Cara-Friend has been serving and empowering the LGBTQIA+ community in Northern Ireland since 1974. We provide:
WHO WE ARE
LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Business Charter
The LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Business Charter is an invaluable training package which enables businesses to address inclusivity, equality and respect within their workplace. The Charter also highlights the need for greater awareness and understanding of LGBTQIA+ issues.
LGBTQIA+ Youth Services
We operate LGBTQIA+ youth groups for those aged 12-25 in several locations across Northern Ireland. They are fun, safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ young people where they can be themselves.
Advocacy, Campaigning, Policy and Volunteering
We advocate for our community, campaign for change, advise on policy, and offer volunteering opportunities for those who wish to get involved.
LGBTQIA+ Awareness Training
This training is for all schools, community groups, businesses and public bodies who wish to increase their awareness of the LGBTQIA+ community and the issues this community faces. This is a great opportunity to discuss language, best practice, and offers a space to ask questions in a safe and constructive environment.
LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Schools’ Charter
The LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Schools’ Charter is an invaluable programme of events, activities and targets which enable schools to address inclusivity, equality and respect within an educational environment. Through proactive measures your school will improve the experience of LGBTQIA+ students, while promoting inclusivity for all.
LGBTQIA+ Switchboard / Helpline
Have you ever had something you need to talk about, perhaps something you need to get off your chest? Maybe you need information relating to your sexual orientation or gender identity? Perhaps you feel isolated, or maybe just want to know that there are other lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans people in the world. Our trained volunteers will provide a listening ear & can help you to explore your options.
LGBTQIA+ Domestic Abuse Project
The Domestic Abuse Project addresses violence against women and girls and is aimed at women and girls age 12 years + from the LBTI community (Lesbian, Bi-sexual, Trans or Intersex) community who have experienced or are at risk of domestic or sexual violence and abuse.
LGBTQIA+ Community Development & Events
Cara-Friend is generously funded by Belfast City Council to run our Community Development Project for Belfast. This involves organising community events each year, advocating on behalf of the LGBTQIA+ community for the promotion of inclusivity, communications, training, and exploring the history of the LGBTQIA+ community.
MORE FROM CARA-FRIEND
We offer support through our different services including LGBTQIA+ Switchboard NI, Cara-Friend LGBTQIA+ Youth and our Mental Health & Wellbeing Project.
All of the services we provide are completely confidential.
Latest Blog Posts
CORONAVIRUS UPDATE
- Posted by Declan Meehan
- On March 16, 2020
The Cara-Friend offices are currently closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, our team are working from home and can be contacted by...
Remembering Lyra McKee
- Posted by Declan Meehan
- On April 19, 2019
The LGBTQI+ community has been shocked, saddened and angered to hear of the death of Lyra McKee. She was a beloved and...
Educating the Educators Sessions in 7 Locations
- Posted by Declan Meehan
- On March 1, 2019
Educating the Educators returns to Northern Ireland for Spring 2019. Over the course of March and April we will offer free capacity...
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The 2024 Belfast hub of OUTing The Past returns to the Ulster Museum, Belfast on Saturday 27th April from 10am - 1pm.![]()
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This year's wonderful range of speakers will cover a variety of topics detailed below. All are welcome and the event is completely free.![]()
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Afterwards there will be a Story Discovery Workshop led by Queer Britain from 2pm - 5pm, exploring the importance of our individual stories and how they help form the UK's national LGBTQ+ history. Spaces are limited so please book in advance via: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/amplifying-lgbtq-voices-northern-ireland-workshop-tickets-861009300997 ![]()
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This annual event is part of Cara-Friend's Community Development Programme generously funded by Belfast City Council, for which we are incredibly grateful.
