A new group is being launched to support LGBT teenagers across the region.

Created by Slough Young People’s Service, of Slough Borough Council, the new group ‘Spectrum’ aims to support LGBT teenagers internally as a peer support group, and externally as a campaigning body and through organising local events.

Spectrum is aimed at members of the LGBT community aged between 13-19.

Project lead Carla Conte, 34, a Youth Advisor from Wexham, said: “Lots of young people we’ve spoken to have had issues surrounding bullying. There is not much reporting of anti – LGBT hate crimes. Even on the doorstep of London, lots of people are struggling to get support.“This group is aimed at increasing the confidence and self-esteem of our members.”

The group has already been running for two years, but is planned to be overhauled with a new structure and programme. The revamped Spectrum will be kick-started at a launch event on August 30. Anybody who wishes to join is encouraged to sign up and attend. The only requirement for joining is a short one-to-one with the project lead.

“The interview is just to make sure, as workers, that we are aware of any particular vulnerabilities to be aware of. It’s also just to put them at ease, since many are shy about coming to a big group. It’s super informal.”

Slough Young People’s Service explained that the new group was needed because “more than half (55%) of lesbian, gay, and bisexual young people experience homophobic bullying in Britain’s schools. One in three gay pupils who experience homophobic bullying change their plans for future education because of it.”

In addition to the other work the group does, there will be opportunities for members to involve themselves in the British Youth Council, away trips, and celebrations for LGBT History Month, which is held throughout February each year.

For information contact Miss Conte on 01753 875510 or her at email carla.conte@slough.gov.uk