OutREACH Cumbria was formed as a part-time project in 1993, developed as an extension of an existing Gay Telephone Helpline, and the Local Health Authority. Sexual health for gay, bisexual men and men who had sex with men formed the initial focus of the project. This focus had changed and by 2000 the project provided a broader range of support, advice and information services to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community the project had developed 1- to -1 sessions and counselling. OutREACH Cumbria designed and facilitated awareness raising training and sexual orientation workshops.
In 2001 OutREACH Cumbria secured funding to provide a group to support young LGB people in 2003 this included young Trans and those questioning their sexual orientation. Due to changes in the health service, the support for the project was withdrawn and In 2005 the LGBT project was closed.
OutREACH Cumbria was revived as a name only in October 2008 and began to act as a LGBT consultancy to a number of statutory organisations as a part of their equality duties and provided support for their equality impact assessments.
2011 and the future of OutREACH Cumbria as an LGBT project is changing and we are looking to develop services for the LGBT community in North Cumbria, whist maintaining its position as a central ‘hub' supporting other LGBT groups and projects across the county.
To achieve our aims we are looking for volunteers to form a steering group to help OutREACH Cumbria. We would like to hear from people who have some spare time, enthusiasm, or are simply passionate that the LGBT community in Cumbria deserves the right to be part of the wider community. If you have organisational, funding planning or other useful skills and experience and are interested in becoming involved and support OutREACH Cumbria please contact Richard on 07896 250662 or email: outreachcumbria@live.co.uk