Update (September 11th 2021). The Network is delighted to update that it’s LGBTQ+ homeless support multi agency initiative has now completed it’s first phase of implementation. This week we completed work with Dorset Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust to provide dedicated LGBTQ+ homeless community training & awareness support resources to the Trust’s Steps 2 Wellbeing healthcare professionals and admin (a first component for video training support has been completed and is about to be added too).
In addition after many months of campaigning and representation, including support by a prominent Councillor and Out member of our LGBT+ community in the Bournemouth Poole Christchurch area, the conurbation’s council, homeless forum cane to back our request for developing with us the first ever LGBTQ+ homeless support platform. In addition we have engaged the Dorset PCC to strongly support the Network initiative developing guidance and involvement to the Dorset Police force on the numerous aspects particular to LGBTQ+ homelessness and hidden homeless ‘sofa surfing’ safeguarding and predatory/exploitative very real, well-documented, dangers.
The anchor to this major breakthrough remains of course the mental healthcare support from the NHS in conjunction with the community (as a progression from Network, NHS awareness resources and training that have led to a marked jump in community confidence using Dorset Healthcare’s Steps 2 Wellbeing services).
Having reached this stage, and having completed detailed thematic support resources, mental healthcare & NHS support orientated BUT of value to all who care about making a meaningful change in supporting our LGBTQ+ homeless community, we have a sufficient project first phase experience and implementation base to take to other parts of the UK.