LGBT mental health conference in Cornwall

‘Improving the mental health and well-being of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans communities in Cornwall’

This was the title of a conference held at Truro County Hall, Cornwall on 24^th February 2009. Sara Roberts (Associate Director of Public Health, NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly) is writing the Suicide Reduction Strategy for the county in partnership with local agencies. The day’s events aimed to inform the strategy and alert associated partners to the issues facing the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans population that they are delivering services to.

Around 90 people attended the one-day event that had workshops and presentations. The attendees were drawn form a hugely diverse set of agencies, organisations and individuals to spread the message and provoke as much debate as possible. Diversity Officer Steve Cannon said ‘Services need to become more aware of the needs of the LGBT communities and the extra stresses and strains the communities face. Events such as this, LGBT history month activities and Pride events in the South West are increasing LGBT visibility and enable the communities to have a greater say in service delivery. I am encouraging people to get involved via LGBT PACT in Cornwall so individuals can participate in community events, concerns and social activities’. LGBT PACT can be found on FACEBOOK or for more info email lgbt-pact@hotmail.co.uk