exactly the outdated and offensive image of gay men we are attempting to break free from.”

    “Fair enough,” I nodded. “How about a petulant ‘Shut that door’?”

    The lines refer to various catch phrases that a number of TV entertainers used in the 1970s and 80s, which is now seen by many as a dated and offensive view of gay people.
    Lockley described as ‘Midlands Columnist of The Year, was clearly upset by being asked to cover the festivities in Birmingham, writing,

    “Why I, a reporter who cut his teeth in the 1970s, a time when there was a role for openly gay men (Widow Twankey in the local amdram society’s Christmas performance of Aladdin), was chosen to provide coverage at the lavish event remains a mystery.”

    When his editor said,

    “The gay community has had a terrible cross to bear.”

    Lockley replied with:

    “They didn’t have to listen to that crap music,”

    I argued.

    “I mean, I’d be loathe to come out if meant an eternity of Kylie’s greatest hits.”

  • Lords vote in Favour of Gay Marriage

    In an unprecedented and historic move, Peers in the House of Lords have voted overwhelmingly in favour of the same-sex marriage bill.

    After two days of heated debate in the House of Lords, Peers voted in favour of same-sex marriage, after Lord Dear, former Chief Constable of the West Midlands Police Force tabled a ‘wrecking’ and ‘fatal’ amendment potentially denying the same-sex marriage bill its second reading.

    Peers voted 390 votes to 148, a majority of 242 votes meaning that the Lords allowed the passage of the bill to the committee stage.

    Taking to Twitter human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell wrote,

    “Lords vote a landslide victory for love, marriage & equality: 390 in favour, 148 against. YOUR lobbying efforts helped us win. HUGE thanks

    “With this huge Lords victory, we are on schedule for the first same-sex weddings late this summer. Hurrah”

    The debate initially commenced on Monday at 3:00pm and continued until 10:45pm, it resumed on Tuesday afternoon and concluded with Peers voting.

    Stonewall Chief Executive Ben Summerskill said,

    “‘We’re absolutely delighted. We always expected a tough challenge in the House of Lords, and Lord Dear’s “fatal motion” – very rarely used – demonstrates the lengths to which a minority of peers are, sadly, still prepared to go to deny full equality to lesbian, gay and bisexual people.

    “In the last 24 hours alone, opponents of equality in the House of Lords have compared loving, committed relationships to incest and polygamy. Britain’s 3.7 million gay people don’t deserve to be second class citizens in their own country. A tough fight lies ahead and we’ll continue to work tirelessly every single day to get equal marriage through the Lords. At Stonewall, we fight to win.”